Install Dryer Vent With No Hassle
An important part of installing your dryer is the vent installation and you can really install dryer vent with no hassle. You don’t need to call a repairman. Are you ready to find out how?
The most important thing to remember is to take your time and do it right! A dryer that is not vented correctly poses several problems including becoming a fire hazard. In fact every year more than $1 million dollars worth of property occurs because of dryer vent fires.
The second problem that occurs when an install isn’t proper is that your dryer doesn’t’ dry properly and it takes much longer which means it costs you more to operate your dryer. So do yourself a favor and do it right the first time.
If you are venting in the basement its not very difficult at all. In fact it is the easiest form of venting around. Too bad these days it makes up a small percentage of installs. If you can do a straight run that’s short that’s considered the perfect install.
If you are installing in another part of your house things might not be that simple. But consider two 90 degree bends and the odd time a third bend, and about 15 feet of piping the longest run you want to make if at all possible. The metal piping is your best choice but if you must use flexible hose it is certainly readily available. It’s flimsy, poses a bit of a fire hazard, and its doesn’t last very long.
You will also need a vent cap which you will connect to the exterior wall. There are many different types available to choose from. The cheaper ones have an opening that’s around 2 ½ inches at the widest point. It’s much better to spend the little extra and get a good vent that has a 4 inch opening.
This is not the correct style vent cap for use on a roof. Rather you need a cap that has flashing built in and sheds the rain water. The good news is they are very affordable. You can vent through the roof but there are generally better alternatives than the roof. The roof has many disadvantages.
You will need one of the large clamps to secure the pipe to the fitting no matter which type of pipe or hose you use. Place the clamp on the hose then turn the screw with your slotted screwdriver.
To lint from building up over the years always tape the seams as well as the area around the screw prevent. Duct tape works great for seams and just about everyone has some handy.
That’s it – your done. Now that wasn’t tough at all was it? Now it’s time to pat yourself on the back.
