Dryer Vent - aluminum vs galvanized

[dkooda]

Hi,

I'm trying to figure out a nice clean and efficient way to vent my dryer. I have a 15ft run and want to have as few joints in the venting as possible. The only aluminum venting I can find around here comes in 2' lengths. Too many joints for my liking, so I thought I'd use galvanized instead (as it comes in longer lengths).

Problem is, my terminating vent (previously installed) is aluminum. The 4" galvanized vent is larger than the 4" aluminum. In fact, I can slide the aluminum vent easily into the galvanized.

My question is this - how can I join the galvanized to the aluminum without creating a 'lint trap' in the line? Given my rise, run and number of turns, I'd prefer to avoid any type of flexible venting. Are there other options or do I need to go with 2' lengths and live with a bunch of joints?

Thanks in advance.

Dan

[jeff1]

Hello,

I have a 15ft run and want to have as few joints in the venting as possible.

Can I ask why you don't want the joints?

Usually installed correctly ( taped and no screws ) with the joint facing the correct way the joints are no problem.

Galvanized is so expensive as well :(

The only aluminum venting I can find around here comes in 2' lengths.

You can get 5 and 6 foot flexable vent sections as well...

http://www.repairclinic.com/dbimages/00000053/00015111.jpg
http://www.repairclinic.com/dbimages/00000053/00015057.jpg

Also has an 8 foot..

http://www.repairclinic.com/dbimages/00000049/00013987.jpg

But I see "I'd prefer to avoid any type of flexible venting"

Problem is, my terminating vent (previously installed) is aluminum. The 4" galvanized vent is larger than the 4" aluminum. In fact, I can slide the aluminum vent easily into the galvanized.

If a galvanized hood is available that might help...but it may be possible to slice the galvanized pipe and squeeze it in slightly so it will fit inside the 4" aluminum and then tape the joint.

PVC works well for long runs, but most ( all? ) manufactures do not recommend this!

jeff.

http://www.applianceaid.com/images/venting%20a%20dryer.JPG

[dkooda]

I have a rise out of the dryer of almost 8 ft. The rest is a horizontal run. I wanted to avoid flex venting because I was afraid I'd lose too much of my airflow and end up with moisture and lint in the line.

I didn't want too many joints because at least part of the vent will be exposed in the room. My preference for fewer joints is merely for cosmetic reasons.

I'll have to check with my home improvement store. I don't recall seeing a galvanized hood.

I tried slicing the aluminum end piece and slipping the galvanized in, but it wouldn't go. Maybe I could fashion a piece from raw materials (a sheet of galvanized sheet metal). Hmmm, that would take me back to my high school days <g>. I guess my dad would be proud, as he was the hard metals teacher...

Thanks.

Dan

[jeff1]

Hi,

I wanted to avoid flex venting because I was afraid I'd lose too much of my airflow and end up with moisture and lint in the line.

The plastic and shinny super fles is bad for this....the aluminum flex is different and better...but the solid metal is best!! That is what I have.

Maybe I could fashion a piece from raw materials (a sheet of galvanized sheet metal)

I don't think the 4" would help...but maybe the 6" can be home made into a fitting...

http://deflecto.com/images/products/product/DACglam.gif

Product Description:
6" dia. aluminum duct connector
From http://deflecto.com/

The aluminum should be easier to work with to make a fitting than the galvanized would be.

Hmmm, that would take me back to my high school days <g>. I guess my dad would be proud, as he was the hard metals teacher...


LOL!! :)

jeff.