How to Vent a Dryer in an Internal Room

Buy an indoor lint trap filter to vent your dryer if it is located in a room that does not have direct outdoor access.

Proper venting of an electric dryer is important, even more so when your dryer is located in an interior room in the house. Not venting the dryer properly can lead to fire hazards from collected lint and health hazards due to the buildup of mold. Also, people with allergies might have problems with excess lint in the air. Luckily, venting the dryer safely from an interior room takes only a minimal investment of time and money.

Things You'll Need

• Indoor lint trap filter kit
• Screwdriver
• Venting hose, 5 or 6 feet (this may be included with indoor trap filter kit)
• Water
• Measuring cup

Instructions

1. Purchase an indoor lint trap filter. These can be purchased online or at stores that sell appliances and cost around $20 (as of 2010).

2. Mount the indoor lint trap filter to the wall about 2 feet above the dryer using the hardware included with the lint trap.

3. Fill the trap with water to the fill line. Lint trap filter sizes vary, so the amount of water needed will as well. Use a measuring cup so you do not overfill the trap. Do not fill it above the fill line indicated.

4. Fit the venting hose into the indoor lint trap filter lid. It will simply twist into the lid. Replace the lid on the mounted trap. Check to make sure the water is not overflowing. Replace the water in the filter after every load.

Tips & Warnings

• An indoor lint trap should only be used with an electric dryer. Gas dryers should never be vented inside a home.

References

• Ask the Builder
• Repair 2000
• The Family Handy Man