Dryer Maintenance

The single biggest factor limiting succesful drying is air-flow, or the lack of it. Proper venting and regular cleaning of venting systems is essential to the efficient oper- ation of any dryer. Without air-flow, moisture cannot evaporate from clothing and the heating function of the dryer may run hotter than allowed or is safe. For this reason alone it is imperative the vent be checked periodically and lint build-up removed to ensure safe and reliable operation. Properly maintained, automatic clothes dryers are a welcome convenience to any household. Poorly maintained dryers are the cause of numerous house-fires, (1 out of 22 home-fires) some which prove to be deadly. NFPA
In normal operation most clothes dryers require very little maintenance. After a number of years of dependable service one can expect to begin replacing wear items such as belts, seals, bearings, door switches and the like. In tandem with vent maintenance it is recommended to have the dryer's internal air passages cleaned and th einside of the cabinet cleaned to remove any lint build-up which could burn if ignited by a spark. The temperature control can be verified by measuring the exhaust temperature. Most dyrers have an internal Hi-Limit thermostat which will turn off the heat if the temperature goes above its safety range. Usually 230-250 degrees F.