How to Upgrade a Dryer Vent

The solution is to install a rigid-metal vent pipe. Its smooth interior creates very little air resistance, which makes the dryer more efficient, and discourages lint buildup. We replaced an 8-foot-long plastic flex hose with a smooth-metal vent and shaved 10 minutes off the drying time of a full load of clothes.

First, carefully pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the power cord. (If it's gas-fired, be sure to close the gas valve as well.) Next, use a screwdriver or nut driver to loosen the band clamp that secures the plastic vent to the exhaust outlet. Pull the vent off the outlet and vacuum away any lint you find inside the dryer. Then, disconnect the other end of the plastic vent from the ducting that goes outside. Again, use a vacuum cleaner to clear lint out of the round duct.

Slip a metal band clamp over the lower end of the periscope box vent and press it onto the exhaust outlet. Holding the vent steady, tighten the clamp with a screwdriver until it feels snug.

Grab hold of the upper section of the periscope and lift up until it's a couple of inches above the back of the dryer. Plug in the power cord (turn the gas back on if necessary) and carefully push the dryer back against the wall.

All that's left to do now is to join the box vent to the overhead duct with the vent kit. Start by attaching the lower flex vent to the periscope box vent. Secure the elbow with a band clamp.

Then slip a band clamp onto the overhead duct, insert the male end of the 90-degree elbow into the duct and tighten the clamp.

Next, pull up on the lower flex vent and tug down on the upper vent until the two ends meet midway between the dryer and ceiling. The ends of the vents have specially designed quick-lock fittings that snap together—no band clamp is needed.

After you've made all of the necessary connections, it's time to test out the revamped vent system. Turn on your dryer and verify that air is blowing through the vent hood that's mounted on the outside of your house.