How to Install a Gas Dryer

Gas dryers are more efficient than electric ' and more trouble to install. Making sure the connections are tight is the most essential thing.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dishwashing Liquid
• Gas Dryer
• Ducting & Tubing
• Hose Clamps
• Dishwashing Liquid
• Puttys & Sealers

1. Make sure that your outlet and dryer requirements are the same. Most new gas dryers are 117 volts.

2. Check to make sure the vent hole on the dryer is compatible with the vent hole in your home. If it is not, you will have to make a new hole or get a different dryer.

3. Turn off the breaker or breakers feeding the dryer outlet.

4. Be sure that the floor is clean and dry.

5. Shut off the gas feeding the line.

6. Put pipe dope on the threads and screw a stainless steel connector to the pipe.

7. Mix a solution of 50 percent water and 50 percent dishwashing liquid.

8. Put the solution on the connections and turn on the gas. If there are leaks, you will see bubbles.

9. Turn the gas off, back the connector off and retighten it if you discover a leak.

10. Fasten the vent hose to the duct leading outside with a hose clamp - a circular metal ring that resembles a tie wrap with a bolt on top.

11. Plug the dryer in and move it into place, hooking up the vent hose when you can reach it.

12. Use a hose clamp to fasten the hose to the dryer's exhaust port. Keep the vent hose as short as possible to reduce drying time.

13. Push the dryer the rest of the way into the space, being careful not to crimp the hose. Leave a couple inches of space on both sides of the unit to allow for circulation.

14. Turn on the breaker and gas.

Tips & Warnings

• Call a licensed electrician to change the outlet if it's the wrong voltage; a new breaker will have to be installed.
• Contact a licensed plumber if you have problems with anything gas-related.
• Put your owner's manual in a plastic bag and tape it to the side of the dryer.
• Ducts should be cleaned every two years to keep lint from building up and causing a fire.
• Use only stainless steel connectors and tubing and smooth, flexible metal duct. Plastic and vinyl have a tendency to degrade and will pose a fire and health hazard if they leak.