Dryer Exhaust Duct installation HELP!

[NewEngland44]

Hi. Parden my ignorance, I am a new homeowner and just not the best do-it-yourself type person, but I am willing and wanting to learn! I just purchased an electric dryer. It will be located in the basement next to the bulkhead doors and washer. We have cinder block foundation. Can anyone link me to a place that would give a novice instructions on how to install a dryer exhaust duct system? Am I to run it up from the dryer to the floor (ceiling/joists of the basement) and then thru an exterior wall to the outside? How exactly does one do this? We do have critter problems in the summer, ie. bees/wasps, etc., and I want to make sure this is as energy efficient as possible with minimal heat loss or drafts.

Any help would be very appreciated. Thanks!
Marie

[HayZee518]

If the distance to your sill is, say within 8 ft a standard 4 inch dryer kit will do. In lieu of cutting a hole in your fascia, consider the option of removing one pane of glass from a basement window, replacing it with a piece of hardboard cut with an opening 4 1/8" diameter. The dryer vent will go through this hole and a backer plate with some hardware ( machine screws and nuts) will hold it in place. Then using ty-raps or two stainless steel "radiator clamps" fasten the tube to the vent and to the dryer outlet tube.

[dev 65]

when you install the dryer duct use the metal smooth tube type not the flexible plastic or aluminum paper coated type. The flexible type have a tendency to catch lint and can cause a fire if the lint builds up in the tube.

[LazyPup]

NewEngland44

In regards to your question concerning energy efficiency. The dryer vent has a small flapper that is normally hanging down in a closed position to prevent outside air from drafting back into the house. The force of the air blowing out of the drier will open that flapper allowing the air to discharge.

Once the vent is set in place it is a good practice to periodically check that little flapper (every couple months) to insure it is not obstructed by a bird or insect nest.

Also, it it is necessary to use metal duct pipe to extend the duct run, it is best to use duct tape to connect the joints rather than screws or pop-rivets as is commonly done on heating ducts. If screws are used the ends of the points extending into the pipe will catch lint and will obstruct the duct.