TUMBLE dryers are a quick way to get the washing done – but simple mistakes using the device could land you with a big bill.
Not only could the errors cost you money, in the worst case they could even put lives at risk.
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Regular use of your tumble dryer can lead to the build up of lint within the device, which many people don’t realise.
According to Electrical Safety First (ESF), millions of us never clean it up putting households at greater risk of fire.
Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at the safety group said: “One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of a tumble dryer fire is to clean your lint filter after every use.”
“Forgetting to clean your lint filter isn’t just potentially costly, it could put you and your home at risk.
“Lint is very flammable, and an excessive build-up could cause a fire that not only causes severe damage to your home but also puts you and your family’s life at risk.”
The cost of repairs after a fire could range from a couple of hundred pounds to replace the dryer itself, to tens of thousands of pounds for major repair work, depending on the severity.
The average insurance claim for a tumble dryer fire is £25,000 according to data from Admiral.
Without the right cover it could mean having to fork out yourself.
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But even with home insurance in place and protecting you from major upfront costs, you could find a claim pushes up the cost of your premium in future.
Claire Charlton, head of household claims at the insurer, said: “A fire that starts in a tumble dryer can be devastating.
“If the fire spreads, it can result in thousands of pounds of damage.
“Nobody wants to see their home ruined by a fire, so taking some time to ensure you clean your lint filter regularly can prevent heartbreak further down the line.”
A regular clean out of your dryer could also help slash your energy bill.
Lisa Barber, Which? home products and services editor, previously told The Sun: “Maintaining your tumble dryer could trim your bill, as filters blocking up with dust and lint from clothes can add nearly £20 to annual laundry costs.”
You can check your instruction manual for how to clear lint in your tumble dryer as it can vary by device.
Generally the appliances have a lint filter which collects the small fibres that come off when you’re drying your clothes.
Take it out and remove the material that’s collected and run it under the tap too, before leaving it to dry out and putting back in.
You should clean the tumble dryer regularly as a build up of lint can ignite during use because of the high heat.
ESF recommends removing lint and fluff from around the dryer door with each use, as well as looking out for any scorching or burn marks, plus lose wiring.
Fire services attend on average two of these fires every day.
And a build up of lint isn’t the only mistake that can lead to a dangerous and costly outcome.
Using a extension lead to power a tumble dryer is a big no-no.
Turning on your machine overnight also poses a risk, as you’re less likely to notice if a fire occurs while asleep.
Meanwhile many admit to living without a working fire alarm, ESF found, which could help prevent the spread of a fire, especially overnight.
You can pick up a smoke alarm for as little as £6 from Dunelm.
Giuseppe said: “Get into the habit of cleaning your lint filter after every use to prevent a build-up of lint and fluff, avoid powering them by extension leads which can be overloaded and, where practically possible, avoid leaving it on whilst out of the house, especially overnight.”
You should also avoid overloading the tumble dryer, and tumbling items that are contaminated with things like grease, oil or fats which are combustible.
