1. It’s important to clean the lint filter prior to each use of the dryer. Adding this step to your laundry routine will aid in the prevention of lint buildup up in the dryer exhaust system, and down the road, a possible dryer fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association there are an estimated 15,970 home fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year.

2. Make sure the dryer exhaust duct behind the dryer is not kinked or crushed. The space behind your dryer should be sufficient as to provide adequate room for the transition duct to make its bends with minimal deflection and restrictions.

3. Clear out combustibles. Move any flammables, such as cleaning supplies, far away from your dryer. Also regularly sweep out dust in the areas around and underneath your dryer.

4. Opt to replace foil or plastic ducts with code compliant aluminum ducts. Research shows that flexible foil or plastic ducts can sag and lead to lint buildup at low points.

5. Read the tags on garments. If the care label reads ‘tumble dry low’, don’t choose a high heat setting. Also use caution with certain items like bathroom mats, padded bras and bibs—they may contain rubber that shouldn’t be exposed to hot temperatures.

6. Exercise extra caution with flammable liquids. Wash clothing stained with volatile chemicals more than once—and opt to line dry over machine dry.

7. Use your clothes to diagnose problems. Clothes that are still damp or are extra hot to the touch after a normal dry cycle are a telltale sign that something is wrong.

Before doing the next load, check for a clogged duct and clean out any lint. Also check the exterior wall vent for any lint buildup and clean the vent and surrounding area as needed.

8. Don’t dry and dash. Turn off your dryer if you need to step out during the laundry cycle.

9. Give the outdoor vent a peek. Make sure that the outdoor vent flap isn’t covered by lint, snow or yard debris.

Did You Know?

DryerFlex is the material of choice when it comes to a safe dryer exhaust system. Its smooth interior reduces lint buildup and allows the dryer to perform at peak efficiency. DryerFlex fire-rated duct is as flexible as "slinky" foil flex yet stronger than semi-rigid aluminum, making installation easier and every laundry room safer.

Quite simply, DryerFlex provides the best functionality of the old transition ducts without any of the defects. DryerFlex always maintains its four inch diameter whether fully extended or compressed. It's strong aluminum ribbon protects against crushing and flamespread. Choose DryerFlex for exhaust duct that's safe, efficient and easy to install.

To learn more about DryerFlex, visit the product page.

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