According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), dryers and washing machines cause an average of 15,970 fires each year, with dryers causing 92% of them. Property damage is estimated to be at approximately $200 million due to dryer fires. Too break it down further, with the higher heat discharge from electric electric dryers, they are more than 2.5 times more likely than gas dryers to cause fires.

Generally dryer fires start from one of the following places:

Lint Built-Up and Clogged Ducts:

The most common cause of dryer fires is the result of lint build-up in the dryer and exhaust duct. When dryers are not cleaned on a regular basis the lint build-up restricts airflow, and when the airflow is restricted, clothes take longer to dry. Clogs and restrictions prevent the air from circulating and the dryer can't sense the normal operating temperature and so it continues to rise. This is the first indication that there is a problem.

Dryer Ventilation:

If heavier clothes, towels, and bedding are taking a long time to dry or clothes feel hotter than usual at the end of the cycle, a clogged dryer vent exhaust is likely the problem.

Overloading the dryer with too much clothing or bedding materials can also cause dryer fires. The overloaded dryer cant move air through the drum and causes it to overheat and start to burn.

Faulty installations also can cause serious fire hazards. If the dryer vent exhausts into areas other than the exterior of the home, mold buildup and decreased air quality can occur.

Dryer Fire Prevention Tips:

• If you notice clothes taking longer to dry or that are very hot to the touch, check for a plugged vent and clean out any lint.
• Never leave your dryer running when you leave the house.
• Clean the entire duct system yearly.
• Clean the lint filter after every load. -Do not overload the dryer.

Recommendation by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) is to have your dryer vent cleaned yearly.

1. It takes longer than usual to dry your clothes.

2. You notice a burning smell.

3. Your clothes are very hot to the touch at the end of a load.

4. You can see lint or debris in the dryer hose or around the outside dryer flap.

5. You haven't cleaned out your vents in over a year.

The most common benefits of cleaning your dryer vent.

REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRES:
Removing excess lint from the dryer keeps homes safer and reduces the risk of errant fires starting from within the duct.

IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY:
A clear duct ensures the dryer works in peak condition for as long as possible.

FASTER DRYING TIMES AND REDUCED WEAR AND TEAR:
Ensuring the dryer vent is clear and that the machine is running efficiently will dry clothes thoroughly with a single cycle and last for many more years.

IMPROVE AIR QUALITY:
Regular vent cleaning reduces the amount of debris caught in the duct and ensures better airflow, long-term air quality and the breeding of mold spores.

ALLOWS FOR EARLY TROUBLESHOOTING:
By cleaning the dryer vent regularly, professionals can check for tears in the duct and clogs in the vent. It also allows any other issues to be found and addressed before problems arise.