Hot, humid air passes from the dryer through the exhaust vent hose to the outside. But this air isn't only hot and humid: it's also laden with lint, dust, and other microscopic particles. Over time, this debris can build up inside the exhaust vent, eventually preventing hot air from escaping. As a result, that warm, moist air remains inside the vent tube—and gradually turns into condensation as it cools. The solution? Inspect and clear out the vent duct so air can pass freely from the dryer to the outside.
1. VENT BLOCKAGE
2. COLD WEATHER
Hot, humid air quickly deposits its moisture when it comes into contact with cold surfaces (think of an ice-cold soda can on a hot day). If you live in a cool climate, you may find that your dryer vent "leak" is worst on particularly cold days. That's because the vent tubing itself is cold, either because the pipe is insufficiently insulated or because cold air is making its way into the pipe from the outside. Insulate the entire length of the exhaust vent and make sure the exterior vent cover is working as intended (allowing hot air to escape, but not allowing cool air to enter).
3. DAMAGED VENT COVER
As above, a damaged vent cover may allow cold air into the exhaust vent—causing hot air from the dryer to quickly cool and deposit its moisture inside the dryer vent. But a damaged exterior vent cover could also allow rain, snow, and other precipitation inside. In that case, the leak really is a leak rather than just condensation. Make sure the vent flaps move freely in one direction to allow hot air to escape, but don't remain open to allow water inside. Vent covers can be fairly easily replaced if needed.
DIY OR LET THE EXPERTS HANDLE IT?
Whether the water in your dryer vent is the result of a simple blockage or a more complicated issue, you want to get your laundry routine back on track sooner rather than later. If a DIY fix hasn't worked—or you simply want an expert to take care of it all—all you have to do is book an appointment with our local specialists and we'll handle it. It'll likely only take one visit, too.*
*GE Appliances technicians carry an extensive parts inventory on their service trucks. In the event a part is not available on the service truck, a follow-up service call may be required.
