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.
Plastic Vents
When the dryer is activated, the airflow is channeled to the outside through several slats (or louvers) that open from the force of the airflow. Often, these slats don't close or seal very well, leading to instances of weather and water intrusion. Plastic vents that are exposed to the harsh sunlight will fade and crack over time, crumbling at the slightest touch. These vents are prone to damage from contact with lawncare equipment.
Since screens in dryer vent terminations are disallowed by building code, the vent's crumbling state provides easy access for wildlife seeking a warm place to call home. When the dryer is running, moisture tends to build up on each slat from the warm airflow coming into contact with the colder outside air, creating condensation on the slats of the vent. This moisture then attracts lint, causing it to collect, eventually impeding the dryer's airflow. It becomes crucial to include the exterior of the vent in routine home cleaning and maintenance to avoid the associated fire hazard that exists.
Metal Vents
The most durable exterior wall vent termination is the type made from metal with a magnetic door or damper that remains closed when the dryer is not in use. A perfect example of this is the DryerWallVent®. Constructed from heavy gauge Galvalume® steel with a lighter gauge steel damper, a tough layer of powder coating is applied to provide an added layer of protection against the elements and contributes to the longevity of product life. DryerWallVent®'s properties make it airflow efficient and code compliant for safe venting of the dryer's exhaust. Patented integrated magnets keep the damper closed when the dryer is not in use, deterring wildlife and pests from entering the exhaust duct. The low-profile frame, recessed damper and hidden fasteners keep exterior lines simple and allow the vent to blend in to the home's exterior. 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.