A Dryer Lint Filter’s Public Enemy #2:
Fabric Softener Sheets

Here’s a problem that used to be a ‘biggie’ with the older GM Frigidaire dryers that used fine Dacron lint screens, and I seem to be seeing it again these days so I thought I’d warn you about it.

If you use dryer fabric softener sheets, be careful to use only one sheet per load (or two). The chemical used in these sheets can clog lint filters, and even a partial clog can really lengthen drying time.

And, as we’ve talked about before, any restriction in the air handling system will shorten the life of your dryer’s heating element.

If you hold your lint filter up to a light and can see that it’s not clear, or if water doesn’t easily pass through it, yours has this problem. Just scrub it with a brush under very hot tap water to clean it. This residue can be really tough. I lightly scrub metal screens with a small brass brush. Plastic ones can be carefully scrubbed with an old toothbrush or other plastic-bristled brush.  

While the softener sheets are handy, my recommendation is generally that you use liquid softener in the washer instead.

Copyright 2003 www.DavesRepair.com 
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