Dryer Vent Hose: Understanding The Different Types

Dryer vent ducts are made using a range of materials that you need to understand when working on home improvement. Most vents for dryers are around 4-inches in diameter, but that is where the similarities end. A dryer vent duct can be flexible or rigid based on the material they are made from. Despite the fact they are called dryer ducts, not all types of ducts are suitable to use with this appliance.

Some of the most flexible materials, such as a vinyl dryer hose, is not allowed by most building codes. You need to understand the differences between various types of duct to make sure you are using the right one for your appliance.

Not only are some flexible dryer duct types not allowed by building codes, but a lot of manufacturers also have their requirements when it comes to the vent for dryer duct that is acceptable. For more information regarding local building codes, leave your email address below or sign up to the spruce com, rights reserved.

Aluminum Foil Duct

The aluminum foil duct is the most common to be used in the home. These kinds of ducts are made to connect from the appliance to the main duct that is often located on a wall outside. An aluminum foil duct can be around 1 to 8 feet due to the fact it is an accordion style. This great length makes this flexible duct suitable for most installations.

It is important to check that this kind of duct is suitable for your appliance and your home local codes. Transition ducts and exhaust fittings should not be concealed inside a wall or another building cavity, as they require a maximum of 8 feet.

You can check your local codes by sending an email to the relevant governmental website, ensuring it ends in com. This kind of duct is held in place using dryer hose clamps.

Semi-Rigid Metal Duct

A semi-rigid vent cleaner dryer is typically made from aluminum and is similar to a foil duct, despite the fact it is much more rigid. This kind of duct for a dryer vent cleaner should only be used for transition, which means that it should not be concealed within walls or floors. This kind of duct is typically installed using clamps, and they have a smooth interior.

Even though these are semi-rigid ducts, the interior is smooth, which means that it will catch less lint than a foil duct. This is why it is less common to see a semi-rigid duct listed than a foil duct.

Slim Duct

A slim duct can be known by various names, including periscope duct or some brand names like Tite-Fit or Skinny Duct. This is a telescoping rigid aluminum duct that is designed for transition in tight spaces. This exhaust has a wide rectangular shape, while the two ends that connect to the dryer and outlet are slim.

Using one of these ducts means that you can push your appliance close to the wall, making them some of the best for small spaces. This does mean that these ducts can only be used when the appliance, and exhaust are close together.

Most slim ducts have the same kind of measurements and can be adjusted from 27-inches to around 48-inches in length based on your needs. These are flexible ducts that can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

Rigid Metal Duct

This kind of duct is the only one that is suitable for concealed installations, which means the part of the duct that runs inside walls and floors, as well as other areas where the duct is not visible. These ducts are available in either aluminum or galvanized steel and are very smooth on the interior. With a smooth interior, this kind of duct does not trap as much lint as many of the others. With limited lint, the air flows smoother, and there is little friction to worry about as there is less lint present.

This kind of duct cannot be bent, which means it works best when assembled in your home with elbow fittings that allow it to turn 45 or 90 degrees.

Plastic or Vinyl Duct

This is a flexible duct that is very similar to the foil one except it is made from thin plastic. This kind of duct can attract a lot of lint as it does not have a smooth interior and was once very popular. They can be installed using durable duct tape. Duct tape can secure these tubes to the appliance.

However, nowadays, a plastic duct is not allowed by most building codes meaning this kind will likely also not be suitable for your home.

Which is Best for Me?

To find the right kind of duct for your appliance, you will need to consider what type of dryer you have as well as considering local codes. To see the latest list of dryers, leave your email below to receive our guide. You can contact your local authorities using email, telephone, or accessing the office in your area.