Clothes Dryer Safety and Energy Tips
Did you know that dryers are the second highest energy-consuming appliance in most homes? And lint build-up is one of the major causes of the over 15,000 dryer fires that occur each year.
This article gives you tips for keeping your dryer safe and for saving energy too.
Why Is Dryer Care So Important?
Washing and drying clothes is not typically a task that most people enjoy. It never ends, and if you have a large family, your washer and dryer are likely running constantly. And a dryer takes a lot of energy to operate. The annual cost for operating a clothes dryer is about $85 a year and can go up to $170 a year depending on the frequency of its usage. In most homes, the only household appliance consuming more energy is the refrigerator. Further, your dryer is an expensive item to replace, and as we mentioned above, the risk of a dryer fire is all too real.
The good news is that there are things that you can do to keep your dryer operating safely, reduce energy consumption and extend its useful life. So read on.
Safety Tips
You may have heard the truly scary stories of clothes dryer catching fire because of lint accumulation. Here are some things you should do for the safety of your dryer.
- The first is to clean your dryer's lint filter trap after each load. In addition to helping keep your dryer safe, it also helps keep it performing efficiently.
- Clean your vent pipe of lint. Also, check your vent pipe. It is recommended that you use the straightest and shortest duct available. Flexible ducts can be a potential safety concern as they can be crushed or restrict the airflow, and may not be able to withstand high temperatures from the dryer.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in the same room as the clothes dryer, near the door where you can access easily in an emergency.
- If you are not confident of how to properly clean your dryer, check your vent pipe, etc., then do not hesitate to call in a professional to give your clothes dryer a thorough cleaning and inspection.
When it comes to keeping your home in top condition, there are countless tasks to consider. Still, few are as essential as maintaining your roof. Serving as your home’s first line of defense against the elements, the roof protects both the structure itself and everything inside. That’s why it’s crucial to keep it well-maintained throughout the year. The good news is that you typically only need to inspect your roof once a year—preferably after the harsher seasons have ended. Waiting until storms, wind, and heavy rains have passed allows you to get a clear and accurate picture of any potential damage or wear. While minor repairs may be needed every few years, a complete roof replacement is usually only necessary every 10 to 20 years, depending on the type of roofing material used.
Want to add an instant touch of warmth and charm to your home this winter? Use your fireplace or wood-burning stove not just for heat—but for atmosphere. A crackling fire brings a rustic, comforting feel to any space, and your firewood can enhance that cozy look when it’s thoughtfully displayed. Instead of hiding your chopped wood, turn it into a design feature. Neatly stacked logs under or beside the fireplace are not only convenient but also add a visual element that complements the glow of the fire. If you prefer a cleaner look, consider using a stylish firewood holder or rack to keep things organized and appealing. Your fireplace is a beautiful focal point—so take full advantage of it. Let both the flames and the firewood contribute to the cozy, inviting atmosphere in your home this season.
Dealing with a drain clogged by hair? You don’t need harsh chemicals to fix it. Skip the drain cleaner and try a hands-on approach that’s gentler on your plumbing. Clearing a clogged drain is one of the simpler home maintenance tasks—and you can do it yourself with minimal effort. All you really need is a drain snake or a plunger. A barbed drain snake is especially effective, as it clears blockages quickly without damaging your pipes or increasing the risk of leaks. If the clog doesn’t come loose right away, try using a plunger to help dislodge the debris. With just a couple of basic tools, you can keep your drains flowing freely—no chemicals required.
When it comes to simple home improvement tasks with big payoffs, adding insulation is one of the smartest moves you can make. Nearly every part of your home can benefit from having proper insulation in the walls, and the advantages go far beyond just staying warm. Here’s how insulation can make a big difference: Moisture Control: Keeping your home evenly heated during colder months helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and other issues. Lower Energy Bills: A well-insulated home is easier to heat and cool, reducing your energy usage—and your utility costs. Consistent Comfort: Insulation helps maintain steady temperatures, giving you better control over the climate in every room. Installing insulation is both cost-effective and beginner-friendly. Just measure, cut it to fit between wall studs or ceiling joists, and secure it using staples or nails.
Transform your outdoor space with carefully chosen lighting. Whether you opt for energy-saving fixtures or fully solar-powered lights, stylish illumination can brighten your patio, walkway, or porch. Outdoor lighting is one of the easiest and most practical electrical upgrades for your yard. Safe and Bright Evenings Proper lighting ensures you can safely navigate your backyard barbecue, hammock, or patio after the sun sets. Don’t let early darkness cut short your family time or compromise safety. Set the Mood with Decorative Lighting Add personality and ambiance with colorful or uniquely styled lights to keep the fun going well into the night. This affordable upgrade lets you customize your outdoor atmosphere for special gatherings. Consider swapping bulbs or pathway lights seasonally to keep your yard festive all year round.
Lighting can completely change the mood and appearance of any room in your home. One simple DIY upgrade that makes an immediate difference is swapping out your light bulbs. While bright white bulbs can brighten a space, they often feel too harsh for relaxing moments. Instead, opt for bulbs that emit a warm, natural yellow glow to create a soothing atmosphere. To save energy and reduce waste, choose LED bulbs—they’re both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. For even more flexibility, install dimmer switches. These easy additions let you adjust the brightness throughout the day to suit your needs perfectly.
