Dryer Exhaust Safety & Setup Checklist

A close up of a dirty air vent with a lot of dust coming out of it.

Behind the Dryer: What to Check

Transition Duct Material

  •  Rigid or semi-rigid metal only (NO plastic or foil accordion-style)
  • UL-listed for dryer use
  • Short as possible and fully visible

Connection Method

  •  No screws (they trap lint)
  • Foil-backed metal tape (UL 181) used to seal joints
  • Secure with hose clamps or approved connectors

Airflow Direction

  • Transition duct should not kink or crush
  • Male ends of duct point in the direction of airflow
  • Entire length has a slight slope downward to the exit

In-Wall or Ceiling Exhaust Duct

Construction Material

  • Rigid galvanized steel or aluminum (28-gauge minimum)
  • Absolutely no PVC or plastic

Route and Length

  • As short and straight as possible
  • Minimal 90° turns (each adds resistance)
  • Add clean-out access for long or hidden runs

Termination Hood (Exterior)

  • Has a backdraft damper
  • NO screens
  • No bird nest or bee hives
  • Minimum 12” above ground
  • Points downward to prevent water/rain entry

DO NOT USE

❌ No duct screws

❌ No plastic, vinyl, or foil ducts

❌ No shared exhaust systems

❌ No concealed flexible ducts in walls or ceilings

❌ Do not use duct tape (it degrades with heat)

Safety for Condos, Apartments, Townhouses

If the dryer is far from an exterior wall, ensure:

  • Clean-out transition duct behind dryer
  • Do not use screws
  • Used only metal foil heat tape
  • Have a smoke detector and a fire extinguisher readily available
  • Check for carbon monoxide detectors if a gas dryer is used

Maintenance & Inspection

  • Clean the dryer vent system at least once a year
  • If using a booster fan, inspect every 6 months
  • Check the interior of transition duct for lint buildup
  • Have system inspected after renovations or new appliance installs

Certified and Cleared Technicians

All of our federal technicians are vetted through background checks and trained for secure access and sensitive environments. Each technician understands:

  • Chain-of-command protocol
  • Secure entry and exit procedures
  • Confidentiality and proper conduct on-site

We operate with respect for your operational integrity while delivering fast, effective vent cleaning.

Documented Safety Audits

We provide thorough records to meet federal auditing standards, including:

Digital before-and-after photos

Unit and building tracking

Technician names and certifications

Timestamped service logs

This level of detail helps facilities stay inspection-ready for military auditors, federal fire marshals, and other regulatory bodies.

Specialists in Multi-Facility Coordination 

Our team is experienced in organizing services across multi-structure compounds and bases. We handle logistics from initial walkthrough to clearance checks and post-service documentation so you can stay focused on your mission.

Partner With a Reliable Federal Contractor As a certified vendor in Anchorage, AK, we’re proud to support the operational safety of federal institutions. Whether you manage housing, barracks, or a federal medical center, Commercial Dryer Vent Cleaning is your trusted partner. Call (907) 531-0106 to speak with our federal compliance team and schedule your dryer vent service today.