When having a home inspection of the condo that we are in the process of purchasing, we found that the dryer was vented directly into the basement ( where the dryer is located ). There are no windows and we do not yet know if we would be allowed to cut a hole to vent to the outside of our unit. The home inspector suggested that we maybe able to vent to the sewer line, which is located next to the dryer. He said that the pipe was large enough. Would anyone have any information on how this works, what conditions make it possible to do, and what any drawbacks maybe? Thank you
2007-06-14 13:34:35 · 11 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
no way sewer gas is very explosive methane ps they make a ventless dryer kit
2007-06-14 13:38:19 · answer #1 · answered by bozotexino 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I would almost think about calling another inspector. Venting a dryer through the sewer line? I have heard some crazy ideas, but this is a new one.
Possible problems. First thing that comes to mind is if there is ever a blockage in the waste line, sewage could back up into your dryer. Can't imagine anything much worse than that. At the very least, you could get condensation from the sides of the waste line or rain coming in where the vent exits the roof. Those are not capped.
Next problem, the vent on your waste stack has to far exceed the maximum vent length for the dryer. It would be almost as bad as blocking the vent altogether.
Dryer vent lines should be cleaned from time to time. How are you going to clean that? The moisture that is going to be present in the waste system would make lint buildup even worse.
There is a good chance your waste lines are PVC. Not an acceptable material for a dryer vent.
So many problems with this.
On another note, leaving the vent in the basement is not an acceptable plan either. The lint and heat are obvious problems, but the moisture is the big deal.
2007-06-14 20:44:59 · answer #2 · answered by be_a_lert 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I would be extremely cautious about this problem. I would call your city building inspector and ask about this situation. It seems to me that with no ventilation there could be a moister problem because dryers often blow out small amounts of moister. If your are buying a condo you should be able to check with the association they usually require you to join if not go ask some of the other condo owners; it is likely they have the same situation and will share their personal experiences with you. Sometimes a bad design falls through the cracks and you sure want to know now than later. Do not vent into the sewer line; you will have foul odors continually and I am not certain this is legal in any area of the country. If you look at that sewer line it is capped and normally is never opened unless you need professional services which are rare. Good Luck.
2007-06-14 20:44:39 · answer #3 · answered by katship 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
What planet was that home inspector from? Venting your dryer to a sewer line, sounds like future headaches. Your best bet is to check with the person in charge on site, as to whether or not you can cut a hole to vent the dryer outside. Good luck!!!
2007-06-14 20:45:53 · answer #4 · answered by Shortstuff13 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I can tell you as a matter of fact that the inspector gave you bad advice. In fact it could be hazardous if enough sewer gas gets into the dryer to spark and fire. Run a 4" dryer vent pipe out though the rim joist and put a dryer vent cover on it.
2007-06-14 20:56:07 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
An inspector suggested this?? The most obvious drawback would be that when a dryer vent is closed it is not sealed shut. This would allow sewer gas to escape through the dryer which not only would ruin your clothes but is very dangerous to your health.
2007-06-14 20:40:38 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
At the hardware store you will find a small plastic box that hooks up to the dryer vent. you fill it with water, and the water traps the escaping lint. This is a very common fix for not having an established exterior dryer vent. BEWARE. using this type of vent will definitely increase the amount of moisture in the air ( humidity!) of the room it is used in. This little unit sells for about $10
2007-06-14 22:38:46 · answer #7 · answered by axenboots 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
NOOOOO Do not vent the dryer into the sewer pipe under any circumstances. If your home inspector did not know this, you should find a new inspector who knows his business.
2007-06-14 22:15:40 · answer #8 · answered by Jeffrey S 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You don't think sewer gas and stink would come into your home through the dryer vent?
Very bad idea.
2007-06-14 20:44:16 · answer #9 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
After not doing this I would report this inspector
2007-06-14 20:44:12 · answer #10 · answered by wiredlow 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋