ARE YOU CLEANING YOUR DRYER LINT SCREEN FILTER LIKE YOU SHOULD?
When it comes to doing laundry, most of us are familiar with the basic steps: sort clothes, load the washing machine, transfer to the dryer, and voilà, you’re done. But there’s an often-overlooked step in the process that can make a significant impact on both your laundry routine and your energy bills: cleaning your dryer filter. While it might seem like a small task, rinsing your dryer filter under water can have numerous benefits for your clothes, your dryer’s efficiency, and even the environment. Most of the time, you can not even tell if your lint screen is dirty. Dryer sheets have a wax film to them and it can transfer on your lint screen without you even knowing or seeing it! In this blog, Central Ohio Appliance Repair will explore why this simple step is worth your attention.
- Improved Drying Efficiency
The primary purpose of a dryer filter is to catch lint, fibers, and debris that inevitably shed from your clothes during the drying process. Over time, this accumulation can clog the filter, obstructing airflow and causing your dryer to work harder to achieve the same results. This reduced airflow can lead to longer drying times, which not only wastes energy but also takes a toll on the lifespan of your dryer.
By rinsing your dryer filter under water regularly, you prevent the buildup of lint and debris. A quick rinse clears away trapped particles, allowing air to flow freely through the filter. This, in turn, improves your dryer’s efficiency, reduces drying times, and ultimately saves you money on energy bills.
- Enhanced Fabric Care
Have you ever noticed that your clothes feel rougher after being dried? This can be attributed to the accumulation of lint on fabrics during the drying process. Lint is made up of tiny fibers that break away from your clothing and collect in the filter. When these fibers are not removed, they can stick to your clothes, causing them to lose their softness and smoothness.
Rinsing your dryer filter helps keep your clothes lint-free and ensures they maintain their original texture. By preventing lint from re-depositing onto your fabrics, you’ll find that your clothes feel softer and more comfortable to wear, enhancing the overall quality of your laundry.
- Fire Safety Concerns
You might be surprised to learn that neglected dryer filters can pose a fire hazard. Lint is highly flammable, and when it accumulates in the filter, it increases the risk of a lint fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 3,000 dryer fires occur each year, causing injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.
Regularly rinsing your dryer filter is a simple preventive measure that significantly reduces the risk of lint fires. By eliminating the lint buildup, you minimize the chances of an ignition source coming into contact with flammable particles, making your home safer for you and your loved ones.
- Eco-Friendly Practice
In today’s world, adopting eco-friendly habits is essential. Rinsing your dryer filter aligns with this sustainability mindset. When your dryer operates more efficiently due to a clean filter, it uses less energy to dry your clothes. This reduced energy consumption not only saves you money but also decreases your carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier planet.
Conclusion
Incorporating the habit of rinsing your dryer filter under water might seem like a small step, but its impact is far-reaching. From improved drying efficiency and enhanced fabric care to fire safety precautions and eco-friendliness, there are numerous reasons to make this practice a regular part of your laundry routine. By taking a few moments to rinse your dryer filter every 6 loads, you’re not only preserving your clothes and your appliance but also contributing to a more energy-efficient and sustainable lifestyle. So, the next time you toss a load into the dryer, remember the power of rinsing and the positive effects it can bring to your laundry and beyond.
If you’re unsure about any aspect of diagnosing or fixing the problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to Central Ohio Appliance Repair for service or contact us about our Maintenance Package. Our Maintenance Packages will not only keep your dryer in tip top shape, but also extend its lifespan, ensuring that it continues to serve you well for years to come.
If you have a question call us 614-863-2773
Click here to watch a step by step video on how to clean your filter