Clothes dryers
Clothes dryers can be a big fire hazard if they aren’t looked after properly. When dryers aren’t frequently cleaned, it can lead to lint buildup and clogged ducts. If your clothes seem like they’re taking a while to dry – or if they come out hotter than usual – check your pipes. It could save your life.
Microwaves
An extra three minutes can mean the difference between life and death when it comes to microwave cooking. Accidentally turning the dial and wandering out of the room can have disastrous consequences – so ensure that you don’t leave this appliance unattended. The National Fire Protection Association say that microwaves are the cause of four percent of cooking-related house fires each year.
Deep fryers
Deep fryers cause five deaths, 60 injuries, and $15 million of damage each year. Many people use fryers to deep fry turkeys at Thanksgiving – a practice that the National Fire Prevention Agency has warned against. If you insist on using a fryer – especially for turkeys – ensure that the product is fully thawed, the fryer is isolated and manned, and that you wear protective clothing.
Toasters
Although a staple of any household, toasters are considered inherently dangerous. The mix of heat and electricity can lead to disaster, including electrocution and fires. Regularly clean out your toaster per the manufacturer’s guide – including the crumb tray. Never stick anything in a toaster – especially if it can conduct electricity, and ensure you keep your toaster away from the sink or any water.
Refrigerators
Obviously, you need a refrigerator- but this appliance comes with a slew of risks. Ensure that your fridge is placed on an even surface to avert it from tipping and prevent children from swinging from the handles. Regularly clean your fridge to kill any lurking pathogens like E. coli and salmonella. If you smell any toxic vapors coming from your fridge, call a professional technician.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are the perfect environment for pathogenic fungi to grow. Clinging to the black rubber sealant around your dishwasher, these black yeasts can cause health issues for anyone – including those in perfect health. These fungi can lead to lung and skin infections – so ensure you regularly give your dishwasher a deep clean.
Garbage disposals
If you haven’t properly been taught how to use a garbage disposal, you may be prone to injury. Beware of the unit’s sharp blades. Even if the appliance is turned off, it can still result in a trip to the emergency room. Ensure that you call out a professional repairer to deal with any appliance issues rather than trying to tackle them yourself.
Ovens
Ovens are relatively safe – it’s dirty ovens you have to be wary of. Any food trapped at the bottom of your oven will continue to cook every single time you switch your oven on. These spills can begin to smoke, emitting harmful gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. Clean your oven, your health will thank you for it.
Gas stoves
Gas stoves emit a hefty amount of emissions, both while in use and when they’re switched off. A 2022 study by researchers estimated that gas stoves are responsible for 13 percent of childhood asthma cases in the US. Measures are underway to regulate the hazardous gases released by the appliance, though it’s thought to be a lengthy process.
Washing machines
Your washing machine is more dangerous than you may think. A 2016 study found that 17.3 percent of fires from faulty appliances were due to washing machines. Old wiring, blocked drain pumps, motor malfunction, and overburdening your drum can all lead to deadly fires, so ensure you regularly give your machine a service once a year.