Could your dryer be a fire hazard? | PEMCO

When it comes to home fire prevention, one of the most overlooked risks is also one of the most common household appliances: the clothes dryer. According to national fire safety data, dryers are a leading cause of home fires, most often due to lint buildup and poor airflow. 

The good news? Homeowners and renters can significantly reduce the risk of dryer fires with a few simple DIY maintenance habits that also help appliances run more efficiently. 

Before getting started, check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for guidance specific to your machine. These general tips apply to most dryers and focus on keeping your home (and everyone in it) safer. 

Start with a safer dryer setup 

How your dryer is installed plays a major role in fire prevention. 

1. Make sure the dryer is level. A dryer that rocks or vibrates puts extra stress on moving parts and can cause excess friction and heat. Use a level and adjust the legs so it sits flat on the floor. 
2. Give it breathing room. Pull the dryer slightly away from the wall to ensure the vent hose isn’t crushed. Over time, even light pressure, like leaning against the dryer while folding laundry—can restrict airflow and increase heat buildup. 
3. Upgrade your vent hose. If your dryer uses a white or silver accordion-style hose, consider replacing it with smooth metal ducting (rigid or flexible). Smooth ducts trap far less lint, improving airflow and reducing fire risk. 
4. Eliminate lint traps inside the vent. Avoid using metal screws to connect duct sections. Lint easily catches on screw tips. Instead, use duct connectors secured with metal clamps or UL-rated foil tape to keep the interior smooth. 
5. Check vent connections regularly. A loose or disconnected hose can dump hot, humid air into walls or crawl spaces—creating moisture damage and hidden fire hazards. 

Keep lint from becoming a fire hazard 

Lint is extremely flammable. Regular cleaning is one of the most effective ways to help prevent dryer fires. 

After every load 

Clean the lint screen. The lint screen captures about 75% of lint from clothes. The rest travels into the vent system, where it can accumulate over time. 

Once a month 

Wash the lint screen. Residue from detergent and dryer sheets can block airflow even if the screen looks clean. Test it by running water through the screen—if water puddles, airflow is restricted. Wash with mild dish soap and warm water, then air-dry. 

Wipe down the drum. Use a damp, well-wrung cloth to remove residue that can interfere with airflow and heat distribution. 

Seasonally 

Inspect and clear the exterior vent. Lint can build up and harden on the vent flaps, preventing them from opening fully. 

• Winter: Make sure snow isn’t blocking the vent 
• Spring/Summer: Check for birds or insects nesting 
• Fall: Clear away leaves and debris 

Annually 

Schedule professional vent cleaning. Most households benefit from annual service, though large families or frequent blanket drying may require it more often. Warning signs include: 

• Clothes taking longer than normal to dry 
• Clothes coming out extremely hot 
• A musty or moldy smell 
• The dryer shutting off mid-cycle due to overheating 

Use your dryer with fire safety in mind 

Daily habits matter just as much as maintenance. 

Never run the dryer when you’re asleep or away from home. If a fire starts, early detection is critical. 

Avoid drying flammable or heavy items. Line-dry rubber-backed rugs, foam items, and athletic shoes. Cleaning rags that still smell like solvent after washing can be combustible. Rewash or air-dry them. 

Don’t overload the dryer. Overstuffed dryers restrict airflow, trap heat, and increase wear. Clothes should tumble freely. 

Dry similar-weight items together. Mixing heavy and lightweight items leads to uneven drying and longer run times, increasing heat exposure. 

Keep the door closed once the cycle starts. Adding wet clothes mid-cycle can confuse moisture sensors, causing over-drying and unnecessary heat buildup. 

Consider home warranty protection 

If you’re worried that your appliances will some day leave you on the hook for a big repair bill, consider home warranty coverage. PEMCO has partnered with Cinch to help homeowners worry less and live more. It takes just minutes to get a quote online, and as a PEMCO member, you’ll get the first month of your Cinch plan free.   

Prevention starts at home 

Dryer fires are largely preventable. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference. By setting up your dryer correctly, keeping it clean, and using it safely, homeowners and renters can reduce fire risk and help protect their homes, families, and belongings.