What happens if you wash a lighter in a washing machine?

The Internet contains many shocking videos of the consequences of fires of electrical appliances, in particular washing machines. There is an opinion that if you forget a gasoline or gas lighter in your pocket and start a wash cycle, a fire cannot be avoided. Let's look at what can happen to equipment if you wash a lighter in a washing machine, and we'll figure out what to do if the device does catch fire.

What happens to the lighter in SM?

The possible fire of a washing machine after a lighter gets into it is nothing more than a myth. Even if a spark accidentally occurs when washing at too high speeds, it will be immediately extinguished by the wet clothes and water present in the drum. Thus, a lighter cannot cause a fire under any circumstances.

If a foreign object does get into the machine, just dry it completely and it will perform its functions again. During washing, the lighter mechanism or gas tank may be damaged. In this case, repair or replacement of the accessory will be required.

Damage to the integrity of gasoline lighters can lead to contamination of clothing. If the device is planned to be used in the future, it is worth drying it thoroughly and, if necessary, repairing it. The metal surface must be wiped dry to prevent further corrosion. A cheap lighter can be thrown away.

Causes of washer fire

There is nothing surprising in a washing machine fire, because it is a household appliance powered by an electrical network.During operation, the power cord, plug, socket and internal structural elements are under constant voltage. In addition, the equipment is located in a humid environment, and the combination of all these factors can lead to a fire.

Important! The main factors that provoke a fire in a washing machine are considered to be improper operation and poor-quality assembly of equipment by unscrupulous manufacturers.

Parts of the structure that are most likely to ignite:

• socket to which the equipment is connected;
• electrical wiring inside the washing machine;
• electric motor windings that sometimes get wet;
• contacts of the heating element, surge protector and other elements.

Sometimes during the washing process a strong burning smell appears without smoke, open fire or other signs. This does not mean that the washing machine will definitely catch fire. This situation is possible in two cases. Firstly, the phenomenon is often observed during the first launches of a new device, since fresh plastic elements are not yet adapted to strong heat. Secondly, an unpleasant odor occurs when foreign objects that fall out of clothing pockets or detached fittings enter the tubular electric heater. You need to clean the heating element yourself or hire a specialist to do this.

The washing machine caught fire

If a fire does occur, do not immediately call the fire department and run out of the house in panic. You can put out a fire that has just started yourself. First of all, it is important to disconnect the device from the electrical network.. The cord must be unplugged from the outlet with dry hands. It is better to temporarily turn off the electricity in the entire apartment or house.

If an open flame appears on the surface of the machine, you need to take a heavy blanket, bedspread or other thick textile and cover the device, so oxygen will stop flowing to the fire. You should not try to extinguish the fire with water or open windows and doors wide until it is completely eliminated. When no manipulations help, you should immediately call the fire department.

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