Let us install that tricky new vent!

Cutting holes through walls and floors not your idea of a fun afternoon? We can help!

Our technicians are trained to correct venting problems that are often the cause of poorly performing dryers.  When cleaning does not improve the airflow, or it become apparent that there are concerns we will try to determine if the venting system meets manufacturer recommendations and applicable building codes.  Here are some basic things we check for:

• Dryer duct must be at least 4″ diameter and as large as dryer outlet.
• Concealed ducts must be rigid metal (galvanized or aluminum) duct.
• Duct joints shall be secured with metal tape, do not use screws or rivets.
• Unless otherwise permitted by dryer manufacturer, developed length of dryer duct shall not exceed 25 feet. A 45 degree elbow counts as 2 ½ feet of pipe and a 90 degree elbow counts as 5 feet of pipe.
• Joints shall be installed so the male end of the pipe points in the direction of the airflow (away from the dryer) See figure 1 below.
• Dryer vents shall be independent of all other systems and terminate outdoors. (Do not vent into another chimney or vent)
• Outside termination hood should be equipped with a backdraft damper.
• Duct backpressure should not exceed 0.6 WC (inches of water column).  Higher backpressures indicate a poorly installed vent.
• Use flexible metal connectors between the dryer and the duct. Plastic connector ducting is not recommended.

The recommendations shown above are based on dryer vent manufacturer’s information and local building code requirements. Consult your dryer installation manual for exact requirements for your dryer.