Why You Shouldn't Hook Dryer Vent to Bath Exhaust

Bathroom fans and dryers are both useful appliances, but both require adequate vents for exhaust air. This can be a challenge, especially if you are limited on space.

At first, it seems like a good solution for your dryer and bathroom fan to share a vent, but this type of installation introduces certain...hazards. But don't worry, the doctor has a prescription for this.

What's the big deal?

The simple answer: it's a matter of safety. The reason we have so many building codes is because we need to make sure the people who reside in these homes are safe. The air from dryers and bathroom fans are just too different to vent in the same duct (and we're not talking about stench).

Bathroom air is usually full of moisture and dryer vents have a lot of debris in them. Combining the two will set your systems up for failure. They'll work less efficiently and are likely to cause each other problems. Think about it - a vent packed full of wet lint.

Tip:

Clean your dryer vent often. This will help you reduce debris buildup and keep your dryer in tip-top shape.

The primary function of a bathroom fan is to suck moist (and stinky) air out of the room. If the vent is filled with debris, it's going to tax the motor on the fan, straining to move air efficiently. You might find yourself asking why the fan isn't working as well as it used to. You might even be slipping on a slick floor.

Lint can even find it's way back to the bathroom fan motor and alas, you have a fire hazard. Lint is highly flammable, we might add. That's why it's actually illegal to combine these two systems into one vent.

Read all about it here:"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018/chapter-15-exhaust-systems#IRC2018_Pt05_Ch15_SecM1502"

This is why the doctor recommends against this type of installation. If your insurance company finds out in the event of a fire, they're probably going to deny your claim. So you could kiss your home sweet home goodbye. It's just not something you want to be involved with.

So let's recap for the folks in the back. A buildup of wet, moldy lint can cause you health problems and lint near an electric motor can cause a fire. Not following manufacturers instructions means a denied insurance claim. It's a sticky situation no matter how you look at it.

If you've found this situation at home, it's best to give the doctor a call. Dr. Odd Jobs has you covered.