A clothes dryer has become an essential appliance in most households these days but, it’s also an appliance that could be very dangerous if not properly maintained. Many homes have been destroyed by fires that began in a clothes dryer, it’s clear then that dryer safety is something we all need to be conscious of. One aspect of the dryer we are going to look at is the dryer vent and consider why it is such an important part of dryer safety.
We are probably aware of how a dryer works, hot air blows through wet clothing as it gently spins in the drum. As clothing is tossed around in the dryer, water begins to evaporate from it and forms water vapor. This water vapor needs a way of exiting the machine and does this through the dryer vent. Another byproduct that comes off the clothing while it is drying is lint, this too must exit the dryer through the vent.
If there is no vent connected to the dryer what could happen? The water vapor will not be able to leave, and the dryer could start to overheat. Lint, which is very flammable, will also begin to accumulate in the dryer. All these factors increase the risk of the dryer bursting into flames.
So, it’s clear to see what a vital role the dryer vent plays to the safe running of the machine. Because washers and dryers are usually fitted into tight spaces we may not easily notice if the vent has become detached from the dryer. It is a good idea, then, to regularly check that the vent is still attached to the dryer and has not become damaged in any way.
