Lint build-up is one of the most common and costly problems in commercial laundry operations. It slows down your equipment, increases energy use, and creates a serious fire risk. If left unchecked, it can lead to unexpected downtime and expensive repairs.
This guide explains what causes lint build-up in commercial dryers, how it affects your equipment, and the steps you can take to prevent it. We’ll also introduce a new technology that improves lint removal and helps keep your dryers running safely and efficiently.
What Causes Lint Build-Up in Commercial Dryers?
Lint is the result of clothing and linens disintegrating over time. Every wash and dry cycle causes fabric fibers to break down, and these loose fibers become the lint that clogs dryers and vents. While this process is unavoidable, certain factors can make lint build-up worse, including:
1. Overuse of Bleach
Many assume that adding extra bleach is the best way to clean laundry, but bleach actually weakens fabric fibers, causing them to break apart more quickly. The result? More lint in your dryers.
2. Excessive Heat
High drying temperatures speed up fiber breakdown. If your dryer runs too hot, more fibers loosen from fabrics, leading to faster lint accumulation.
3. Poorly Managed Wash Cycles
If laundry isn’t properly managed in the wash stage, it spends too much time in the dryer, increasing the chances of excessive lint build-up.
4. Clogged or Ineffective Lint Screens
Even though most commercial dryers have lint screens, they can’t catch everything. As lint bypasses the screen, it starts collecting in vent ducts, heating elements, and exhaust systems, creating a significant fire risk.
Why is Lint Build-Up Dangerous?
Lint isn’t just annoying—it’s a major hazard for commercial dryers. Here’s why:
1. Fire Hazard
Lint is highly flammable. If too much builds up in a dryer or its venting system, all it takes is a small spark to start a fire. This is one of the leading causes of commercial laundry fires.
2. Blocked Airflow and Overheating
Dryers rely on proper airflow to function. When lint clogs up vents, it restricts air circulation, causing the machine to overheat and shut down. Some dryers have safety shutoffs, but others will continue trying to operate under stress, leading to breakdowns.
3. Reduced Drying Efficiency
When air can’t flow freely through a dryer, it takes longer to dry laundry, driving up energy costs and increasing wear on machines.
How to Prevent Lint Build-Up in Commercial Dryers
1. Use the Right Washing Methods
One of the best ways to reduce lint problems in the dryer is to manage them in the wash cycle.
- Use less bleach to prevent excessive fabric breakdown.
- Follow proper washing and extraction methods to minimize drying time and reduce the lint that reaches the dryer.
2. Keep Lint Screens Clean
While lint screens can’t catch everything, they still help. Make sure they are cleaned after every cycle to prevent build-up.
3. Regularly Inspect and Clean Dryer Vents
Vents should be professionally cleaned at least every three months to remove trapped lint and ensure dryers operate safely.
4. Consider an External Lint Collector
Installing an external lint collection system helps capture excess lint before it reaches the vent system, reducing fire risks and improving efficiency.
5. Upgrade to Advanced Lint-Capturing Technology
For facilities looking for the best lint control, the latest ProCapture technology offers an industry-leading solution.
What is ProCapture and How Does It Work?
UniMac’s ProCapture system is a game-changing advancement in commercial dryer technology. Instead of relying on traditional lint screens, ProCapture uses a powerful air cyclone system—similar to how a Dyson vacuum separates dust.
Here’s how it works:
- As the dryer runs, ProCapture spins the air inside the machine.
- Lint particles are pulled into the center of the airstream.
- The centrifugal force drops lint into a collection bucket instead of allowing it to escape into the vent system.
Benefits of ProCapture Technology
- Removes 99.9% of lint from the air before it exits the dryer.
- Reduces the risk of lint fires by keeping vents clear.
- Minimizes maintenance needs by keeping dryers and vents cleaner for longer.
- Improves energy efficiency, leading to lower operating costs.
Is ProCapture Right for Your Business?
If you’re running a commercial laundry, lint management is critical for both safety and performance. The ProCapture system is an excellent investment for facilities looking to reduce fire risks, improve efficiency, and extend the life of their dryers.
However, it’s important to note that ProCapture cannot be retrofitted onto existing machines. It’s only available on new UniMac dryers, meaning facilities looking to upgrade their equipment should consider this feature when making a purchase.
Many businesses are choosing to invest in new dryers equipped with ProCapture instead of purchasing separate lint collectors. This not only simplifies maintenance but also ensures better lint control from day one.
In Summary
Preventing lint build-up in commercial dryers is essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and performance. By following best practices—managing wash cycles, cleaning lint screens, maintaining dryer vents, and investing in advanced lint-capturing technology—you can significantly reduce fire risks and dryer malfunctions.
If you’re ready to upgrade your dryers with ProCapture technology and want expert guidance on how to prevent lint build-up, contact us today to discuss how we can help make your laundry operations safer and more efficient.
