How Does a Fire Start in a Dryer?
Thousands of home fires are caused by dryers every year, resulting in property damage and endangering lives. According to the United States Fire Administration, around 3,000 dryer fires occur annually in the country.
The primary cause is lint accumulation in the dryer or its ventilation system. Lint, a highly flammable material, can ignite upon contact with heat sources inside the machine. Besides flames, these fires may also release toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, increasing the risk of severe poisoning.
Understanding the causes, warning signs, and preventive measures is essential to minimise this risk.
How Fires Start in Dryers
Fires can begin within the dryer or its ventilation system. Lint build-up in critical components like the collector, drum, heating element, or exhaust duct is a significant hazard.
Additional risk factors include:
- Incorrect installation
- Faulty wiring
- Blocked or damaged ventilation ducts
- Poor maintenance practices
These conditions substantially increase the likelihood of a fire.
Warning Signs of a Potential Fire
Certain warning signs may indicate that your dryer is at risk of catching fire. Common red flags include:
✔ Excessive lint accumulation around the appliance
✔ Overheating of the dryer or clothes after a cycle
✔ Prolonged drying times or incomplete drying
✔ Burning odours or smoke from the dryer or vents
✔ Malfunctions in the control system
Recognising and addressing these signs early can prevent small issues from escalating into full-blown emergencies.
How to Prevent Dryer-Related Fires
To reduce the risk of a dryer fire, follow these preventive steps:
🧹 Clean the lint filter before and after each use
🔍 Inspect the ventilation system regularly to remove obstructions
🔥 Replace plastic or foil ducts with metal ones, which are less flammable
🛑 Keep the area around the dryer free of flammable materials (e.g., clothes, boxes, chemicals)
👷 Schedule annual maintenance with a professional technician
Additionally, avoid storing items on or behind the dryer to prevent air circulation blockages.
What to Do in Case of a Fire
If a fire originates from your dryer, act quickly to minimise damage and protect your safety. Here are the key steps:
- Turn off the dryer and disconnect it from the power supply.
- Use a type ABC fire extinguisher if the fire is small and contained.
- Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire, as it can worsen the situation.
- Evacuate the home and call emergency services.
- Do not open the dryer door if there are flames inside, as introducing oxygen may intensify the fire.
Other Ways to Keep Your Home Safe
In addition to maintaining your dryer, adopt other safety measures to protect your home:
✅ Install smoke detectors near the laundry area and check them regularly
✅ Keep a fire extinguisher accessible and ensure everyone in the household knows how to use it
✅ Create and practice an evacuation plan with your family
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related accidents and improve household safety.