Dryer fires usually begin in the dryer duct when the motor overheats due to restricted air flow caused by lint build up. About 40 percent of dryer lint removed from your laundry escapes the lint filter and gets into the back of the dryer chassis and in the dryer vent system.When dryer lint builds up and clogs the dryer vent system, heat, and moisture are unable to escapt the dryer drum and laundry takes longer to dry. The dryer works harder, using more energy and increasing the risk of appliance failure.
Eventually, the dryer will throw a spark that ignites the combustible lint. The draft from the dryer pulls the fire into the duct where more link becomes fuel. A dryer fire spreads quite rapidly causing major property damage, injury, and death for many Americans each year.
Over 15,000 dryer fires occur each year, even more now than chimney fires. Most dryer fires are caused by failure to clean dryer vents. This is why some fire departments and insurance companies now require that dryer vents be cleaned and inspected annually.
Gas dryers also pose a carbon monoxide threat because your dryer vent is responsible for removing gas by-products from your home. All fuel burning appliances require proper venting to the outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
In addition to your regular cleaning of lint trap, you also should make sure to have a professional come out at least once a year to inspect and do a complete cleaning.
