Dryer Vent Repair: Common Problems And Solutions

Dryer Vent Repair: Common Problems and Solutions
Inferior dryer vent systems restrict airflow and lead to lint build-up which is the number one cause of dryer fires. Of course, over time, lint will build-up in even the best dryer vent system; but, you can minimize the problem with dryer vent repair and alteration.
Common Mistakes with Dryer Vents
Vinyl or Flexible Foil Venting: The old fashioned vinyl dryer ducts are flammable and they tend to sag allowing lint to build up in the low points. The ducts are often longer than necessary and the excess material is coiled up on the floor behind the dryer. The flexible foil type can get crushed when the dryer is pushed against the wall, blocking air flow.
The Solution: Replace the dryer venting with 4-inch metal dryer ducts that are smooth inside. Connect them to the dryer and the dryer vent with metal clamps and seal the joints with foil tape. Never use sheet metal screws as they protrude to the inside and catch lint.
Dryer Ducts are Too Long: When dryer ducts are too long or contain several 45 or 90-degree turns this restricts air flow. The maximum dryer duct length is 25 feet but you must subtract 2.5 feet for 45-degree turns and 5 feet for 90-degree turns.
The Solution: Try rerouting the system to make it more direct; short and straight is the ideal dryer vent exhaust system. If it is not possible to make necessary changes then you will need to install a dryer vent booster fan.
Failure to Clean: The most common mistake people make is failure to maintain and clean dryer vents. Dryer vent cleaning is recommended annually to keep clothes dryers operating safely and efficiently.
The Solution: Add dryer vent cleaning to your regular home maintenance schedule. A professional dryer vent technician can do an inspection to be sure your system is adequate and he will have the special tools and equipment to ensure the job is done correctly.
Reduced air flow from lint build-up or crushed foil venting can cause overheating and lead to a fire. It also creates stress on your dryer and leads to premature wear and tear of the appliance. When air flow is blocked, the dryer works harder, using more energy.
Glen Mayfield is a dryer vent exhaust specialist for Dryer Vent Wizard, the nations largest chain of dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation franchises in the US. They have over 50 locations; visit http://www.dryerventwizard.com to find one near you.

About the Author:
Dryer Vent Wizard is a nationwide company, Dryer Vent Wizard professionally inspects and cleans clothing dryers for homeowners and in commercially-owned buildings. Poorly maintained dryer vents cause fire hazards and cost substantially more to operate.At Dryer Vent Wizard, we take pride that we are helping homeowners and apartment managers preventdryer vent fires and other dryer vent hazards. At the same time, we are keeping their utility bills down with a semi-annual dryer vent cleaning.

Dryer Vent Repair: Common Problems And Solutions

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