9 Clothes Dryer Maintenance Tips

27 December 2019

Taking care of your appliances is the key to saving money, time, and effort. The clothes dryer maintenance is among essential major assistants in your household. While it works, you don’t notice it. When it breaks down, you face a disaster.

The life expectancy of an average dryer is about 13 years. However, the majority of these appliances last much less. The reason is the lack of proper operation and maintenance. It’s not enough to plug the unit in and forget about it. If the only thing you do for your dryer is clean the lint filter, your appliance is likely to demand repair in just a few years.

In this article, we’ll share top clothes dryer maintenance tips to keep your dryer working for as long as possible.

Here are the 9 Clothes Dryer Maintenance Tips:

1. Run Full Loads Only

The more you run your dryer the faster it will give out. It’s as easy as that. Since you are unlikely to limit the number of times you do laundry, you can at least add some efficiency to the process.

By ensuring you only run full loads, you don’t just extend the lifespan of your clothes dryer, you save energy as well. Don’t rush to do laundry when you have free time. Wait until a full load is available.

On the other hand, don’t overload the dryer. In the rush to finish laundry quicker, many homeowners overload washers and dryers. As a result, the motor strains, dryer becomes misbalanced and eventually stops functioning.

2. Opt for Professional Installation

With numerous DIY videos overwhelming the Internet, homeowners often opt for DIY appliance installation to save money. Even though installing a dryer may appear straightforward, it’s not as easy as it sounds.

You may not notice the mistakes you make during the process. They’ll become obvious after several uses. By that time, your dryer could already be damaged.

Proper venting is highly important for a clothes dryer. You would need to select the right material and size for the venting tube and install it properly. Meanwhile, you should make sure the appliance is perfectly balanced. It’s especially important if you are placing it on top of the washer.

3. Clean the Dryer Vent

The dryer vent is the most important part of your appliance. It needs regular maintenance. Ideally, you should hire professional technicians to check and clean the vent at least once a year. However, some owners do it on their own.

Cleaning the vent involves disconnecting it from the dryer. After that, you would need to use a long-handled attachment to ensure penetrability. Special dryer vent cleaning brushes exist to remove clogs.

Be careful about reinstalling the duct properly after the cleaning is done. If you fail to do it, the dryer won’t function. Consider hiring professional dryer vent cleaners to avoid mistakes. According to experts from Jacksonville appliance repair services, if ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, the dryer’s motor can burn out leading to costly repairs.

4. Limit the Number of Dryer Sheets

While dryer sheets are an excellent way to keep your clothes static-free and soft, they aren’t harmless. These products have a wax layer that melts when the dryer heats up. If you use too many of them, the wax settles on the appliance’s interior walls and clogs the venting system and the lint trap.

Removing this layer may be tough. No matter how many dryer sheets you use, it’s important to clean your dryer once a week even if you don’t see any dirt inside. Failure to clean the dryer regularly is the top cause of dryer-related fires in households.

5. Clear the Lint Trap

Lint trap is one of the most important parts of your clothes dryer maintenance tips. Cleaning it regularly is the key to the appliance’s longevity. Wipe the lint filter clean after EACH load. Even if you are planning to do two loads in a row, clean the trap between them.

At least once a week, remove the lint screen and vacuum the trap. You can use a brush to loosen the residue.

Every one or two months, remove the lint filter and soak it in warm soapy water for about an hour or so. This can help remove wax, which appears after using dryer sheets and residue that settles after using a fabric softener.

6. Inspect the Appliance Weekly

A visual inspection of the dryer can help prevent damages. Make sure no moisture is trapped around the door seal. If there is any, wipe it off gently. In fact, you can wipe the door after each load is done to prevent mold formation and bacteria growth.

When checking the appliance, pay special attention to the doors seals. If they are cracked, ripped or damaged, the dryer is struggling to maintain the right temperatures. It may be straining the motor and overusing electricity. Replacing door seals is much easier and cheaper than repairing the motor.

7. Listen to it Work

Dryer

One of the first signs of dryer problems is the change in its operating noise. If you hear that something seems off, turn the appliance off immediately and check what’s happening inside. The reason for the change of sound could be overstuffing dryer with clothing or a sleeve caught up in an improperly installed lint trap.

If everything seems to be in order, but the dryer continues to make strange noises, call professional technicians.

8. Check Exterior Vents

Every month or so inspect the exterior vent of your dryer. While the appliance is working, go outside and check if the air is flowing freely through the vent. If something seems wrong, the pipe may be clogged.

If you have a plastic vent, consider replacing it with a metal one. A plastic vent is a fire hazard.

9. Find a Professional Repair Service

Some clothes dryer maintenance tasks require an expert’s assistance. Spend some time looking for a reliable repair service before anything breaks down. Knowing whom to call in case of an emergency could prevent further damage to your dryer.

Start following the above clothes dryer maintenance tips today, and your dryer will serve you for at least a decade.

Read Also:

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Budget Friendly Home Improvement Hacks To Save Your Pockets

Home improvement is a big deal now, with more people embracing their creativity and letting it show in the places they live. This has led to the rise of incredible trends and hacks that provide the perfect opportunity for people to work in their homes. However, with all this development, it also gets confusing and daunting for some people. This is mainly because they have no idea where to start or some of the hacks they can include in different areas. These hacks are meant to be easily doable tasks that will transform your space when implemented. We’ve categorized these hacks in terms of placement and application. Some of them include: Floors In the home, floors play a big role in how the home looks and the general style you’ll be working with. A few tweaks here and there can completely change the look of your floors and add style and character. Some of the most versatile hacks to include for your flooring include: Peel And Stick Tiles When it comes to finding the perfect flooring for that annoying red floor or just need a new look, peel and stick tiles will do the trick. These tiles are amazing given that you can easily install them yourself. They are designed to give off the illusion of regular tiles without having to deal with grout, glue, and other tedious processes. You can get them in different colors, styles, and patterns making them the perfect option. Replacing Your Tile Grout When dealing with tiles for your flooring, you may find that the grout may get stained and turn to a different color which becomes hard to clean. However, you have the option of replacing the grout with a new one in the same color or a different one. Adding A New Finish This is especially a great idea if you are dealing with wooden flooring. With this, it is easier to add a new finish when needed to give the floors a new and vibrant look. Lighting One of the most understated hacks is the ability to switch out your light fixtures and improve the overall look significantly. Most people don’t know what role lighting plays in your space. You need to improve your lighting situation, which will give your space more life. To make it more appealing, consider getting light fixtures that feature some detail and a unique design. Additionally, you could also include under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen featuring the use of custom led lights. You also have the option of choosing to go with statement chandeliers, floor lamps, wall lights, and pendant lights among others. When it comes to lighting, you are spoilt for choice and can easily improve your space. Walls Adding some style to your walls is another great way to improve the overall look of your home. For this, you have a few options to choose from that are easy to work with and get quality results. They include: Adding a Fresh Coat of Paint Paint is a great easy way to get a different look when working on your walls. With this, you have the option of working with a variety of colors depending on the vibe you are going for. Additionally, you could paint one wall a different color and have that as your accent wall. This will improve the look of your room significantly. Adding A Wallpaper Wallpapers provide a layout, especially if you don’t want to do a paint job on your walls. They come in different types, patterns, and designs to ensure that they cater to everyone’s needs. With this, you can choose to cover all your walls or use them on one wall that will serve as your accent wall. Hanging Art Art is another great way to bring your taste and style into your home. For this, you can create your art piece or purchase one made by another artist. Entryway When it comes to your entryway, the first thing you need to consider is your storage options. Once you get into the house, where do your shoes, bag, coat, and keys go? Having a station where all these items can be kept will keep the home tidy and add a great design aspect to your space. Additionally, you can also add other decor items to make your entryway arrangement more visually appealing. Patio When it comes to dealing with the outdoors, one of the most effective ways to change it is by adding a seating area. Be creative with this and go for something that portrays who you are. Don’t be too rigid and only stick to what’s normal. Find what works for you and add it to your space. Play around with colors and create a cozy space to relax with family and friends. Greenery Adding some green aspects to your home is an amazing way to improve the look and add some character. The best part about adding greenery to your space is that it will help improve air circulation. When working with greenery, you need to take the time to water them to ensure they are healthy at all times. You could also opt for fake plants, given that they will add the same look and style. Adding Budget-Friendly Feng-Shi To Home-Decor Are you looking to bring more balance and good vibes into your home without breaking the bank? Feng Shui is all about creating harmony in your living space, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to make it happen. With just a few budget-friendly changes, you can invite positive energy, or "Chi," into your home and make it a calming, welcoming space. Clear The Clutter The first and easiest Feng Shui tip: declutter! It’s amazing how much difference a tidy room can make. When you get rid of the excess, you’re not only creating physical space, but you're also allowing the energy to flow freely. Take a walk around your home and ask yourself: Do I really need this? Less clutter equals more clarity and positive energy. Maximize Natural Light Good lighting is key to great Feng Shui. Natural light boosts the energy in any room, so open up those curtains and let the sunlight pour in. If you’re working in a space that doesn’t get much natural light, don’t worry. You can place mirrors strategically to reflect and amplify what little sunlight you have. Mirrors are like energy boosters! Bring in Some Green Plants are a staple in Feng Shui. They not only clean the air but also represent life, growth, and vitality. Even a small potted plant can make a huge difference. If you’re not exactly a plant person (hello, brown thumbs!), opt for easy-to-care-for plants like succulents or snake plants. And don’t worry; artificial plants can also work if they look realistic. Use Soft, Calming Colors You don’t need to repaint your entire house to improve the flow of energy. Start by adding calming colors like soft greens, blues, or neutrals in small touches, think cushions, throws, or wall art. These tones promote peace and relaxation, which is exactly what you want in a balanced space. Arrange Furniture With Intention Did you know that where you place your furniture can affect the energy in a room? Try to arrange your furniture so that you can see the door from where you’re sitting or sleeping. It promotes a feeling of safety and control. Plus, don’t block pathways with furniture, as it interrupts the flow of energy. Ready to try it out? Let Feng Shui transform your space! Improve Your Living Space! Investing in your home and interior design is essential to ensure that you are content with your living space. This is something you can do by implementing a few hacks here and there. Take your time to go through them and add them to your space one at a time. Transformation is a gradual process which means you’ll need to keep at it until you get to your desired outcome. Read Also: How To Increase The Value Of Your Home Important Things to Know Before Starting a Home Improvement Project Home Sweet Home Improvement: How to Find the Best Home Improvement Loans

Why to Choose Stamped Concrete for the Hardscape Elements of Your Property?

Whether you’re planning out the build of a new property or looking to make some upgrades around your current home, stamped concrete is the perfect choice for beautiful hardscape elements. Not to mention, there is no better way to personalize design than by using ever customizable concrete. Now without further ado, let’s get into the reasons why you should choose stamped concrete for the hardscape elements of your property. What Are Hardscape Elements? For anyone confused over what exactly hardscape elements of a property are, hardscape elements are all the permanent, structural components of the landscape surrounding your home. In general, the most common hardscape elements that are used in a home’s landscape design include: Decks, Driveways, Patios, Pathways, Retaining walls, and Structures (gazebos, sheds, etc.) When it comes to materials used to create hardscape elements, there is a wide range of choices to consider. Typically, the most commonly used materials for hardscaping are concrete or pavers, such as flagstone, slate, worn rock, wood, or brick. Compared to concrete, pavers are a more expensive material. Ultimately, the material choice depends on the budget and personal preference of the property owner. Now that we know what hardscape elements are, let’s get into why to use stamped concrete! Stamped Concrete Design is Limitless: A huge advantage of using stamped concrete for a property’s hardscape elements is that the design options are never-ending. Unlike pavers that can’t be changed, stamped concrete is the only material that can be adjusted right up until it’s about to be poured. That means you can change everything from the color to the pattern and design right up to the last minute. Not to mention, stamped concrete can flawlessly imitate the look of expensive pavers at a much lower cost. That means you can use stamped concrete to create a gorgeous patio that looks like flagstone or wood in the exact color you want. Stamped Concrete is Less Labor Intensive: Laying pavers, like loose stone, piece by piece is going to be a time-consuming job. On the other hand, stamped concrete is less labor-intensive and can even go over existing concrete or stone as an overlay! Using stamped concrete services is the perfect way to start enjoying a new deck or patio without having to wait weeks or months for installment. Stamped Concrete Never Needs Resetting: After installing hardscape elements, you want to be able to enjoy them. However, with pavers, that’s not always the case because those materials, like stone, can become loose over time and turn into a tripping hazard instead. In other words, the best way to avoid twisted ankles around the pool each summer is to use stamped concrete and avoid having to replace or reset pavers. Stamped Concrete Requires Minimal Maintenance: That’s right, stamped concrete is the perfect choice for a hardscaping material that will be simple to clean and take little to no maintenance to keep its beautiful, patterned appearance. Spend more time enjoying the hardscape elements of the property and less time cleaning them when you used stamped concrete to design your perfect outdoor landscape. Read Also: Modern Home design ideas for crowded families 6 Interior Design Tips to Make Your House a Home

Choosing The Right Cleaning Company: 5 Essential Factors To Keep In Mind

Finding the right cleaning company can make all the difference in maintaining a room tidy and organized. These cleaning services comprise many solutions to maintain your spaces spotless, pristine, and organized. They offer a variety of cleaning services, ranging from ordinary to intensive. This article will review the main factors to consider while selecting the best cleaning service provider. But, before we get into the details, let's establish and understand what cleaning services are. Understanding Cleaning Services Cleaning services are essential for maintaining a clean and well-organized residence or office. Knowing what type of cleaning services you require is critical before choosing them because there is no one-size-fits-all option for these services. Commercial and residential cleaning services are the two primary cleaning services provided by cleaning companies. Commercial cleaning services shine at keeping commercial spaces spotless. On the other hand, residential cleaning services are concerned with maintaining the sanctity of your valuable property. They ensure your home is immaculate, focusing on everything from your comfortable living area to your kitchen. Reputable companies such as The Maids in the US and UrbanMop in Canada provide both kinds of cleaning services, keeping your residences and workstations immaculate and ensuring that everything from conference rooms to break areas gleam and have a polished appearance. The Scope Of Cleaning Services Contrary to popular belief, cleaning services have a wider spectrum of applications. It incorporates everything from surface cleaning—your typical wipe down—to sanitization and disinfection, which are vital in today's health-conscious society. Not to mention organizational cleaning, which involves removing and organizing. Cleaning visible surfaces is referred to as surface washing. It has to do with outward appearances and some degree of cleanliness. In this day and age of hygiene awareness, sanitization and disinfection go a little deeper and are essential. It's about maintaining a secure workplace and eliminating pathogens. The last form of cleaning is organizational cleaning, which is necessary if you require assistance cleaning and arranging places. In crowded residences or disorderly offices, this can be a lifesaver. Knowing your specific cleaning requirements is essential. It enables cleaning companies to customize their offerings, ensuring they target the appropriate areas and cut out pointless chores. You can tailor your cleaning strategy if you know what you require. Efficiency is essential, but cost-effectiveness is too since you won't pay for things you don't need. Knowing the basics of cleaning can make all the difference, whether it's your office or a prized residence. In light of this, let's examine the essential factors you should consider while choosing the ideal cleaning service provider. Factors To Consider When Choosing A Cleaning Company Various essential criteria demand your attention while choosing the best cleaning services for your requirements. These are the top five factors to consider about: Reviews And Reputation Checking out internet reviews and ratings of the cleaning businesses you're contemplating is one of the first things you should do. These evaluations offer accurate perceptions of the experiences of previous clients, illuminating the firm's dependability and level of service. Don't undervalue the influence of recommendations from others. Ask your acquaintances, relatives, or coworkers if they have used any cleaning service providers successfully. Personal recommendations can be invaluable when selecting a choice. Credentials And Certifications Make sure the cleaning service you are considering is completely licensed and insured. In addition to proving their legality, this also provides you peace of mind because it ensures that any potential accidents or damages are covered. For top-notch service, a cleaning crew with the proper training is required. Ask about the personnel and the company's qualifications and training. Cleaning that is efficient and effective is more likely to be provided by trained professionals. Pricing And Transparency You can avoid surprises by obtaining detailed bids that break down the expenses of the cleaning services. This openness ensures no concealed fees and lets you know exactly what you're paying for. Choose a different course of action if you can. Spend some time contrasting the costs and quality of the numerous cleaning businesses. In this manner, you can balance your expenditure limit and the level of service you want. Eco-Friendliness And Cleaning Products Learn about the company's eco-friendly cleaning procedures if you care about the environment. Today, many businesses provide environmentally favourable cleaning choices that minimize their impact. Safety is non-negotiable, particularly if you live with kids or pets. Ensure the cleaning supplies the business employs are risk-free for your family members and won't leave any hazardous residues behind. Contract Terms And Flexibility Check the conditions of the contract very thoroughly before committing. The cancellation policies should be carefully read if your requirements change or you're unhappy with the service. You can save issues later by being aware of these phrases up front. Can they modify their services to suit your cleaning needs or schedule changes? An excellent attribute of a cleaning service company is flexibility. Conclusion The selection of the finest cleaning service should not be made hastily, since it immediately affects the hygiene and cleanliness of your house or place of work, which in turn affects your well-being. Making an informed selection requires understanding the complexities of cleaning services and the important aspects to consider. Read also: 10 Tactics To Maintain Clear Windows 5 Hotel Housekeeping Tricks You Need To Clean Your Bathroom How Cleaning Helps Us Feel Better and Why We Don’t Do It

9 Clothes Dryer Maintenance Tips