Having a proper dryer ventilation is crucial in maintaining its satisfactory condition, and preventing possible water damage and fire hazards. Fortunately, installing one is easier than what you’ve probably imagined. With many dryer vent hose modifications already on the market, installing the 4-inch aluminum foil exhaust has become more convenient than ever before.
In this essence, essential tips and reminders will be relayed prior to the correct installation and what type of dryer vent duct is the most convenient, yet comes in a reasonable price.
What Is the Best Dryer Vent Hose to Use?
Among the many modifications of the dryer vent hose in the market, the best one is the kind made out of 4 ply aluminum foil, which is highly flexible, fire resistant and relatively inexpensive along with its rigid-metal vent pipe. The smooth interior induces only a little air resistance. This makes the dryer more efficient, and deters the accumulation of lint.
How To Install Dryer Vent Hose?
Older versions of vent hoses usually have an interior corrugated surface that functions like adjacent speed bumps that hinder smoother airflow. This resulting to a longer period of time to dry out clothes. More so, the interior accumulates combustible lint, which hampers airflow and could overload the motor, eventually truncating the dryer’s efficacy and function.
That being said, to keep your dryer operating at optimum efficiency, you need to vacuum inside the vent system on a regular basis.
Changing the dryer vent hose must be done atleast every 6 months. Some may have a hard time figuring out the proper method of installation, but luckily, it only comes with a low to medium level of difficulty that sheds reliability for beginners.
Choosing the best kind of dryer vent hose in line with your dryer’s model also comes at an affordable price ranging from 10 to 20 dollars (prices may vary with newer versions). On top of this, purchasing a rigid metal vent pipe and aluminum-based hose with spiraled-wire interior is a good idea. It is strong, flexible and has a modest price.
Tools And Materials Needed For Installation:
- Screwdriver
- Dryer duct tubing
- Hose clamps or aluminum tape for the joints
- Pipe straps (for long runs)
- Elbow vents
- Screws
Dryer Vent Installation in 5 Steps:
Step 1 - Strategize The Whole Process.
Dryer vent hose installation starts with a plan as to which route will the duct travel from your dryer to your home’s exterior. Gather the needed materials, and write down the measured length of the ducting. A straight path is the shortest possible route, but not always practical.
Once you have purchased the hose, if necessary, connect the hose pieces together. If you’re using a single piece of dryer vent hose, you’ll have to assemble it into one intact segment. If you’re using elbow parts, slide the corrugated end of one elbow piece into the hose. Essentially, to hold the joint pieces together, wrap the foil tape around the linked seam.
Step 2 - Hose To Dryer Attachment.
If necessary, move out your dryer and slide the bottom end of the hose, or the lower elbow piece, towards your dryer’s rear exhaust outlet. If the connection seems a bit loose, either secure the junction with foil tape or a hose clamp.
Simply cover the connecting seam with an aluminum tape, but if you’re using a hose clamp, loosen the clamp by unscrewing it, and put it on the hose. Ensure that it’s properly aligned, then tighten it to the necessary level.
Step 3 - Hose To Vent Hood Attachment.
Grab the top of the hose, or the upper elbow piece, and slide it over the vent hood’s port. Seal the seam with foil tape or hose clamps to make sure that it’s secured in place.
Step 4 - Using Pipe Straps To Fasten The Vent Hose Down.
After fully attaching the dryer vent hose, inspect to make sure that all seams are shielded with foil tape. Next, press the dryer vent onto the wall. Hold it down with the use of simple screws and pipe straps. For safety reasons, use one pipe strap for every 6” to 8” (15 cm to 20 cm) of hose to alleviate the pressure in each segment.
Step 5 - Installation Test.
At this point, it’s important to assess your dryer vent hose installation. Try switching on the dryer, then go outside to oversee the vent cap, which should be emitting warm air. If it’s not, head back inside and observe the entire segment for unchecked gaps.
Check these tutorial videos out for virtual guidance. These may help you along the installation process.
The Final Verdict
Mechanically, the dryer vent hose was invented to serve as a two-way funnel in which hot air is exhausted. Since its first use, it has been continuously modified to suit its ideal use. Having a rigid metal vent pipe also paves the way for a more reliable function. This is also true for the aluminum duct used in the process.
Always take note that such components must be intermittently vacuumed to sustain its maximum efficiency and prevent further hazards that such appliance may incur.