How to Fix Condensation in Dryer (in 4 Steps)

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Fleet Appliance
March 7, 2022
Dryer Repair

If you’re finding your dryer is getting condensation in it after a drying cycle, you may have a problem with your ventilation system that will need to be repaired. Thankfully, most of the time, this problem is pretty straightforward to repair, and you can do it yourself without the need to call a technician.

Fixing condensation from building up is important. If you don’t do anything about it, your clothes will come out damp and may need to be re-washed or dried, which is time-consuming and increases your energy bill.

The main reasons condensation builds up in your dryer are a full lint trap, a clogged vent system, your vent isn’t positioned correctly, or you don’t have a vent flap or booster installed.

To solve the problem, simply follow the steps outlined in this article and you should be able to find and solve the root cause of the problem and fix it.

Step 1 – Clean out the vent trap

The easiest task to reduce condensation in your dryer is to clean out the vent trap. When the trap gets filled up with lint, your dryer won’t be able to dispel all of the hot air in the dryer during a cycle and condensation might develop. It’s a good idea to empty the vent after each drying cycle. To clean the vent, simply take it out of the dryer and empty it into the garbage. You can also use a vacuum cleaner if you prefer. Once clean, put it back into the dryer and proceed to step 2.

Step 2 – Clean out the exhaust duct

The next step is to clean out the exhaust duct and pipe. This should be done regularly to avoid a build-up of lint—most manufacturers recommend cleaning it out thoroughly at least twice a year.

Here’s how to clean out the vent:

Switch the power off to your dryer and unplug it.

If you have a gas-powered dryer, switch the gas supply off.

Pull your dryer out from the wall slightly and then disconnect the vent from the dryer. If it’s secured in place with a clamp, it will need to be loosened first so you can disconnect the vent.

Next, disconnect the exhaust hose from the wall.

Use a vacuum cleaner to clean out all components of the vent. If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you can use a brush and a damp cloth.

Once the vent and hose have been cleaned out, they can be reattached to the dryer and the wall connection.

Go outside and locate where the dryer exhaust comes out. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean it out from that end as well to make sure there are no blockages on that end.

After both the lint trap/filter and vent system have been cleaned, turn your dryer back on and check if the condensation problem has stopped. If not, proceed to step 3.

Step 3 – Make sure the vent is positioned correctly

If your dryer still has a condensation problem even after cleaning out the lint trap and vent system, the next step is to check that the vent is positioned correctly. This is because if your vent goes through an attic. For example, it might be making the vent hotter, and this heat can then make its way back into the dryer. Dryer vents don’t usually go through the attic due to fire risks but in some older homes, this is the only way a vent can be set up. Sometimes your vent might also go through an outside wall or under the house, which increases the length of the vent pipe which in turn causes more condensation.

To make sure your vent is positioned correctly, check if your vent goes up through your attic or a garage before going outside. If so, check if it’s possible to move the vent so it’s shorter in length and goes outside quicker. It could be possible to have your vent go through a window instead.

Step 4 – Install a booster or vent flap

It might be possible for you to install a dryer vent flap to help reduce condensation levels. The purpose of a vent flap is to open while the dryer is running through a cycle to allow hot air to exit. After the cycle ends, the flap closes. If your dryer already has a vent flap installed, check it isn’t blocked or stuck. If the flap is damaged, it will need to be replaced, which thankfully isn’t very hard or expensive to do. If your dryer currently doesn’t have a vent flap, consider purchasing one and installing it onto your vent system.

Another option is to install a vent booster (sometimes called a forced vent). These components have a fan attached to them that helps get more air out of the vent to reduce the amount of hot air that stays in your dryer which can turn into condensation. These boosters are usually a couple of hundred dollars but can be installed yourself. If you have a condensation problem, consider purchasing a vent booster.

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