Austin Home Inspection Picture of the Day - The Dryer Exhaust Vent
When I do a Home Inspection there are a few things that almost always show up on a Home Inspection 
Report. On thing that I see all the time is clogged and dirty Dryer Exhaust Vents. Clogged and dirty exhaust vents can greatly reduce the efficiency of the dryer and can even become a fire hazard. That's right folks, I'm sure you've heard of cases of dryers catching on fire resulting in loss of the dryer, parts of the home or in some cases entire homes.....from a dirty dryer vent.
In the picture to the right the dryer exhaust vent is almost completely constricted. Dryer manufacturers recommend that you clean the lint trap after each use of the dryer. A clean lint filter allows air to properly flow from the dryer to the exterior of your home. It also helps the dryer to operate at maximum efficiency. Clogged dryer vent piping is just as inefficient as a dirty lint trap. Cleaning a exhaust vent is not as convenient or easy but should make the "to do" list at least twice a year.
Another problem I see all the time when doing Home Inspections in Austin are Dryer Vents that stick in the open position. Again, they normally stick open when they're clogged with warm, moist and sticky lint fresh from the days wash. But, an opening the size of a dryer vent is extremely attractive to birds looking for a place to nest, bats, rodents, bees and a multitude of other insects and pests.
Modern Code allows for a dryer exhaust vent to be a maximum of 25 feet long. But, if the vent pipe cannot be run straight it is recommended that the total length be reduced 2.5 feet for each 45 degree turn and 5 feet for each 90 degree bend.
Dryer exhaust should never be directed into the attic or under the home. It is never a good idea to introduce a source of moisture into these places.
Thanks for checking in and have a great day,
Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services
"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"
512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com
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