Tips For Maintaining Your Dryer
Much like your washer, your dryer is the kind of appliance that you will only use a few times per week. Of course, when you do need it, you need your dryer to work properly. Any kind of problem or failure can have a number of minor to serious consequences. If you notice that your dryer is not drying your clothes, it is running extra long or if it shakes and moves while in use, you may need to give your dryer some extra attention. Of course, you can also help prevent excessive wear and damage by following these dryer maintenance tips.
Lint Screen
The lint screen on your dryer should be very easy to reach. This means that there really is no reason for you not to clean it out before each use. Remove the screen and clear out any bits and pieces. You can also give this compartment and screen a wipe with a fabric softener sheet.
Lint Housing Cavity
Beyond the screen, there is a housing cavity that also needs to be cleaned out. It might be difficult to reach all the way inside. This is where your vacuum cleaner will come to your rescue. Use the crevice attachment and suck out any lint that has built up inside.
Clean The Interior
Just like your washer can do with a clean every so often, so too can your dryer. All you need to do is make sure that your dryer is empty before giving it a good wipe inside with a rag dampened with soapy water. Make sure that you unplug the appliance before you begin. Leave the door on your dryer open once you are done. It’s a good idea to do this once a month.
Exterior Clean
Dryers have a way of attracting dust. It’s something about the heat that they generate that forces dust particles into the air. You will often find a build-up of dirt, moisture and lint under the dryer. This should be cleaned every three months or so.
Check The Level
Even if your dryer was perfectly level when installed, it’s not uncommon for these appliances to become wobbly. This is because they vibrate when the drum turns and this will take its toll no matter how perfectly you have the dryer installed. The best solution is to check your appliance regularly to make sure that it is level. If not, make the necessary adjustments. If you notice that your dryer is starting to shake, hop or walk, you should stop the cycle, check if it is level and adjust accordingly. Adjustments can be made to the four legs under the appliance and it does not take a technician to solve this problem.
Clean The Vent
Every dryer has a vent system that leads all that hot air away from the dryer and outside. If you notice a decrease in dryer performance, it could be due to partially clogged vents. Lint, dust and debris have a way of building up in these vents which can lead to a fire if not cleaned. In addition, if you have a large family or pets, this means that you will have to clean the vents more often. Both pet and human hair tend to find their way into the smallest of spaces and this includes your dryer vent. If you can, clean the vents yourself. Alternatively, you can hire a professional to get the job done. Again, this is something that needs to be done on a regular basis both for safety and performance reasons.
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