Dryer Vent Cleaning and Fire Safety Tips from the Chicago Wizard

Failure to clean and maintain dryer vent systems is a leading cause of dryer fires in the US. According the to the US Fire Administration, dryer vent fires cost more than $88 million, cause more than 400 injuries, and result in an average of 15 deaths annually. Consumers need to be made aware of the importance of dryer vent cleaning to ensure dryer fire prevention.

Other causes of dryer fires include improper venting material, storage of combustible material near the dryer and mechanical or electrical problems.

To enhance the safety of family and home, consumers should take the following actions, to prevent dryer fires:

· Keep a working fire extinguisher, designed for use in the laundry area
· Be sure to test fire alarms, replacing batteries frequently
· Clean lint traps before and after each use
· Wash lint screens monthly with soap and water to prevent residue buildup
· Refrain from drying fabrics soaked in combustible substances
· Store flammable items far away from your dryer
· Have necessary dryer vent repair done so the system is up to code according to city, state, and manufacturer criteria
· Use only solid metal material for dryer vent systems
· Be sure dryer vent systems are as straight and short as possible to prevent buildup at elbows
· Frequently check dryer vent cover, outside, for signs of blockage, freezing, or damage
· Be sure to have dryer vent cleaning and inspections seasonally
· Develop a fire safety/emergency plan for the household


Mory Matias is the owner of Dryer Vent Wizard in Chicago, Illinois. Mory services North Side Chicago and North Shore Suburbs, Cook and Lake Counties, Evanston, Wilmette, Glenview, Deerfield, Gurnee, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire and neighboring cities and communities.Dryer Vent Wizard professionally inspects and cleans clothing dryers for homeowners and in commercially-owned buildings. Poorly maintained dryer vents are fire hazards and cause clothes dryers to cost substantially more to operate.