[Greenbuilding] Dryer vent backdraft solutions

[Bob Klahn]

Rob,

I've used and recommended the Heartland for years.  IMHO, it's the only 
outside dryer fixture with even a hope of preventing backdrafts - and it 
does that reliably.

It's also provides the easiest access for clean-out of the duct of any 
system I've seen or tried.

Most clients love it, once they get past the "mushroom" appearance.

  I have only heard of one complaint.  A friend, not a client, said that 
when he tried one, his dryer took longer to work.   I haven't seen his 
system and he didn't provide more detail, but this is completely at odds 
with other feedback.

I suspect that his duct run may be the real problem - too many elbows 
and/or a long flexible duct run - but I have not had an opportunity to 
check further.   I believe he mentioned that the cup never rose fully; 
also odd.  However, it was a chance comment on meeting in the street, so 
details and my memory are sketchy.

If you install one, I recommend making sure the connecting duct is - or 
converting your current exhaust run to - straight, smooth pipe; sealed 
and with the minimum length and fewest turns possible.  Where possible, 
use two 45's in place of a 90 degree elbow.  Make sure the pipe seals to 
the dryer discharge and the outside vent.  If a short, straight run is 
not practical, change the duct to 6" (most installations I see are 
usually 4"), with a reducer at the dryer if necessary.  The Heartland is 
set up to accommodate a 6" duct for a reason.

If the run is long, or convoluted, consider adding a clean-out access at 
a point that will let you sweep the full length.  (Lint build-up could 
be another of my friend's problems, and a fire hazard to boot.)

I hope this is useful,
Bob Klahn
On 9/20/2011 11:49 PM, Rob Dickinson wrote:
> I'm curious what people like for backdraft protection for exterior 
> dryer vents
>
> I've seen some positive reviews about the Heartland Dryer Vent Closure 
> -- see the following link -- and would be curious if anyone on this 
> list has experience with it.   See: 
> http://www.amazon.com/HEARTLAND-21000-Dryer-Vent-Closure/dp/B00009W3I4
>
> I've also read the marketing info on the Tamarack Technologies 
> (www.tamtech.com <http://www.tamtech.com>) Cape Backdraft Damper, 
> which seems like a good idea and well designed product.  See: 
> http://www.tamtech.com/store/one-way-air-flow-valve-6-duct,Product.asp
>
> Seiho Intl. makes high quality dryer vents with backdraft dampers, but 
> I have no idea how effective the backdraft protection is.  I would 
> much rather have an ugly vent that really prevented backdrafts than a 
> beautiful one that only works ok.
>
> Any ideas or suggestions welcome.
>
> Rob
>
>
>
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