How to Control Lint in Dryers
Lint buildup in dryers can lead to many problems, from increased drying times to causing a fire. Routine cleaning and maintenance is necessary to keep any dryer running properly. Cleaning lint traps before each use and checking your dryer's exhaust hose once a month will prevent clogs. Following these simple steps can not only ensure that your dryer is safe, it can also save you money on your utility bills. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check the pockets on your clothing before loading it into the dryer. Tissues and other paper that has gone through the washing machine often comes out of pockets in the dryer and gets sucked into the lint trap, which can cause large buildups.
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Use a lint roller to remove any obvious lint stuck to the outside of your clothing. The less lint on your clothes, the less lint in your dryer.
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Clean the lint trap on the dryer before every use. If you are likely to forget, clean it after every use as well so you won't start the dryer without a clean lint trap. Not only will a clean lint trap work better, your dryer will also heat more efficiently, allowing it to dry your clothes faster using less energy.
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Check and clean the exhaust hose behind the dryer at least once a month. This large hose is connected to the wall from the dryer, and it can become clogged with lint. A clogged hose can be a major fire hazard. Consider checking your exhaust hose more often if you do a large amount of laundry.
Before removing the hose from the dryer, turn off the power to the room. Then unhook the exhaust hose from the dryer and the wall. Use a dryer vent brush to clean out the hose and inspect it for clogs or tears. Replace the hose if it is torn or worn out. Reattach the hose to the wall and dryer and turn the power back on.
Make sure there is enough room behind the dryer so the hose isn't pinched together. A pinched hose can keep the dryer from functioning properly and can allow for lint buildup.
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