Birmingham, AL

In the United States, there are over 15,000 dyer fires a year. Failure to complete routine maintenance and inspections is a leading contributor in dryer fires across the nation.

Dryer vents clogged with dust, fiber, and lint is the cause of nearly 30% of all dryer fires, making it a top contributor to this tragedy. To reduce this risk, clean lint screens and traps before and after every load of laundry. Carefully wash lint screens with soap and water at least once a month to remove residue buildup from dryer sheets. Also, be sure your vent material and installation are up to code according to city, state, and manufacturer recommendations. Replace foil or plastic vents with venting made from semi-rigid or solid metal material. Check the path of the dryer vent. Be sure it is as straight and short as possible. This helps prevent buildup at the elbows of vent systems. Check out the outside hood of the venting system. Make sure it is free from blockages, freezing, or other damages. In addition to these actions, have your dryer vent system professionally inspected and cleaned seasonally.

To enhance dryer fire prevention methods, be sure to keep a working fire extinguisher that is designed for use in laundry rooms near the washer and dryer. Test and replace the batteries on all fire alarms frequently. Do not store flammable or combustible materials near the dryer and refrain from drying clothing covered in such materials. Do not leave the house or go to sleep when your clothes dryer is running. Develop a fire safety/emergency plan. Be sure to include exits and meeting places in the plan. Discuss and practice the plan with all household members. Learn the warning signs of lint buildup and clogged vents including:

• Clothes take more than one cycle to dry, especially jeans and towels.
• There is no lint visible on lint screen.
• Dryer repeatedly stops during a cycle.
• Clothes have a moldy smell after a dry cycle.
• Clothes are very hot after a dry cycle.

This article was written by Karl Schiesz, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Central Alabama. Karl is committed to educating his customers on dryer vent cleaning and maintenance to prevent clothes dryer fires and to save money on energy bills. http://www.dryerventwizard.com provides more tips and information on dryer vent maintenance and services. Karl services Central Alabama, and neighborhoods around Jefferson County, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston and Gadsden.

Karl Schiesz says his job is not complete until his customers understand how to maintain their dryer vent systems to prevent a dryer fire and to save on energy costs

Birmingham, AL -- Karl Schiesz, former Culinary Director, traded his chef hat and apron for a logo-ed uniform to own and operate a Dryer Vent Wizard, Safe Homes, Dry Clothes (DVW), franchise in Central Alabama.

DVW services prevent dryer fires, keep dryers functioning properly and provide energy savings through dryer and dryer vent maintenance, cleaning, repair, replacement and alterations.

When Schiesz decided he didn't want back into Food Service Industry and wasn't ready to retire, he looked into franchising. Having a customer service influence earlier in his career gave Schiesz a wealth of experience on which to draw. He researched several concepts and found Dryer Vent Wizard Dry Clothes, Safe Homes. Despite the funny name, Schiesz found the concept intriguing.

"I liked that DVW provided much needed solutions to consumers' dryer and dryer vent problems which ultimately prevents dryer fires," says Schiesz.

According to Schiesz, consumer response to DVW has been positive, although a big part of what he does is still educating. "When consumers find their dryer taking more than one cycle to dry a load, they assume it's mechanical when the real problem is lint accumulation in the dryer vent causing the dryer to work inefficiently and become susceptible to a dryer fire," says Schiesz.

The U.S. Fire Administration has reported that dryer fires account for an average of 15,000 fires with an approximate $88 Million in property damage, 15 deaths and 400 injuries annually. "Failure to clean" was citied as the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings.

In an effort to make consumers more aware, Culinary Director turned entrepreneur Schiesz shares these maintenance "tips" to prevent dryer fires and keep dryers running efficiently:

• Be sure that dryer vent systems are up to code with city, state and manufacturer.
• Replace any plastic or foil vent with semi-rigid or solid metal venting
• Clean screen lint trays before and after drying a load.
• Wash lint screens with soap and water every few months to remove residue left behind by fabric softeners.
• Don't leave the house or go to bed with the dryer running.
• Have dryer vents professionally cleaned and inspected annually.

Karl explains the warning signs to look for:

• Clothes are taking more than one cycle to dry, especially jeans and towels.
• No lint visible on lint screen.
• Dryer repeatedly stops during a cycle
• Clothes have moldy smell after dry cycle

"Consumers who follow these guidelines," says Schiesz, "will create a safe environment in their homes, prolong the life of their dryer and save money on energy bills."

Dryer Vent Wizard, Dry Clothes Safe Homes, is the largest chain of dryer vent specialists in the U.S. with 50 metro market locations servicing residential and commercial customers. Karl Schiesz of http://www.dryerventwizard.com services Central Alabama, Jefferson County, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa County, Northport, Brookwood, Anniston, Gadsden

Contact:

Karl Schiesz - Owner

Dryer Vent Wizard of Central Alabama

2720 Goldmor Circle

Birmingham, AL 35244

205-408-0096 - office

205-568-0051 - cell

kschiesz@dryerventwizard.com

http://www.dryerventwizard.com

Karl Schiesz is overwhelmed by letters and emails, thanking him for his service and advice on dryer vent maintenance to prevent dryer fires

Birmingham, AL -- The U. S. Fire Administration reports over 15,000 dryer fires annually; most of these tragedies could be prevented with proper dryer vent cleaning and maintenance. About 80% of Americans have clothes dryers, yet most are unaware that annual dryer vent maintenance keeps the dryer running properly and prevents dryer fires. Karl Schiesz, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Central Alabama, makes sure his customers understand how to properly maintain their dryer vent system to prevent a clothes dryer fire.

Karl has been in the dryer vent cleaning and repair business for over 2 years and he receives email, letters and phone calls from customers who just want to express their appreciation or refer a friend or loved one to have their dryer vent systems inspected. "The overwhelming consumer response has made us number one in dryer vent service in our area," says Karl. "Having worked in the service industry for over 30 years, I truly believe this a ‘must service' to provide to our community and it's an opportunity to educate homeowners about the real threat of dryer fires in their own home." Schiesz passionately believes his company provides a household safety service that no one exclusively offers in his area. "I know several families that have experienced personal tragedy caused by dryer fires that could have easily been prevented," says Schiesz.

Karl urges consumers to visit http://www.dryerventwizard.com for valuable information and a list of warning signs of clogged dryer vent systems. Dryer Vent Wizard, Dry Clothes Safe Homes is a member of the National Fire Protection Association and the largest chain of dryer vent cleaning, repair, replacement and alternation specialists in the U.S. with nearly 50 franchisees in major markets in the U.S.

Contact:

Karl Schiesz - Owner

Dryer Vent Wizard of Central Alabama

205-408-0096 - office

kschiesz@dryerventwizard.com

http://www.dryerventwizard.com

Dryer vent cleaning, dryer vent exhaust cleaning, dryer vent repair, air duct cleaning, dryer ducts, dryer vent installation, servicing Central Alabama, Jefferson County, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa County, Northport, Brookwood, Anniston, Gadsden

The Southern Women's Show returns to Birmingham October 2-5 at the BJCC in downtown Birmingham.

• Food
• Fashion
• Fun
• Shopping
• Celebrity Guests
• Health
• Beauty
• Lifestyle

• Admission:
• Adults $9 at the door
• On-line Advance Tickets $8
• Groups $7 (10 or more, Advance)
• One free ticket for every 10 purchased
• Youth $5 (ages 6-12)
• Children under 6 free with paying adult

Special Pricing:

• $5 Every Day After 5pm
• $7 Tickets Available At Piggly Wiggly

For $1 Discount Coupon click here

Don't miss out on all the fun!

Schedule Of Events

Show Exhibitors

Courtesy of Ann Allen, e-Pro, SRES, ASP

BIRMINGHAM AREA REAL ESTATE

205.902.4868

Keller Williams

One Chase Corporation Drive, Suite 150

Hoover, AL 35244

Ann@AnnAllenTeam.com

© 2008 Ann Allen, All rights reserved

Come listen to some great music, taste fresh microbrews and enjoy the view from Red Mountain at Vulcan Park and Museum when the 4th Annual Vulcan AfterTunes returns on Sunday afternoons this fall.

Don't miss this unique event to socialize and meet your Birmingham neighbors.....so much fun!

Ticket prices include live music and admission to Vulcan's Museum and Outdoor Observation Balcony where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.

Admission: $8 Adults, $4 Children 5-12, Kids 4 and under get in FREE (Vulcan Patron Members too!)

Time: 3:00 p.m.

Come listen to the sweet sounds of these exceptional artists.........

September 28th: Amy LaVere

October 12th: The Lee Boys

October 16th: The Dan Tyminski Band

I hope to see you all there......it will be a great time......each week!

For more information check it out here!

Courtesy of Ann Allen, e-Pro, SRES, ASP

BIRMINGHAM AREA REAL ESTATE

205.902.4868

Keller Williams

One Chase Corporation Drive, Suite 150

Hoover, AL 35244

Ann@AnnAllenTeam.com

© 2008 Ann Allen, All rights reserved