Home Appliances That Are Fire Hazards

13 Nov Home Appliances That Are Fire Hazards

Be aware of these machines in the home with a high risk of fire.

Appliances in the home have transformed everyday living. From washing up to doing laundry to reheating food, our home appliances have changed our lives for the better. While this is certainly the case, there are some appliances that come with a unique risk of fire. As we all know, even one small fire can cause a devastating loss for homeowners. Keep these appliances in mind when looking to improve your home’s fire safety.

Microwave

Not only do we have to be careful what we put in the microwave, but we have to be careful using them. Microwaves have heating elements that can wear down over time. Many students and homeowners have found that older microwaves turn themselves on and have heating issues. If this is the case, replace your appliance immediately. Experts say that they should be updated every 5 years.

Dryers

Across the nation, dryers have transformed the modern household. This machine makes getting laundry dry incredibly quick and easy. However, they are a common culprit in starting home fires. While a lot of lint is caught in the lint trap, some bypass the trap and gets stuck in the exhaust hose. Even if you clean the lint filter after every cycle, there will still be some build-up of lint in the hose. In these hot and dry conditions, one spark can quickly ignite a fire. To prevent this, regularly remove the exhaust hose and clean out all the lint.

Dishwashers

Anyone who has opened the dishwasher right after the cycle will know how hot it can get in that machine. Dishwashers rely on heating elements to warm up water and dry the contents. Over time, these elements wear out. Often with little to no warning, these elements can spark a fire. Keep your machine in good condition, servicing it regularly to inspect for any signs of wear and tear.

Interested in keeping your home fire free? Check out these top causes of electrical fires in the home and how to prevent them. If your appliances and home succumb to fire, you will want to ensure that you have quality insurance to protect you. At Dougherty Insurance, we represent multiple carriers and are able to explore all of the best homeowners insurance options. We want to make sure that you have the coverage you need – it’s our job to help you! Contact us today for unparalleled insurance in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana.