Front Vs. Back Dryer Lint Trap Efficiency

Dryer lint traps are located in the path of the air as it flows through the machine. Some dryer manufacturers place the lint trap in the front and some in the back; both designs allow for the way the air flows in that model of dryer. Because of this, the location of the lint trap has no effect on whether it works well or not. There are, however, some other issues to consider with regard to dryer lint traps.

Function

Dryers produce lint that is knocked off your clothes as they dry. This lint follows the air flow and is deposited in the lint trap so it doesn't clog up the machinery of the dryer.

Types

Generally, there are two types of dryer lint traps. Some dryers, such as those manufactured by General Electric, have the lint trap below the door opening, where you can easily see it when you take out the clothes. Other dryers, including Maytag dryers, have a hinged flap at the back of the top of the dryer that you open to access the lint trap.

Considerations

Though both types of lint traps work equally well, there are some benefits you should take into account. When the lint trap is below the door, you are more likely to see it and remember to empty it each time you run the dryer. Some models of dryers have a sensor that will tell you if the lint filter needs to be cleaned. Another benefit of having the trap in the door is that you can use the entire surface of the top of your dryer to store things without anything getting in the way of the lint trap.

Effects

When you forget to clean the lint trap, your dryer efficiency will decrease significantly. You may find that the clothes take much longer to dry, and you will use more electricity.

Misconceptions

You may be under the impression that the lint trap contains all of the lint produced by running your dryer. But that's not true: Most lint traps don't trap every bit of lint. Some lint will get into the vent hose; clean it out a couple of times a year. There are kits available for purchase that will help you do this. The longer your vent hose is, the more important it is to clean it out. Lint can also build up inside, near the machinery of the dryer, where it could cause problems or even cause a fire. A dryer technician can remove this lint for you.

Warning

Some brands of dryer sheets leave a film behind on the mesh of the lint trap. This film can cause the lint trap to keep air from flowing through it, which has the same effect as not cleaning it. If your lint trap is clean and the dryer is not drying correctly, test the lint trap by running water through it. If it holds water, scrub it with some soapy water and a small, stiff brush (like an old toothbrush) to clean the film off. Check with your dryer manufacturer or appliance service center about ordering a replacement lint trap if necessary.

References

• Dryer Buying Gude
• Tips on Saving Money on Clothes Drying
• Energy Tip: Lint be gone