Housekeeping · 건조기 화재 예방

Dryer Lint and Vent Safety: 6 Checks to Reduce Fire Risk

Clear the lint screen before and after each load, check for a crushed vent and proper outdoor exhaust, and use a professional for internal duct service.

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Wikimedia Commons · Atomicdragon136 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0; original photograph, unmodified · CC BY 3.0 ↗

Based on U.S. Fire Administration advice. Vented dryers differ from condenser and heat-pump dryers; your own manual takes priority. The photograph is a generic lint-screen example.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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1. Before each load, remove lint from the screen by hand. Never operate the dryer without its lint screen installed.
2. Remove lint after the cycle too, and reinsert the screen securely. Wet cleaning is only for models whose instructions permit it.
3. With the machine off and cool, visually check the exhaust hose behind it for crushing or kinks. Do not force the appliance aside.
4. If safely accessible, verify the exterior vent flap opens and exhausts air while running. Do not climb or dismantle ducting.
5. Stop using the dryer if drying time suddenly increases, you smell burning, or overheating is suspected, and request inspection.
6. Have internal duct cleaning, damaged vent replacement and gas-dryer repairs done by qualified service personnel.

U.S. Fire AdministrationAppliance and Electrical Fire Safety ↗Agency explains dryer fire hazards, filter cleaning, direct wall-outlet use and electrical care.U.S. Fire AdministrationBasement and Garage Fire Safety ↗Agency recommends keeping dryer lint filters clean and having vent ductwork cleaned yearly.Wikimedia CommonsDryer lint.jpg, original and CC BY 3.0 ↗Original inspected: Atomicdragon136, 12 March 2018, CC BY 3.0.Wikimedia CommonsCommons external reuse and hotlink policy ↗Source permits hotlinking subject to each file's licence and credit requirements.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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