Laundry – the never-ending cycle of dirty clothes and the constant battle of trying to make our machines run as efficiently as possible. Fortunately, we’ve got some simple steps you can take to make your dryer work more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills and helping you extend the life of your appliance.
✓ Don’t Overload the Dryer
Overloading your dryer can cause it to run less efficiently and take a lot longer to get the job done. You clothes won’t have enough room to move around and dry properly or evenly, and you’ll be running multiple loads before everything is ready to be put away. A good tip is to only dry as many clothes as you can comfortably fit in your arms.
Note: Remember that the opposite notion – underloading the dryer – should be avoided too. Wait until you get a full load of clothes, so that you can truly make the most of each drying session.
✓ Clean the Lint Trap Before Every Load
I know, I know. This one sounds like a no-brainer, but you’ll be surprised at how many people forget to do this simple task. Lint buildup in the lint trap can cause your dryer to run less efficiently, and it can even be a fire hazard. Make sure to clean the lint trap before every load to ensure that your dryer is running at its best.
It’s quick, easy to do, and well-worth it!
✓ Check That the Dryer Vent Is Not Blocked
Check the vent regularly as you exit your home to make sure that it is clear of lint and free of debris or nesting materials. Lint can build up easily here if not regulated, and birds and rodents love to use these vents to build nests that can cause blockages. Any type of buildup will prevent air and lint from escaping, making your dryer work harder in the process.
This accumulation of debris can also set the stage for a fire or gas leak – both of which you want to avoid.
✓ Deep Clean the Lint Filter Every Month
Even if you clear your lint trap after every load of laundry you run, particles can still build up and clog the pores. Even if it doesn’t look clogged, your dryer sheets, dryer balls, and any similar items cause microscopic materials to form up, inhibiting your lint trap from venting properly.
Each month, remove your lint trap and clean it with water and soap. This will remove any build up not visible to the naked eye. (Just make sure it’s completely dry before reinstalling.)
✓ Don’t Over-dry Your Clothes
Over-drying your clothes can cause them to shrink and can also lead to increased energy usage. Use the automatic sensor dry setting on your dryer or check your clothes for dryness before the end of the cycle. Once you get a feel for how long a load typically takes, you can set your time accordingly, so you’re not using up any extra energy – or making your dryer put in necessary overtime.
✓ Use Dryer Balls
Dryer balls can help to reduce drying time, as well as reduce wrinkles and static in your clothes by keeping them from clumping up in the dryer.
They work by getting between your clothes while they spin around in your appliance. This allows the hot air to evenly distribute itself between the clothes, speeding up the drying process and allowing you to end your cycle earlier than usual.
✓ Have Your Vents Professionally Cleaned
Dirty and clogged dryer vents can invite serious fire hazards, as well as make you more prone to experience gas and carbon monoxide leaks. Because of this, it is important to have your dryer vents professionally cleaned at least once per year – and more than once if you have an especially active household.
Having your dryer vent properly cleaned will improve the airflow ensuring your system can run as efficiently as possible, as well as aid in preventing dangerous hazards. Also trust a pro to ensure the job gets done correctly and thoroughly.
Give Our Experts a Call
By following these simple tips, you can make your dryer run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills and also extending the life of your appliance. And who doesn’t love saving money and prolonging the life of their appliances? It’s a win-win all around.
So, next time you’re doing laundry, remember these tips and you’ll be on your way to a more efficient laundry experience.
Need anything else? In addition to dryer vent cleaning services, we also offer quality chimney repairs and maintenance. Call 970-234-3330 with questions or reach out to us online today.
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