Dryers require strategic venting systems to function properly and efficiently. They also require maintenance and cleaning every year after being set up to ensure optimum airflow which helps prevent clogging by lint, a major fire hazard.
The first step is to arrange for an installation, choose your setup option, and consider the materials needed. Here we have a step-by-step process of venting a dryer through the floor. Keep reading.
The 4-Step Process
When choosing a spot to install the vent, the general rule dictates using the shortest route which will ultimately be the most cost-effective option. Dryer manufacturers recommend keeping vents below 60 ft and subtracting 10 ft after every 90-degree turn.
Therefore for a complete installation, you need up to 35 feet but always consider that a shorter route is the most desirable.
1. Decide On The Venting Option
Before you hit the ground running, the first step is to decide on the best venting option that will suit your needs. Worth noting, that every option you choose has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Depending on your dryer location, you can choose to vent straight through the wall if it’s located near the outside wall or drill below the house before passing it out through the foundation.
If you opt for drilling straight through the wall, you may encounter obstructions such as wires, pipes, and studs. However, you can achieve the shortest route through the wall using this method.
Also, you’re not likely to experience clogging issues, and clean-up will be straightforward.
Venting below the house or floor is more convenient because there are no wires or studs underneath that may interfere with your installation.
Also, you’ll find that foundations are made of brick and, in most cases, these are easy to navigate with the duct and seal.
However, it’s a long route with many bends restricting proper airflow. In addition, clean-up is often difficult, and you may have to involve a professional to do the job effectively.
The last option is venting above the roof. It’s not recommended unless necessary because clean-up becomes an issue. It’s costly, and you will need to regularly clean at least twice a year and with a ladder and vacuum.
2. Gather Materials
After deciding on the venting option, the next step is to gather the materials for the task. Here is what you will need.
- Screwdriver
- Tin snips
- Chisel
- Hammer drill
- Drill bit set
- Corded drill
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Hearing protection
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Caulk gun
You can buy the purchases from hardware stores near you. Moreover, always have the materials ready to avoid a return trip to the store.
3. Choose The Right Dryer Vent
After gathering the materials, you can now choose the right dryer vent. I highly recommend a flexible vent duct because it has no limitations and cannot sag or trap lint.
A flexible metal will also hold its shape on turns and bends. However, it can’t work well with a vent clamp, unlike the rigid option. In this case, you’ll need to use duct tape.
I don’t recommend a plastic or foil pipe because these are fire hazards and the vents may sag, which can cause water to collect on the sagging points.
I suggest buying The GE Store 8 ft Flexible Dryer Vent which is a semi-rigid, flexible metal.
It consists of a five-layer aluminum metal that is crush and fire-resistant.
Therefore, this prevents lint from being trapped, thereby ensuring continuous and maximum airflow.
In addition, the flexible design enables a 90-degree turn; thus, there’s no need for elbows. You’ll get a value package with the purchase as it contains steel screw clamps and a UL duct.
As a matter of caution, when using a flexible metal, you need a continuous vent; therefore, buy a longer duct. Notably, only rigid metal can be pieced together.
4. Venting Through The Floor
When venting through the floor, you’ll need first to drill a small hole where the vent will pass through. It also helps in finding a suitable location to sketch or outline the dryer vent.
After determining the position of the hole, using a chisel and drill hammer, mark or draw the duct’s shape.
Next, hit continuously until there’s a larger hole inside the brick. Ideally, ensure the hole is larger than the vent for the latter to go through it with ease.
You need a 90 degrees vertical drop into the floor truss system, a few inches of a sleek vent, and another 90-degree bend horizontally. You may also require another 90-degree turn, depending on the depth.
Next, run the vent a few feet horizontally towards the back of your house. Have a 90-degree horizontal rotation to the exterior wall and run the duct via the band joist and outside vent.
Attach securely to the wall and coat the edges of the duct with caulk chalk. Finally, cover the duct outlet with a vent cover to keep birds, rodents, and dirt away.
Useful Tips
If your dryer is located on the upper floor of a multi-story building with a crawl space foundation, venting can be a little complicated. It’s important to involve the building contractor to avoid running an installation that will result in a leak in your neighbor’s house, patio, or outdoors. Such complications can lead to property damage lawsuits.
Another possible problem would arise if you live in rented accommodation. In this case, you’ll need to involve the property manager before drilling through the walls, roof, or floor. Overall, it’s vital to be aware of the building regulations or codes in your state or city before venting.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are various options available to vent a dryer. You can vent via the wall floor or run a conduit vertically via the roof. The most viable option when venting via the floor is to use the shortest route possible.
It will cost less in terms of materials use and maintenance. In addition, ensure you have the right tools for the job and a flexible duct made of sturdy metal for stability.
We hope this piece of information is enough to help guide you through the entirety of the process.
