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Dryer Problems?

Everyone knows (or should) that it is very important to clean the lint filter in their clothes dryer after every use. This act ensures that the dry lint doesn’t catch on fire from the high temperatures created by the dryer’s heater. What you may not know is that cleaning the dryer filter also helps the dryer itself, by providing air for the heater to work correctly and efficiently.

Like most of us, you also probably use dryer sheets; Bounce, Snuggle, Downy, etc. They give your clothes a fresh scent and help with static cling. Unfortunately, that’s where many dryer problems lie. The next time you clean your lint filter, take it over to the sink and let some water run through it. Surprise! The filter fills up with water, right? It doesn’t go through at all does it? Dryer sheets create a film over the mesh of the filter, which starves the heater unit of air. You can't see the film, but it's there. The best way to keep your dryer working properly for a long time is to take the filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or similar brush) at least once every six months. This will also help lower your electric bill, because your dryer will run more efficiently. This small task completed once every six months (when you replace your smoke detector batteries) will dramatically extend the life of your dryer.