Connecting a Dryer Vent
Connecting a dryer vent where the exterior wall has already been penetrated is a relatively simple process however, if you need to make a hole through your wall, the process gets more complicated. If your wall is already equipped with the necessary hook up, you can follow these instructions. Some of the things you should have in hand before you start this project are:
- Flexible metal dryer vent kit
- Foil tape
- Stainless steel gear clamps, 4” diameter
- Tape Measure
- Shop Vac
- Eye protection
- Phillips screwdriver #2
- Tape measure
- Leather work gloves
First Thing: Measure
Use a measuring tape to measure the distance from the exhaust on the back of the dryer to the vent duct on the exterior wall. Be sure to measure the exact path the venting will take, accounting for twists and turns. Try to keep the vent path as short and straight as possible and direct for the most efficient venting. Also to prevent lint buildup which can be a fire hazard. Your dryer’s specifications can help you confirm the required vent length and maximum number of elbows.
Next: Vacuum all lint and dust
You want to start the project by removing all build-up or trapped lint in your dryer before installing your new dryer vent. Start by disconnecting any existing ducting from the dryer exhaust outlet and at the wall connection. Then, remove as much lint as possible by hand and be sure to clean out the connective ducting as well as the opening to the dryer exhaust outlet and vent hood duct on the wall. After you’ve removed as much as you can by hand, use a vacuum to suck up any remaining lint. Don’t forget to clean outside, too. Remove the vent cover from the exhaust hood on the outside of your home and clean the dryer vent using the shop vac.
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Next: Select either ridged or flex metal tubing
You can use either rigid or flexible metal vent tubing. Do not use plastic as it can be a fire hazard. Both of these options come in 4-inch diameter and can effectively vent dryer exhaust. The ridges on the flex tubing can cause lint accumulation which may make the ridged ducting the better choice.
Next: Cut to Size
Make sure your vent hose is as short as workable, supported and has very little slack once it’s fully installed behind the dryer. If the ducting is long or snaking back and forth after installation, use your measurements to determine how much you need to trim for a snug fit. The excess length and bends can cause lint to accumulate.
Next: Hook it up
If you’re using the flex tubing you can use a stainless steel gear / band clamp to secure your connections. Place the clamp loosely on the edge of the vent hose and slide the edge of the vent hose over the wall outlet. Use a screwdriver to tighten the vent clamp and give it a slight tug to ensure it’s securely in place. Then, connect a second vent clamp to the opposite end of a vent hose, connecting the vent to your dryer exhaust and using a screwdriver to tighten the clamp. Tech Team’s #703 4 inch clamps https://techteamproducts.com/product/4-dryer-vent-hose-clamps/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079RSJCJN?ref=myi_title_dp are an excellent choice because they tighten with a thumb / turn key which makes it much easier if you are working in a tight space. If you are using the ridged tubing use foil tape to secure the
Next: Slide the dryer into place
Slide your dryer back into place, guiding it carefully to avoid kinks in the venting. Be sure to adjust your dryer so that the venting is as straight as possible and well supported.
Things to Consider:
Semi rigid ducting is made of aluminum ducting while flexible ducting is bendable and versatile. Semi rigid often comes at a higher price tag, but it can stay cleaner, trap less lint and maintain its shape better than flexible ducting. If you’re making your hook up in a tighter space, flexible ducting may be easier to work with. One other thing you can do is a hey siri or hey alexa search to check out other options.
