Dryer Fire Prevention: Why It Matters
According to the US Fire Administration, dryers cause approximately 2,900 home fires annually, resulting in property damage, injuries, and deaths. The leading cause: failure to clean lint from the dryer and exhaust vent system. The good news is that virtually all dryer fires are preventable with proper maintenance.
The #1 Preventive Measure: Vent Cleaning
Clean your Kenmore dryer exhaust vent at least once per year. Lint is highly combustible, and a vent clogged with lint can ignite from the heat of normal dryer operation. Have a professional clean the full vent run — from the back of the dryer to the exterior cap — including any elbows and long horizontal sections.
Lint Screen Maintenance
Clean the lint screen before every load. Once a month, wash it with warm soapy water to remove dryer sheet residue that coats the mesh and restricts airflow even when the screen appears clean. A restricted lint screen forces lint deeper into the vent system.
What NOT to Dry
- Items soaked with flammable chemicals (gasoline, oil, cooking spray) — wash them multiple times first
- Foam rubber items that are not dryer-safe
- Items with rubber or plastic coatings
- Running shoes (unless on a no-heat cycle)
Exhaust Vent Material
Replace foil flex duct (accordion-style aluminum) with rigid metal duct whenever possible. Foil flex duct sags, creates lint-trapping bends, and is more prone to crushing. Rigid metal duct maintains consistent airflow and is far more fire-resistant.
Signs Your Dryer Needs Immediate Vent Cleaning
- Clothes are hot but still damp after a full cycle
- Laundry room becomes hot and humid during dryer operation
- The exterior vent flap does not open during operation
- You notice a burning smell during or after a cycle