Should a dryer vent have a damper?
Should a dryer vent have a damper?
The Uniform Mechanical Code requires clothes dryer exhaust ducts terminate outside the building and have back-draft dampers. Check with your local code official to learn of specific requirements in your area. The ability of back-draft dampers to prevent cold air infiltration varies with design and maintenance.
What is a dryer vent backdraft damper?
The Cape Backdraft Damper will stop even the slightest amount of air from entering your home through bath fan ducts and dryer ducts. The specially designed sleeve closes down when the fan or dryer is off preventing any outside air from coming in.
Where should backdraft damper be installed?
Install back-draft dampers where the exhaust duct meets the exhaust fan in each fan unit. The dampers should open when the fan is actively exhausting and should shut when the fan is off (Figures 1 and 2).
How do I keep cold air from coming into my dryer vent?
An airtight louvered vent If cold air comes into your laundry room through the dryer vent, you should be able to stop it fairly easily. The vent should have a flap (or flaps) at the end to stop air infiltration (see photos). Go outside and make sure there’s a flap and that it’s not stuck open.
Are back draft dampers required on residential clothes dryers?
Dryer exhaust ducts for clothes dryers shall terminate on the outside of the building and shall be equipped with a backdraft damper. Screens shall not be installed at the duct termination. Ducts shall not be connected or installed with sheet metal screws or other fasteners that will obstruct the exhaust flow.
What type of venting do you need for a gas dryer?
Dryer exhaust must not be connected into any gas vent, chimney, wall, ceiling, attic, crawlspace, or a concealed space of a building. Only rigid or flexible metal vent shall be used for exhausting. Only a 4″ (102 mm) heavy metal exhaust vent and clamps ■ may be used.
Does a gas dryer need an exhaust vent?
Since gas dryers produce carbon dioxide as a by-product of combustion, they should always be exhausted to the outside. Outside venting is also important to prevent the exhaustion of water vapor from damaging structures or causing mold and mildew growth.
Why is cold air coming in through my dryer?
Cold air drafts in your laundry room are often caused by stuck dryer vent flaps or faulty caulking. These drafts cause your heater to work harder to warm the home during winter months, which may increase your heating bill.
Do I need a special vent for gas dryer?
Gas dryers must always be vented. When gas dryers are running, the combustion that takes place inside produces carbon monoxide, which must be vented either outdoors or into a suitable HVAC ventilation system. Most electric dryers also require venting to keep from blowing hot, moist air into the home.
What kind of vent do I need for a gas dryer?
Exhaust from gas dryers must be vented outside because it contains carbon monoxide. Outdoor dryer vents, on the other hand, are suitable for dryers with any power source. This style runs through an external wall, ending in a dryer vent cap outside of your home.