Dryer vent tubing, or vent ducts, are integral to your dryer system. The dryer vents are needed to dry your clothing, but if not properly cleaned and maintained, they can increase the risk of a house fire.
Professional residential dryer vent cleaning services are a surefire way to keep your dryer running properly. Keep reading to find out more about your dryer vent system.
Dryer Vent Tubing
Clothes dryers operate via heated air that helps to evaporate the moisture from your clothes. The dryer vent hose and tubing then carry this moisture out of the dryer. To prevent the humidity from entering your home, it is sent outside via the tubing attached to the dryer by one, and the other goes to a hole or air vent on the side of your house.
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Dryer Vent Tubing Materials
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Aluminum Foil Tubing
This is the most common type of dryer tube and usually runs in an accordion pattern up to 8 feet. However, it is incompatible with all dryer models and must adhere to local codes. It is typically secured by a large hose or dryer clamps, which can easily be removed for cleaning and maintenance purposes.
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Semi-Rigid Metal Tubing
This type is usually made from aluminum and is similar to the above in that while it still has flexibility, it is semi-rigid. It should only be used in transitional ducting and never be concealed on the floor or the wall. Similar to aluminum foil vent tubing, it is also installed with clamps.
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Slim Duct
Otherwise known as periscope duct, this type of dryer vent tubing is designed for ductwork transitioning in tight spaces, as it is made from telescoping rigid aluminum. Wide and rectangular make it easier to push the dryer close to the wall to save space. It can be adjusted from 27 to 48 inches lengthwise in most cases and adapted to diagonal, horizontal, and vertical venting installations.
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Rigid Metal Duct
This type is suitable only for duct installations fully concealed inside the wall or flooring. It can be composed of galvanized steel or aluminum. Its smooth interior allows air to flow with little to no friction, thus catching less lint than other types of dryer vent tubing. As the name suggests, it is rigid and, therefore, can not be bent. Such is the case, it is put together with elbow fittings with a 45 to 90 angle degree. With this type of ductwork, you should never use duct tape as it will dry out and deteriorate rapidly. You should also not use screws as they catch lint and are, therefore, a fire hazard.
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Vinyl or Plastic
This flexible tubing is similar to aluminum foil tubing but is made of a thin plastic wall instead of foil. While it is extremely flexible, it can easily capture lint and is not allowed per most building codes. As it can quickly become filled with lint, it tends to heat up and can be the cause of a fire.
Importance of Cleaning Dryer Tubing
Keeping the dryer vent tubing in your home free from lint and other debris is the key to keeping your home safe. Clogged dryer vents are one of the leading causes of house fires. As well, if the vents are clogged, your dryer will have to work overtime to fully dry your clothes which places additional wear and tear on your dryer as well as drives up your utility costs.
To clean your dryer tubing, turn off, unplug, and detach the tube that runs from the wall to the dryer. Use a vacuum to clean the tubing and the vent. After you have vacuumed the duct system, properly attach the tubing before operating the dryer. Don’t forget to clean out the lint trap in your clothes dryer.
Professional DRVC is recommended at least once a year to keep your system working safely and properly. Contact your local dryer vent cleaning team to schedule an appointment.