How to Install a Dryer Exhaust Vent
Dryer exhaust vents provide proper air flow and circulation for your dryer. The hot air inside the dryer also gathers up debris and lint as it circulates. A dryer exhaust vent allows the dryer to expel this excess material out of the system. Most vents are made out of either plastic or metal and connect to your dryer's exhaust hose with a hose clamp. The time it takes to install a dryer exhaust vent will vary, depending on the wall material where you want the vent mounted. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Dryer vent exhaust
- Pencil
- Power drill and bits
- Jigsaw (optional)
- File
- Hose clamp
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Instructions
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1
Check local codes in your area regarding dryer vent height. Some municipalities require that the exhaust be a certain number of feet off the ground in order to help prevent the hot air from igniting fires.
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2
Place the dryer vent on the wall where you want the exhaust to be located. Face the vent toward you so that the circular part of the vent sits flush on the wall. Trace around the vent and draw a guideline on the wall.
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3
Attach a drill bit to your drill. This could either be a masonry bit or a standard bit, depending on your wall type. Drill a hole at the top of the circle. Either continue drilling holes along the perimeter of the circle, in concrete, or use the first hole as a starter to cut out the hole with a jigsaw.
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4
Sand down the edges of the hole with a file.
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5
Go to the outside wall. Insert the dryer exhaust vent into the wall, with the circular end first. Continue gently pushing it into the wall until the vent is flush with the exterior wall surface.
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6
Apply a few drops of dish soap to the circular portion of the vent. Slip the end of the dryer exhaust hose over the vent end. Secure with a hose clamp, using the pliers or screwdriver, if needed.
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7
Run the dryer and check for proper operation.
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Tips & Warnings
The above steps are just a guideline. Follow the specific instructions for your dryer vent model.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
