Exhaust ducts shall be constructed of minimum 0.016-inch-thick (0.4 mm) rigid metal ducts, having smooth interior surfaces, with joints running in the direction of air flow. Exhaust ducts shall not be connected with sheet-metal screws or fastening means which extend into the duct. The IRC will defer to the manufacturer’s instruction, so if the manufacturer’s recommendation permits a longer exhaust vent, that’s acceptable. An inspector probably won’t have the manufacturer’s recommendations, and even if they do, confirming compliance with them exceeds the scope of a General Home Inspection.Venting regulations ensure safety as well as proper dryer operation. Most home inspectors in the United States, when citing regulations pertaining to dryer venting, refer to the International Residential Code, although codes in certain states may have additional provisions. The IRC provides standards for one- and two-family dwellings of three stories or less. Its specifications for dryer venting are intended to prevent fires, protect the dryer and ensure that warm, humid air from the dryer doesn't cause damage to interior woodwork or mold-related health problems.

Vent Termination If you're planning to direct your dryer vent into a bucket of water next to the dryer, the IRC has one word for you: "Don't." fresh air cleaning llc reviewsYou must terminate your dryer vent outside the building, according to section M1502 of the IRC. air cleaner clearance issuesThis also means that you can't blow the dryer exhaust into the attic or the crawlspace. air purifier australiaThis regulation prevents lint from building up indoors and creating a fire hazard and warm, moist air from promoting rot and mold. The regulation prohibits screens at the outdoor vent termination -- they collect lint which eventually blocks the vent. Vent Material and Length Running corrugated plastic ducts through the crawlspace may seem like a convenient venting solution, but it doesn't comply with the code.

Section M1502 requires that vents be constructed of smooth metal ducts fastened without screws that extend into the vent and collect lint. It is better to join the pipes with foil-backed duct tape. The vent should be as straight as possible, and the code sets a limit of 25 feet on its length. If you have to install bends, you should reduce this limit by 5 feet for every 90-degree bend and 2 1/2 feet for every 45-degree one. Considerations According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the IRC defers to dryer manufacturers in specifying such details as the length of the vent and the number of bends it can contain. Some manufacturers design their machines to work with much longer vents. The IRC also leaves it up to the dryer manufacturer to specify the diameter of the vent hose to use. It allows homeowners to use one 8-foot length of flexible pipe to transition from the dryer to the exhaust pipe. This length of flexible pipe must remain visible and accessible so it can be removed and cleaned.

Condensing Dryers Condensing, or ductless, dryers have been common in Europe, Japan and other space-conscious countries for years, and they are an option for locations that are too far away from an outside wall for proper venting. They work by drawing in room air or using a fan to cool the exhaust, condense it into a liquid and route it into a bucket that the user empties at the end of the drying cycle. The International Mechanical Code and the IRC both make venting exceptions for these types of dryers. References International Association of Certified Home Inspectors: Dryer Vent SafetyEnergystar.gov: What is IRC?U.S. Department of Energy: Ventilation Requirements for Condensing Clothes Dryers - Code Notes Photo Credits IT Stock Free/Polka Dot/Getty Images Suggest a CorrectionPeople who suffer from allergies may be considering duct cleaning to improve their health and increase the efficiency of their home air-conditioning system. Glossy advertisements often promise to clean every duct in your home for around $100.

But what do you get for your money and will it really do any good? Here are some things to consider before hiring a duct cleaning company: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) http://www.epa.gov/, there is no scientific evidence that duct cleaning improves air quality or prevents health problems. However, the EPA recommends duct cleaning when mold is visible or the ducts have become clogged with dust that can be released into your home. A license is required for contractors who provide duct cleaning services. //pzb/Contractors/ to verify that the duct cleaner’s license status is active. Be wary of companies that want to clean ducts without inspecting them first or offer services at a very low price without providing details as to what the price actually covers. Get a written estimate in advance. A careless technician can damage your ducts. Ask for references and get quotes from at least three licensed companies. If they pressure you into buying additional services, find another company.

Call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 888-852-7362 toll free) /publicsafety/consumeraffairs/ to see if other consumers have had complaints against the company you are considering.Americlean Services Corporation is proud to be affiliated with the following professional industry associations and licensing agencies: NADCA – National Air Duct Cleaners Association (*see below) NFPA – National Fire Protection Association IAQA- Indoor Air Quality Association DPOR – Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation NRSB – National Radon Safety Board Our customers can expect superior service from a knowledgeable staff. Below is a list of the licenses held by our team of professionals. Master HVAC License (DPOR) Virginia Class A License (DPOR) Virginia Asbestos Abatement License (DPOR) Virginia Radon Mitigation License (DPOR) Air System Cleaning Specialist (NADCA) Ventilation System Mold Remediator (VSMR)