Our friend, Dave, who is an owner of water damage companies Rockford, told my husband that you should never run your washer or dryer if you are not home. I used to do that all the time and think nothing of it. I guess the washer can burst and flood your basement and the dryer can start on fire. I had not thought of that. The dryer especially scared me. Since I heard that I no longer wash or dry clothes if I am not home. If I started the dryer and have to leave I will shut it off before I go.