A Cuban woman in the U.S. nearly had a huge scare at home when she discovered what was really happening with her dryer. It all started when the appliance stopped drying clothes properly and began to emit a strange smell, something that seemed like just a technical malfunction but turned out to be a much more serious issue.
Zuny Sánchez, known on social media as @zuny_sanchez, decided to call a technician after she realized that no matter how hard she tried, her dryer wasn’t working. The surprise came when the specialist disassembled the appliance and uncovered the danger: “It almost caught fire; it was filled with lint accumulated in the duct,” Zuny shared in a video with her followers.
In her account, Zuny explained that she had no idea such maintenance was necessary: “I was told that those ducts need to be cleaned every year because everything that rises through the dryer filter accumulates.” Upon seeing the amount of debris that came out, Zuny didn’t hesitate to share her experience so that others could avoid a similar incident: “I hope no one has to go through this. I smelled something burning and stopped in time.”
The warning quickly caught the attention of many, and reactions followed promptly. One user shared her most tragic experience: “Last week, my house caught fire for the same reason. We lost everything, including our little dog,” while another admitted, “I’ve had the dryer for years and have never cleaned it. Now I’m scared; I’ll do it first thing tomorrow.”
Others took the opportunity to give advice: "The filter is cleaned with every load of laundry"; "I use a vacuum to clean the duct so it doesn’t accumulate as much." However, there were also those who joked about the situation: "I watched the video feeling really worried, and I don’t even have a dryer"; "My dryer is the sun, so I’m not in any danger."
If you have a dryer at home, take note: in addition to cleaning the filter after each use, it’s essential to check the ventilation duct at least once a year. A small oversight can turn into a much bigger issue. And did you know that this could happen?
Frequently Asked Questions About Dryer Maintenance to Prevent Fires
Why is it important to clean the dryer vent ducts?
It is crucial to clean the dryer vent at least once a year because lint buildup can lead to a fire. The lint that accumulates in the duct can obstruct airflow and cause the appliance to overheat, increasing the risk of a household fire.
What signs indicate that the dryer needs maintenance?
Signs that indicate the dryer needs maintenance include clothes taking longer than usual to dry and a burnt smell. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to check and clean the ventilation ducts promptly to prevent potential risks.
How can the risk of fire in dryers be prevented?
To prevent the risk of fire, it is essential to clean the lint filter after each use and to check the ventilation ducts at least once a year. These actions reduce lint buildup and ensure adequate airflow, thereby decreasing the risk of overheating.
What experiences have other users shared about dryer maintenance?
Many users have shared experiences that highlight the importance of regular dryer maintenance. Some have suffered fires due to lint buildup, while others, having learned about these risks, have started to perform preventive cleanings. The community has also shared useful tips, such as using a vacuum cleaner to clean the duct.
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