MS Propane is back with some simple safety tips for using your propane dryer. Your propane dryer offers a fast and efficient way to get your clothes dried and smelling fresh. But you also need to be safe when using it.
Our team can’t fix your propane dryer if it breaks, but we can provide you with some safety tips.
1. Installation by a Professional
Ensuring your propane dryer is correctly connected to your home’s propane supply is vital for its safe operation. This task is not a DIY project. Rather, it requires the expertise of a certified professional who is trained to handle and install propane appliances.
A professional installer will not only connect the dryer safely but will also conduct an initial inspection to identify any potential issues that could compromise safety. They will check the connections for leaks, ensure the venting is set up correctly, and verify that the dryer is in compliance with local building codes and safety standards.
Yes, it’s an extra cost to set up your propane dryer. But an installation professional is the only way to ensure you start out right.
2. Always Clean the Lint Trap
You need to do two things every time you use your propane dryer to make sure it works well. First, clean the lint trap after every load. That can prevent a fire from starting in your dryer due to the lint getting way too hot.
Second, make sure the dryer vent hose works properly and is attached to the dryer vent duct. At least once a month, we advise you to look at the exit hole of the dryer vent duct, usually on an outside wall of your home, to make sure it’s not blocked with lint. Lint build-up can lead to a dryer vent duct fire, which can cause some serious damage to your wall and home structure.
3. Keep the Area Around Your Dryer Free From Clutter
Avoid storing flammable items such as boxes, cleaning rags, and chemical containers in close proximity to the dryer. The latent heat from your propane dryer could cause these items to catch on fire.
Look at the area behind the dryer to see if any lint has built up. Anything back there could impede air circulation, which can cause even more heat to build up in your laundry room. Leave sufficient space around the dryer to facilitate proper air circulation, which helps in the efficient operation of your appliance and reduces the chances of overheating.
4. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Installing carbon monoxide detectors near your propane dryer is a vital safety measure that can significantly enhance your family’s well-being. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible and odorless gas that can pose serious health risks, and propane appliances are potential sources of CO if not properly vented.
Place these detectors in strategic locations around your laundry area and in sleeping areas to ensure that any CO buildup can be quickly detected, allowing for timely evacuation and response. Choose detectors that meet the latest safety standards and feature a battery backup to ensure functionality even during power outages. Test the detectors monthly to confirm they are working correctly, and replace the batteries at least once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Replace the entire unit according to the manufacturer’s suggested lifespan, typically every 5 to 7 years. Carbon monoxide is not pleasant, and you won’t even know it’s in your home.
Propane Appliance Tips From MS Propane. We’re Heating the Way!
We hope you find these tips helpful. We can’t repair or fix your propane dryer, but we can help you manage your home’s propane supply. If you have any questions about your propane supply, feel free to contact us!
