Table of Contents
The maximum developed length of a clothes dryer exhaust duct shall not exceed 35 feet from the dryer location to the wall or roof termination. The maximum length of the duct shall be reduced 2.5 feet for each 45-degree (0.8 rad) bend, and 5 feet for each 90-degree (1.6 rad) bend.
How do you run a dryer vent long distance?
Booster Fans. Sometimes, especially in multifamily buildings, the duct is so long that it’s just really hard to push that air all the way through, even with a perfect installation and a good wall cap. In that case, you might consider adding a booster fan. It’ll keep the air moving and cut your dryer’s run times.
How far can a dryer vent run horizontally?
The required length of horizontal dryer vent pipe, from the dryer to the wall opening, is a minimum length of 12 inches and maximum of 25 feet.
Does it matter how long your dryer vent is?
A dryer vent should not exceed 35 feet in length. Furthermore, for every 45 degree turn of a dryer vent you should remove 2.5 feet in total allotted length. For every 90 degree turn, you should remove 5 feet in total allotted length.
Is it bad to have a long dryer vent?
Keep exhaust duct as straight and short as possible. Exhaust systems longer than the manufacturer’s recommendations can extend drying times, affect appliance operation and may encourage lint build-up on pipe lining.
How close can dryer be to wall?
It’s ideal to have around six inches of space behind your washer and dryer. A periscope dryer vent can save space behind the dryer.
Can you run a dryer vent vertically?
You can vent a dryer vertically as long as you don’t exceed a distance of 35 feet in length. The preferred way to vent a dryer is downward or laterally but vertically is indeed an option. There are also special considerations to keep in mind when running a dryer vent vertically.
What is code for a dryer vent?
Dryer venting systems are covered in the International Residential Code (IRC) at M1502 – Clothes Dryer Exhaust.
Can I use PVC pipe for dryer vent?
Currently, PVC, Vinyl, or aluminum foil material is still common in plumbing applications. However, manufacturers do not permit their use for venting a dryer. PVC or Vinyl duct trap can easily melt because of the hot air coming from the dryer.
Is it better to vent a dryer up or down?
It’s fine for the dryer vent to rise vertically to enter the building ceiling, but within the ceiling the vent should slope downwards towards its exit point at the building exterior wall.
Where should a dryer vent be located?
It’s best to route the dryer vent in a horizontal path to the home’s outside wall. All horizontal runs should pitch 1/4-inch per foot to the outside. This will help to avoid moisture from sitting in the pipe or draining back to the dryer.
How long can a flexible dryer vent be?
The maximum length of the duct is reduced by 2.5 feet for each 45 degree bend and by 5 feet for each 90 degree bend. The transition duct is not included in the exhaust duct maximum length. Vents can’t be longer than 35 feet and should be straight.
Can you vent dryer into garage?
You shouldn’t vent your dryer into a garage because the exhaust from gas dryers contains carbon monoxide, which can be fatal if allowed to build up in your home. Other issues that could crop up include lint buildup, mold infestation, and structural damage.
Can a dryer vent touch wood?
Yes, that is considered safe. Direct wood contact is not a problem with the operating temperature of a dryer vent. You’ll have no fire if the vent is clear. lint does not escape from the pipe if all joints are foil taped.
Should dryer vent be hot to touch?
The air coming out of a drying vent ranges from 125-135 degrees Fahrenheit. If the dryer is hot to the touch, this could indicate a fire hazard. There are multiple dryer types and numerous ways to deep clean your dryer. Finally, a dryer vent is supposed to be hot to the touch.
How much room do you need behind a dryer for a vent?
It’s ideal to have around six inches of space behind your washer and dryer.
How far should dryer vent stick out?
A dryer vent shouldn’t be longer than 35 feet in total distance from the dryer to the exterior. Adding things like 90-degree angles and 45-degree angles reduces the entire length that your pipe can run. 90-degree turns add 5 feet and 45-degree turns add 2.5 feet.
How far should dryer vent be from wall?
If the dryer is against an exterior wall that is not underground, run the duct straight out from the back of the dryer. Set the vent a minimum of 12 inches above the outside ground. Note: This is the simplest, most ideal solution. The shorter the distance and fewer the turns the better for dryer vent installation.
Should dryer vent be insulated in attic?
DRYER DUCTS DON’T NEED TO BE INSULATED. But if it’s running through a crawl space, unheated basement, attic or other unconditioned space where there’s the potential for freezing, then it is recommended to insulate the duct.
Is it OK to vent a dryer into the attic?
You’re right to be concerned. In addition to being against most building codes and a potential fire hazard, venting a dryer in an attic can result in moisture problems which could lead to rot or mold in your attic. If your laundry room has access to an outside wall, cut a hole and install a standard dryer vent.
Can a dryer vent cause a fire?
If you let that accumulate in your dryer vent over time, you could run into problems. If your dryer vent is blocked, all of this built-up lint can become a fire hazard. The heat from your dryer could cause the lint to combust, potentially catching your dryer and parts of your home on fire.
