5 Home Appliance Fire Hazards

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking Ranges – Even after controlling for human error, stoves and ovens cause a lot of fires. In many situations, it’s difficult even for investigators to determine whether a fire began due to human error or an electrical/mechanical problem inside the stove. You also might be surprised to learn that electric ranges cause more fires than gas ranges. Regardless of the range, it is not recommend to use it for storing unused pots or pans and do not leave a range unattended while in use.

Clothes Washers and Dryers – It’s no secret that clogged lint traps cause dryer fires. Washers and dryers cause an estimated 16,000 fires each year and most dryer fires ignite when the lint trap isn’t cleaned frequently enough. That being said, the heating element in your dryer and the moving parts inside your washing machine’s drum can catch fire through no fault of your own. For this reason, we always recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions and do not overload either of these appliances.

Dishwashers – Dishwashers are the second most common source of a kitchen fire caused by non-cooking appliances. Dishwashers combine electronics and heating elements with water, which is the perfect environment for electric fires to begin. We suggest you avoid turning on your dishwasher before leaving your home to avoid the risk of faulty elements starting a fire.

Portable Cookers/Warmers – Small cooking appliances like chafing dishes and slow cookers are also a relatively common cause of cooking equipment-related fires. While newer models have safety features like automatic timers – older ones don’t.  Always unplug small appliances when they are not in use – but especially those with heating elements.

Refrigerators – You may be surprised to learn that –  refrigerators are the most common appliance for fire hazards in the United States. There is virtually no opportunity for human error when it comes to refrigerator operation. Refrigerators run day and night, automatically cycling on and off for many years. Over time, various parts can wear out, including relay switches and compressors which are the primary causes of refrigerators igniting.

If you have had the unfortunate event of an appliance fire - please call SERVPRO of Sussex County today and we will help with the clean-up - 303-856-9768.