During a recent trip to Oak Harbor, I came across an issue I see relatively often: dryer vent ducting discharging into a lint catchment system in the interior of the home. In this case, the ducting deposited lint and moist air straight into the garage.

There are many reasons not to do this (including so your home doesn’t smell like a laundromat). Moisture buildup (which could lead to issues such as mold growth and deterioration) and an increased risk of fire from lint accumulation probably top the list.

In other words, it’s not a good idea.

Making sure you have configured your dryer system correctly is more important than you think, and there is a definite list of “do’s and don’ts” to consider. 

By the way: Did you know the first hand-cranked clothes dryerwas manufactured in 1800? I thought you might find that interesting. I did, at least.

Do you have questions or comments about dryer vent ducting, separating whites and colors or home inspections in general? Go “All” in and tweet us (@AIHomeInspect).