HOW DOES THE ALARM WORK?
The dryer vent alarm is basically a device with a built-in sensor that monitors the airflow in the clothes dryer exhaust venting system. If the airflow is less than the minimum required 100 cfm. (cubic feet per minute) the sensor will set of the alarm. Restricted airflow is usually caused by a lint build-up. The alarm is a reminder for you to clean out the entire venting system including the lint screen on the clothes dryer before a fire starts.
TIP. Replace any broken or missing dryer vent hoods because the alarm will also be triggered if there is a blockage caused by a chipmunk or bird nest.
WHERE TO INSTALL THE ALARM
There are several types of dryer vent alarms available. In one model the probe is attached to the dryer vent by means of a small diameter clear tube while the alarm unit plugs directly into a receptacle. Others dryer vent alarms are of the same diameter as the dryer vent duct, see photo, and are installed at the back of the dryer, between the dryer and dryer vent. It is a quick and easy task. Just remove the dryer vent from the dryer, slip on the alarm and attach the duct to the alarm. Secure all connections with adjustable nylon plastic clamps. The alarm comes with a power cord and needs to be plugged in. If there is no electrical outlet or receptacle near the clothes dryer have one installed by a certified electrician. |
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Clothes Dryer Vent Alarm
Detects lint clogging, prevents clothes dryer fires |
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USFA DOCUMENTED CLOTHES DRYER FIRES
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has released a report stating that clothes dryer fires account for an estimated 12,700 residential fires, 15 deaths and 400 injuries annually. The USFA attributes “Failure to clean” as the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings. |
Many, if not all, fires could have been prevented if these homes were equipped with a dryer vent alarm.
During my 28 years of inspecting homes I never have seen a dryer vent alarm but after reading about it I think that every home should have one. The device is simple in design but very effective. The alarm will go off as soon as the airflow in the dryer venting system falls below 100 cfm. (cubic feet per minute)
WHY DO I NEED A DRYER VENT ALARM?
Enemy #1 in the laundry room is lint. Lint that is not trapped will eventually clog the clothe dryer venting system. Coiled dryer vents such as aluminum flex tubes and aluminum foil vents are especially prone to this.
The dryer lint screen and the entire vent system should be cleaned often. Failing to do so will make your dryer work harder and less efficient.
If the airflow inside the dryer's exhaust duct falls below 100 cfm. because of excessive lint build-up, the dryer can overheat and cause a fire.
This clothes dryer vent alarm is installed
at the back of the dryer. |
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WHY EVERY HOME SHOULD HAVE A DRYER VENT ALARM
Preventing fire:
A properly working alarm will prevent a clothes dryer fire.
Save on energy:
The sound of the alarm is a reminder to clean all lint screens and exhaust ducts. After a thorough cleaning the dryer will run more efficient and will cost less to operate.
WARNING
Never leave your dryer or any other appliance running when leaving your home or while sleeping. |
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