Tumble dryer fires in laundry rooms (2024)

FAQs

What is the main cause of tumble dryer fires? ›

Tumble dryers and washing machines contain powerful motors with fast moving parts that get very hot. If you don't clean and maintain your machine, excess fluff or lint can build up over time and catch fire. There are a number of warning signs to watch out for: Does your tumble dryer smell of burning?

Culprit #1: Lint.

Lint is the leading cause of dryer fires. It's highly flammable, and it's everywhere.

Ensure that lint filters in tumble dryers are cleaned before use and that lint is not allowed to accumulate in and around the appliance. Ensure that the 'cool down' cycle of the tumble dryer is adequate to reduce the temperature of the items. Items should not be removed from the dryer or piled/stacked while hot.

Generally, tumble dryers are safe products to use. The advice which Whirlpool give is good, general tumble dryer safety advice. Cleaning the filter after every use prevents fluff from building up and potentially combusting as it's heated. And you should never leave any appliance running unattended or overnight anyway.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that dryers and washing machines cause an average of 15,970 fires each year, with dryers causing 92% of them and an average of $200 million in property damage.

"The safest time to use electricals is when you are awake, and definitely in the house." When I talk to people in my community I am always amazed by how many people don't realise it's not safe to use appliances at night or when out of the home. You should never leave appliances on when you're out.

Most dryers and vent systems require cleaning every one to three years in order to maintain optimum efficiency and the highest level of safety. But how often your dryer vents need cleaning also depends on: Volume of laundry dried weekly. The total length of your dryer vent system.

Reduced Fire Hazard: The majority of dryer fires start when built-up lint near the motor, gas burners, or heating elements catch on fire. The fire then spreads to ignite lint in the vent pipe. Because heat pump dryers are ventless, that fire hazard is reduced.

Don't use tumble dryers overnight or while you are asleep. If possible, unplug or switch them off to avoid the risk of an electrical fault causing a fire. Don't leave the dryer unattended until the cycle has finished and the appliance has sufficiently cooled down. Don't overload plug sockets.

Can a tumble dryer catch fire when not in use? ›

A dryer can catch fire while it's not running if there are any problems in the dryer's electrical system. This may result in wires and components sparking when the unit has been shut down. Over time, lint buildup may cause heat sensors to get too hot, which could lead them to ignite the material.

If you stay, safely use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire by pointing it at the base of the fire and sweeping from side to side. If you're able to completely put out the fire, unplug the appliance—but only if you're certain the connections are not damaged.

You need to ensure that your condenser dryer is fitted in a well ventilated room to allow the warm air to escape the dryer. Due to the warm air coming from the dryer it may cause a rise in the temperature of the room.

One of the simplest appliances in your home, a well maintained tumble dryer should last for around 10 to 15 years (Daily Finance). Common yet fixable problems include: A tumble dryer that won't heat – which can be caused by a tripped thermostat.

More than 600 models of vented and condenser tumble dryers by Hotpoint, Indesit, Creda, Swan and Proline made between 2004 and 2015 could be affected.

Every year, firefighters across the country respond to around 13,820 home fires caused by clothes dryers, according to the latest figures from the National Fire Protection Association. About 27 percent of these fires are caused by an accumulation of lint, which can constrict the ductwork that expels hot air outside.

Reduced Fire Hazard: The majority of dryer fires start when built-up lint near the motor, gas burners, or heating elements catch on fire. The fire then spreads to ignite lint in the vent pipe. Because heat pump dryers are ventless, that fire hazard is reduced.

Common causes of a burning smell from a dryer include lint buildup or a failing thermostat, motor, or belt. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, appliances and electronics start 24,200 house fires yearly. About a third of fires related to dryers are caused by excess lint buildup, so it's time to investigate.

Lint buildup can also be ignited by heating elements, creating burning odors. Carefully vacuum the dryer interior and thoroughly remove stuck-on lint from rollers and fittings. This should resolve the issue if lint buildup was the problem. Another possibility is worn out parts like the drive belt or drum bearings.