How can your Dryer be more Efficient? by Handymen Montreal

Clothes dryer machine… a fire hazard in your home!

I recently wrote about washing machine hoses, type of hoses to use, and keeping an eye on them to prevent water damage. (read the article here) There is also the exhaust duct of your dryer that you should clean to prevent fires that occur much more often than you think.

This duct located behind your dryer extracts hot air to the outside. Over time, this pipe becomes clogged with the accumulation of lint. As a result, your machine is less efficient, takes longer to dry the laundry, increases your electricity bill, but above all the machine overheats and can create a fire.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 92% of home fires are caused by poorly maintained and clogged dryers. It makes you think.

It is imperative to clean the dryer filter and drum after each cycle. The inside of the duct located behind the machine should be cleaned at least once a year. Since this duct is relatively short simply insert the vacuum hose to remove the lint. For the duct leading outward, this requires specialized equipment for deep cleaning.

It is strongly recommended to install for your dryer a rigid or semi-rigid metal duct rather than vinyl or aluminum accordion type ducts. Also check that the exhaust duct to the outside is not obstructed. The flaps of the vent hood should open freely when the dryer is running.

Spring is coming soon, you could have an exterior clothesline installed or a drying rack if you are in a condo. This alternative could save you up to $200 a year on your electricity bill.