How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Clothes Dryer
Having a clothes dryer is a convenience that many homeowners can’t live without. However, the machine’s constant use and wear and tear can reduce its lifespan, eventually leading to costly repairs or replacement. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to increase the lifespan of your clothes dryer, including the following:
Clean the Lint Filter After Every Use
One of the most important things you can do to prolong the life of your clothes dryer is to clean the lint filter after every use. The lint filter catches lint and debris from your clothes as they dry, but if it becomes clogged, it can reduce airflow, causing the dryer to work harder and increasing the risk of a fire. Cleaning the lint filter only takes a few seconds, and it can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Leave Room for Proper Airflow
Another factor that can reduce the lifespan of your clothes dryer is a lack of proper airflow. Your dryer needs to have enough space around it to allow air to circulate properly. If you jam the machine into a tight space, it won’t be able to vent properly, which can cause it to overheat and potentially start a fire. Make sure you leave at least several inches of space around the dryer and avoid storing anything on top of it.
Inspect and Clean the Ductwork Regularly
Over time, lint and debris can build up inside the ductwork that carries hot, moist air out of the dryer. This can reduce airflow, increase energy consumption, and even cause a fire. To prevent this, it’s important to inspect and clean the ductwork at least once a year, or more often if you use your dryer frequently.
Don’t Overload the Dryer
One of the most common ways to reduce the lifespan of your clothes dryer is by overloading it. When you overload the machine, it has to work harder to dry your clothes, which can put a strain on its components and cause them to wear out more quickly. Instead, try to dry smaller loads of clothes more frequently to reduce wear and tear on the machine.
Use Proper Venting Materials
Finally, it’s important to use proper venting materials when installing your clothes dryer. This includes using a rigid or flexible metal venting duct instead of a plastic one, which can melt or catch fire. You should also avoid using screws or other fasteners that can catch lint or other debris, as well as using duct tape, which can dry out and peel off over time.
