How to Install a Dryer Vent in a New Home
Clothes dryers, whether they are gas or electric, dry your clothes with a combination of motion and warm air. This warm air needs to go somewhere after it does its work, which is where the dryer vent steps in to funnel the air away. You can install a dryer vent in your new home and get your dryer ready for cleaning in its new surroundings. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Marker or pencil
- Drill
- Drill bits
- Jigsaw and blade
- File
- Dishwasher soap
- Dryer vent hose
- 2 hose clamps
- Screwdriver
Instructions
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1
Position the circular part of the dryer vent on the wall where you want to place the vent. Draw a circle around the vent pipe with the pencil or marker.
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2
Attach the appropriate type of drill bit to your drill. For cutting through masonry, for example, attach a masonry cutting bit to your drill. Drill a hole at the top of the hole. Continue drilling through the perimeter of the circle. In softer materials, such as drywall, you may be able to use a jigsaw to drill out the circle once the first hole is drilled.
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3
Sand down the edges of the hole, using a file.
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4
Go to the outside face of the vent exhaust opening. Insert the dryer vent into the opening until it is secure.
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5
Go to the inside portion of the vent pipe. Lightly coat the outside of the vent pipe with a few drops of dish soap. Slip the end of the dryer vent over the exhaust inlet. Secure with a hose clamp.
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6
Connect the other end of the hose to the dryer outlet. Secure with another hose clamp.
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7
Run the dryer. Check that the hose is secure and not leaking. Caulk around the spaces between the wall and the dryer vent with weatherproof caulk.
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Tips & Warnings
There are a number of factors to consider when picking a position for your dryer outlet. These outlets should be mounted on an outer wall or roof to your new home. In addition, the dryer outlet may need to be set a certain number of inches above the ground. Consult your local building codes to find out what governs dryer venting in your municipality. In addition, check the area where you plan to drill the hole and ensure there are no electrical outlets, cables, or plumbing in the area.
