What causes dryer fires?

Crush & Burn

(Click the play button to watch the movie)

Reduced Airflow

Reduced airflow and the resulting lint build-up cause overheating by preventing fast enough drying action. When this happens, the high temperature limit safety switch has to cycle on and off to control the heater. Most high temperature limit switches were never designed to cycle on and off continuously which can cause them to fail over a period of time.

And as if that weren’t enough...

The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates there are 15,500 clothes dryer fires each year in the United States, amounting to $84 million in estimated property damage annually. Lack of maintenance is the leading cause of dryer fires, and LINT?is the leading material to ignite. These fires can be caused by failure of mechanical and/or electrical parts within the dryer itself, improper materials being put into the dryer, and insufficient airflow as a result of improper installation. The CPSC recommends changing out vinyl and foil venting!

Check your local codes!

Many state and local municipalities have placed requirements on new and remodeling projects to include all metal venting.

Proper Airflow

Proper dryer venting can decrease drying time and decrease operating costs. (Vinyl and foil venting material can easily collapse when installed. Full airflow helps prevent the dryer from operating on its high temperature safety limit control. The use of proper venting materials to achieve maximum performance may also extend the life of the dryer and increase the life of clothing due to lower drying temperatures.

Underwriters Laboratories

Underwriters Laboratories standards 560 and 2158 for clothes dryers require that all dryers listed must specify all metal dryer venting unless otherwise tested. A UL181 label does not apply to dryer venting. UL® recommends metal venting.

Reduced Cost

A key to effective dryer performance is optimal airflow. A properly installed all metal dryer vent will help ensure this airflow. When clothes are given the appropriate amount of air, they dry quicker and are subject to less tumbling. This results in less wear on the clothing and use of less electricity or gas.

POP Literature

We stand by our commitment to quality and useful dryer venting. We can provide you with point of purchase brochures and signing which help direct customers in their choice of venting. These items also have proven helpful to the nationwide base of professional installers who prefer Builder's Best venting.

All wire supported products, like foil and vinyl, crush easily behind the dryer. Although foil is more resistant than vinyl to burning, the layers of foil are held together with layers of plastic, and will therefore burn. All dryer manufacturers recommend all metal venting. And in most cases if foil is used it will VOID THE WARRANTY.

Ask about our point of purchase literature. We believe consumer education (installers and DIYers alike) of the consequences of inaedquate venting is worth the extra mile (POP#901).