Screws should never be used to secure gas dryer vents as they will trap lint and potentially catch fire!
7.5.3 – A moisture-exhaust duct shall not be secured with screws.CSA B149-1
Every year there are over 40 house fires in Toronto alone that are started from gas dryers. Did you know that your vent must checked and cleaned out at least once a year?
Just because you have had one for decades, it doesn’t mean it has met code regulations or can be swapped out with a new one. It is best to consult with a gas technician before ordering our new gas dryer to ensure it can be installed. Installation codes specify minimum clearances that must be met and maintained. Below are some things to consider when installing/operating your gas dryer.
Clean your dryer lint trap after every use. Lint accumulation on this screen restricts the flow of exhaust gases and decreases efficiency of your unit.
Heat recovery traps are also prohibited for gas dryers. Any combusting appliance will create some level of carbon monoxide. We do not want to allow any opportunity for this hazardous gas to enter the house.
Whenever possible, use rigid venting for gas dryers. The corrugations in the ‘flex vents’ will act as restrictions for the lint and cause them to build up over time.
Vent terminations have to be at least 3 ft away from any intake into the house. In addition to this, they cannot have any screens on them. A metal flap is the preferred vent to use.
