Why Is The Laundry Room Hot When The Dryer Is Running?

Normally running the dryer will not elevate the temperature in a laundry room by any noticeable amount, which is why you should be concerned if your laundry room suddenly becomes hot while you are using the dryer. The risk of a dryer fire is a real concern as is the risk of mold growth in the laundry room from the increased humidity in the air.

The dryer vent transports the hot air from the dryer out of the laundry room and the house. Looking at the back of the dryer, you will notice a long, flexible hose that attaches to the back of the dryer. The other end of the hose connects to a vent in the side of the house. Some vents come with a length of hose that you attach to your dryer's hose. If you go outside while the dryer is running, you can place your hand under the vent on the side of the house and feel the hot air blowing out.

As you run the dryer, the laundry room will become hotter and more humid. When you notice the higher temperature and humidity, immediately stop using the dryer until you can determine the cause. The first thing to check is if the hose is securely attached to the back of the dryer. You will also want to check the other end of the hose to ensure it is secure. Duct tape will help keep the connections tight if the hose is slipping off regularly; otherwise the hot air and humidity from the dryer will keep blowing into the laundry room instead of outside.

The dryer's vent, or the hose, may become clogged with an obstruction such as lint from the dryer. With an obstruction blocking the hot air, the air will blow back into the laundry room. A dryer's vent will become clogged with lint, which accumulates in the hose over time. Your best defense against lint clogging the hose is to clean the hose out regularly using a vacuum. The vent opening outside can also become clogged by plant growth, animals or insect nests.

The flexible hose that transports the air from the dryer to the vent opening in the side of the house may become damaged, causing either air to leak out of the hose or obstructing the flow of air. Take time to regularly inspect the dryer hose for tears or holes, which will leak out dryer air and elevate the temperature in the laundry room. Also look for any portions of the hose that have been crushed or bent, which will restrict the flow of air through the hose. If your hose is damaged, home improvement or appliance stores sell replacement hoses.