Code help for Dryer duct - InspectionNews

Mike Bossen · #1 (**permalink**) 07-01-2007, 08:49 PM

Found a dryer vent duct routed into bedroom closet then out to the exterior wall. This looks to be a DIY job and was such written up as improper installation and fire hazard. However, the buyer would like to get some code references to the proper installation. Any help is greatly appreciated.

John Arnold · #2 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 05:09 AM

I didn't see anything in the 2006 IRC clothes dryer section that would forbid this, unless the manufacturer does, for some reason.

Mark Nahrgang · #3 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 06:23 AM

I don't see why it's a problem. It's a metal duct. I have a "standard" comment that I put in virtually every report to be sure to keep it clean. Other than it taking up closet space I'd not even mention it.

Phillip Stojanik · #4 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 07:40 AM

What is the overall developed length of the pipe run? Is that a sheet metal screw I see in the piping at the bottom elbow? Are all of the joints sealed with an approved duct tape (bottom elbow again)? Have the pipe joints been made in the direction of flow?

I can't really tell enough from the photo but any one of these could be a potential problem from a code/fire hazard perspective.

Even outside of the code it would be fair to say that it is not a "standard and customary practice" to run a dryer vent through a clothes closet.

BARRY ADAIR · #5 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 08:37 AM

Mike,

Try the archives

Dryer vent - Home Inspection & Home Inspector Services For Inspections and Inspectors

or this
Dryer Venting Guidelines - How to avoid dryer fire hazards

Jerry Peck · #6 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 08:58 AM

Nothing prohibits that, however, your client will want to protect that from physical damage by installing some type of protective chase around/over it.

Code is minimum, not common sense.

As others have stated, make sure the male end is inserted in the female end in the direction of flow - no ridges which may collect or catch lint are allowed. Neither are screws.

Remove that "ducK" 'ducT' tape and use real "duct" tape on those joints before installing the chase over it.

Mike Bossen · #7 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 05:48 PM

Thanks for all of the input from everybody. All of the problems that were mentioned in the replys were addressed in the report and the buyer is planning on complete removal of this setup and re install in a more appropriate location. The buyer was just hoping to find some code references to help with negotiations but does not sound like the codes specifically address installation such as this. No matter, as it will be corrected regardless. Thanks again for the input.

Jerry Peck · #8 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 05:53 PM

Mike,

You will frequently find that code does not address stuff you find, because 'code' is only addressing *the minimum crappiest way one is legally allowed to do things*, no worse.

'Building to code' just means the builder is building 'crap'.

Richard Rushing · #9 (**permalink**) 07-02-2007, 07:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerry Peck

'Building to code' just means the builder is building 'crap'.

Soooooo... when we have minimalist inspectors (SOB) it just means that they are inspecting like crap.

Rich