The function of a clothes dryer is to extract moisture from the wet clothing through heat distribution and a constant tumbling action. That being said, the moisture must go somewhere. Ventless, or non-vented dryers, have a holding tank that collects the water, which must be emptied regularly. Vented dryers transport the moisture through the dryer’s exhaust duct to the exterior. The venting of moisture to the outside prevents it from building up in the laundry space and creating an environment for mold and mildew to thrive.
On the exterior end of the exhaust duct is a wall vent, a component that attaches to the end of the duct and conceals the duct opening in the wall. The function of the wall vent, or wall cap as they are called in the building trade, is to keep the moisture-filled expelled air flowing to the outside, allowing lint and particles to escape with it. Most exterior vents either have slats (or louvers), covers or a damper that opens when the dryer is on to release the discharged airflow. Other functions include keeping birds and pests outside when the dryer is not in use, as well as the elements. Keep in mind some vents perform better than others and some materials last much longer than others. That's why it is important to select the best dryer vent cover for your climate, conditions and one that complements the exterior of your home.
Dryer vents are available in several designs and materials, the most popular being either plastic or metal. If using a gas-powered clothes dryer, a metal exterior vent is highly recommended for safety reasons.
The most durable type of exterior wall vent cover is the type made of metal with a magnetic door or damper that remains closed when the dryer is not in use. When the dryer is activated, the door will automatically open from the force of the airflow. Some plastic covers with several slats (or louvers) that open when the airflow begins work well, however the slats often don’t close or seal properly when the dryer is not in use. Additionally, this type of vent is not as airflow efficient as the moist lint tends to build up on each slat, requiring more frequent attention and cleaning.
DryerWallVent® is the durable, airflow efficient metal vent of choice. Its large, clean opening keeps the lint flowing to the outside. Patented integrated magnets keep the damper closed when the dryer is not in use, deterring wildlife and pest entry into the exhaust duct. The low-profile frame, recessed damper and hidden fasteners keep exterior lines simple and allow the vent to blend in. The DryerWallVent is durable and built tough in the USA from heavy gauge Galvalume® steel with a lighter gauge steel damper. Available in four corrosion-resistant powder coated colors that are oven-baked to perfection, the finish complements every home's beauty.
Due to its durable properties, the DryerWallVent is likely to be the only vent you’ll ever need.