To achieve optimal air flow and reduce lint build-up, here are a few tips and tricks.
- Keep your dryer as lint-free as possible by cleaning the lint screen or filter before or after each load of clothes.
- A dryer should not be operated if it does not have a lint screen or filter. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer, where lint can be trapped.
- Hire a licensed appliance professional to clean the interior of the dryer chassis and inspect the rollers, belt, motor and heating system annually.
- If you notice the drying time is longer, clean dryer vents thoroughly to ensure proper airflow.
- Replace plastic, vinyl and aluminum foil venting with metal vents.
- Keep your exhaust pipe as short as possible and try to avoid bending the pipe which can restrict airflow.
- Keep the exhaust duct in good condition by disconnecting, cleaning and inspecting the duct on a regular basis. If the exhaust duct opening outside the house is low to the ground, make sure to check it monthly for leaves, birds’ nests and other debris.
- The exhaust should only vent to the outside of the house – never to the attic or crawlspace. It’s best to use a flap vent that will open when the dryer is in use and close when it is off.
- Do not dry anything on which there is anything flammable such as alcohol, gasoline or oils. Flammable substances give off vapours that could ignite.
- Read the manufacturers’ product manual