The dryer duct, or tube, is at the heart of dryer venting. Major types of dryer ducts include:
Inexpensive and easy to find, foil accordion-style ducts are the most common type of dryer duct. Coiled metal wire gives these ducts their cylindrical shape. Since these ducts are metal, they are inflammable. Classified as a transition duct, this product cannot be used within wall assemblies.
Best for: Aluminum foil dryer ducts are best for saving money since these are the most common type around. Prices are usually competitive and large home centers may have several options to choose from.
This type of dryer duct looks similar to an aluminum foil duct in that it is an accordion-style flexible metal tube. It also is a transition duct that must be used outside of wall assemblies. The difference is that the metal is semi-rigid and less prone to crushing.
Best for: Since the inside of the duct is smooth, lint and other debris move more freely through the duct. If your dryer has chronic problems with lint clogging the aluminum foil duct, you may want to consider moving to a semi-rigid metal duct.
The only dryer vent that can be installed within a wall, the rigid metal duct has a smooth interior to encourage the flow of air and lint.
Best for: When you want to tuck the dryer venting tube away and see as little of it as possible, install a rigid metal duct.
Constructed of rigid metal, a slim or periscope dryer vent allows you to push the dryer back close to the wall. As a transition duct, it must be kept out of the wall assembly.
Best for: To make the dryer venting nearly invisible, choose a rigid metal duct. But if you're not ready to break into the wall, the second best option is to install slim or periscope ducting.
Once widely used, the plastic or vinyl dryer duct is no longer recommended as it is a fire hazard. Some codes do not allow these vents.
Best for: None. Vinyl venting tubes, even if available, have been surpassed by better venting tubes and may even be illegal in your area.
