Last Updated on July 12, 2025 by The Insurance Pros
🔥 Preventing Dryer Fires in Michigan Homes
Dryer fires continue to threaten Michigan homes each year. According to the NFPA, clothes dryers are responsible for nearly 15,600 home fires annually, with failure to clean the vent being the top cause. These fires cause millions of dollars in property damage and result in tragic loss of life. What’s the good news? They’re highly preventable.
🔥 Top Tips to Prevent Dryer Fires
- Clean the lint trap after every single load.
- Use only rigid or semi-rigid metal dryer ducts.
- Clean the dryer vent and ductwork at least once a year (twice for large households or pets).
- Vacuum around and under the dryer every few months to remove debris and lint.
- Never operate the dryer without the lint filter in place.
- Do not dry items with grease, oils, or flammable chemicals.
- Ensure your dryer exhausts to the outside—not into a crawl space or attic.
📈 Signs Your Dryer May Be a Fire Risk
Watch for these red flags:
- Clothes take longer than usual to dry.
- Clothing feels unusually hot after the cycle.
- You notice a burning smell while the dryer is running.
- The dryer’s exterior becomes heated to the touch.
- The vent flap doesn’t open properly when the dryer is on.
🛠️ Maintenance & Cleaning Tips
Have a professional clean your dryer at least once per year, particularly the internal components where lint may accumulate, such as the heating elements, switches, and motors.
- Heating elements
- Switches and motors
- The section behind the lint trap and vent system contains important information about what your Michigan insurance covers.?
🏠 What Does Your Michigan Insurance Cover?
If your home suffers fire damage due to a dryer, your homeowners insurance typically covers repair and replacement costs. However, if there is evidence of negligence, such as neglecting to clean the vents, your claim may face reduction or denial.
Some insurers may even offer discounts for completing preventative maintenance. It’s a good idea to document any professional cleaning services or DIY maintenance you perform.
📥 Download the Free Infographic
For a quick-reference visual guide you can print or share, download our free infographic below:
📄 Download Dryer Fire Safety Infographic (PDF)
🚨 Bonus Tip: Protect Your Home with the Right Smoke Detector
Make sure your laundry room is equipped with a working smoke detector. Not all types are suitable for this area. For more info, check out our guide:
🧯 Choosing the Right Type of Smoke Detector in Michigan
