Kinds of Dryer Vents

Mounting

• Dryer vents can be loosely sorted into two groups based on how they are mounted. Ceiling-mounted vents go straight up to the roof. Wall-mounted vents exit out the side of the house. Both have pros and cons. Vents that are ceiling-mounted go straight up -- no kinks to trap lint -- but the dryer has to work harder, and rain or even animals may get into the venting. Wall-mounted vents are usually shorter, but they are also difficult to install through walls made of brick or concrete. Never vent a dryer to the inside space of your home, including to a basement or crawlspace.

Material

• Dryer vents are usually made of either plastic, foil or semi-rigid metal. Although the former two are much easier to work with, they are also more fragile and dangerous. Plastic and foil vents are easier to crush and kink, which means lint will be more easily trapped and air flow will be reduced. Instead, rigid or semi-rigid corrugated metal vents are recommended. These are much sturdier than their plastic or foil counterparts, and although they are harder to manipulate, they allow for greater air flow.

Size

• The shorter the vent, the more efficient and safe it will be. They should never be longer than 25 feet. In addition, vents should have an exhaust opening of at least 4 inches, and the exit point should have a back draft damper. This flap prevents animals from entering the venting. Screens are not recommended, as they trap debris that may block the exit.

Other Considerations

• Even if you use the proper kind of dryer vent, at the correct length and perfectly installed, it will not be effective and safe if it is not maintained. It's important to clean your lint screen after every load, and check often to make sure your exhaust duct outside of your home is not blocked. If the dryer seems to be taking a long time to dry your clothes, you may have a blockage of lint in the venting. A shop vac may be enough to suck it out, but if not, you might have to call in a professional to clean out the ducts that run through your walls.