Venting Dryer in Basement
I’m looking for advice as far as venting a dryer in our basement. Our brownstone includes a basement which is completely below grade. It has a washing machine that is already hooked up as well as a space for a dryer – there is a gas line in place. This is all located in the…
I’m looking for advice as far as venting a dryer in our basement. Our brownstone includes a basement which is completely below grade. It has a washing machine that is already hooked up as well as a space for a dryer – there is a gas line in place. This is all located in the back, right hand section of the basement – very close to the door that leads to the backyard. The door is wooden, which then leads to the double metal doors on the top of the stairs. Since the entire basement is below grade, it seems difficult to cut through the house to install a vent. My question is… is there a way of venting through the doors that I mentioned above. Can I cut a hole through both dors that would allow me to vent the dryer in that direction. Also, can I set it up that I can temporarily remove the venting tube when I want to use the stairs. I can only imagine using the back stairs a couple of times a year but would want to have access to them if need be. Is this possible and can it be done that I can temporarily disconnect the ventilation tube if need be?
Also, can anyone provide any other ideas? The hookups are already in the back so venting it out of the coal chute is not an option.
Thanks for all the information (especially to Master Plumber)!!
It’s straightforward if you’re using the type of fan specifically designed to move that kind of moist, lint-laden air.
Distance is an interesting question, as well, though: is it straightforward to install some kind of an assistance fan to draw dryer exhaust through a longer-than-standard duct?
How “far” doesn’t seem to be the issue. I think the inquiry was regarding the termination point’s proximity to openings in the building.
The dryer will have its own specs as to how far you can run the vent. It may pay to move the gas line closer to the outside hatch. on our street many people have the vents coming out the front hatches directly in front of windows.
Well, ummm…I don’t know!
I’ll look it up, but I doubt that’s the regulation. A (side-wall-venting) boiler up to 500,000 BTUs only needs to vent four feet from a window or door. A typical dryer uses closer to 15,000 BTUs. I’ll get back to you.
Master Plumber, isn’t it true that by code the exhaust outlet must be at least 10 feet from the nearest operable window? I know that people do it all the time (venting wherever they can find a convenient outlet), but strictly speaking it isn’t legal.
I think Master Plvmber should do a weekly “Ask the Plumber” section. He is SO helpful!
Susan is using an indoor dryer vent kit.
I hope, Susan, that you are using it with an electric dryer and not a gas unit.
That kit only helps trap lint.
It does nothing for the carbon monoxide coming out of the dryer exhaust.
The original poster could conceivably have a flexible dryer vent hose connected to the double-doors mentioned. A simple hand-fastened clamp could secure the hose to a fitting in the door for easy removal when the door is to be used. There are a number of ways to do this.
Ask your appliance supplier for products to help facilitate your request.