Laundry Chute Maintenance Checklist

When was the last time you checked your laundry chute? Do you know when it needs to be cleaned or repaired? Read on to find out more about maintaining your laundry chute.

Laundry chutes are an important part of any home, apartments or a hotel, especially in where space is limited. They're also a potential hazard for children and pets, so it's important to keep them clean, safe and carry out maintenance on them.

Prior to maintenace
Never attempt to enter the chute or lean in without permission from the owner of the building. Only visual checks should be carried out without permission. A risk assessment should be drawn up and agreed by all relevant parties prior to any maintenance. This should include all doors to be locked with the keys handed to the person or supervisor carrying out the maintenance. If the doors are automatic and interlocking they should be isolated and only have manual access. 

Is the chute clear of debris?
If there's anything blocking the bottom of your laundry chute, it could cause damage to clothes and is also a potential fire risk and even lead to injury. Make sure that everything inside the chute is removed before using it. Also, make sure that no objects are hanging down into the chute.
If you notice anything unusual in your laundry chute, such as a large amount of debris, report it imediately. 

Do the doors open and close properly?
You should check the door handle, hinges and self closure if fitted every six months to ensure they're not loose and working to the manufacturers specifications. If they are, tighten them or seek profesional help. If any screws aren't visible or turning, They may have threaded, check the screws are tight and not turning. The laundry chute door is an integral part of a laundry chute as far as fire safety is concerned. If the door doesn't close properly there is no fire break between floors.
If you notice anything wrong with your laundry chute, such as the door is not completely closing, the door is not level or if there's debris blocking the opening and you can't repair yourself, contact the people you purchased from or seek profesional guidance. 

Does the chute have a handle?
A laundry chute without a handle isn't safe and is a number one priority when looking at maintenance. The door won't close properly without a handle so could be a fire risk.
If you live in an apartment building or work in a hotel, chances are you've seen at least one laundry chute. These handy devices allow you to drop your clothes into a lower floor without having to climb stairs or carry heavy loads. However, if you haven't used yours in a while, it might be time to check whether all parts are working properly. 

Is the chute free of obstructions?
A clogged or obstructed chute will cause a potential fire risk. The fire damper or door closer could be obstructed which would not allow it to close in the event of a fire. It's also possible for the chute to become damaged. If you notice any signs of damage, contact your laundry chute supplier or a professional immediately as this is yet another maintenance issue.
If you notice anything unusual in your laundry chute, such as a large object blocking the opening, call your landlord immediately. You could be fined if you fail to report the problem. In addition, you should check the chute every day to ensure that there aren't any items inside that could cause injury or a fire risk.

Does the chute have a damper or fire closer?
The end of the chute should have some kind of shut off should a fire occur in that area. There will be a fusible link holding these fire stops. They should be inspected every 6 months and we would recommend thay are changed for new every year.

Is there a sprinkler system fitted?
A sprinkler system should be inspeted once a year by a qualified third party but if you notice anything different or obvious damage you should report to the building owner or you supervisor.

Call Today
Contact us today and ensure your laundry chute stays safe and compliant. For servicing, repairs, or if you would like a laundry chute installing, the number to call is 01563 555881, or you can email us at info@easylinelaundry.com.