Installing a Booster Into Your Dryer Vent Fan

Adding a booster into your current dryer vent fan system is a great way to extend the life of your dryer, as well as decrease the likely hood of a fire starting due to the excessive amounts of heat that is produced. This is an easy task that most homeowners can accomplish, just be aware that some models have to be installed into the house’s wiring, so check your local city codes before purchasing this type. A licensed electrician may have to be hired in order to wire the unit in, but if you do the install and have the wires ready to be hooked up, then you will still save a substantial amount of money.

Tools and Materials Needed:

  • Cable wiring
  • Junction box
  • 16 gauge conductor
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire caps
  • Duct tape
  • Sheet metal screws

Step 1 - Remove the Existing Fan

Take the existing fan out and measure the distance from the dryer outlet to the location that you want to install the booster vent into. Make sure that it is at least 6 feet from the dryer to ensure maximum safety and operation. If the current dryer ducts are plastic or flexible metal, then replace them with metal ducts that were designed for this particular usage.

Step 2 - Install the Booster

Install the booster dryer vent into the system, making sure that all of the joints and seams are tight and secure. Use clamps to ensure a tight fit, which prevent any dryer fumes to back up into the house. If the style of booster that you are installing has a basic cord, then plug it in; otherwise have the unit wired if you are unable to do it yourself. Some booster assembles can be attached into your current vent, while others may not be compatible, so check this feature before purchasing the new booster. Most of the time it is simply better to replace the entire vent with a booster vent, but this is a personal choice that you have to make.

Step 3 - Repair Necessary Ducts

Follow the entire line of ductwork and replace, or repair, any sections that appear to be damaged. In order for the booster fan to work properly, and to be able to gain all of the benefits of using one, the entire system must be in good repair. Make sure that all of the joints and seams are tightened with clamps, and that there are no crimps or bends in the corners.

Installing a booster dryer vent into your current dryer ducts is an easy job that can be accomplished in a matter of hours. If the unit needs to be wired to a power source by an electrician, be sure that you have the booster installed before they show up, which will save you a substantial amount of money. Before considering the job to be finished, be sure that the entire venting system goes outside of the house, and that there is a vent cap on the outside of the wall.