The Dryer Placement Mistake That's Secretly Increasing Your Energy Bill

Installing a washer and dryer in your home requires special attention to detail to ensure that the machines function properly. When it comes to dryers in particular, these appliances can cause plenty of problems if they are not installed properly. For example, you need to ensure they are able to ventilate properly to avoid the risk of fire. This is one of the more widely known downsides to improper installation. However, did you know that a dryer that is placed in the wrong spot could also cause a higher energy bill? If the appliance is placed too close to an HVAC system, it can make the area around the system hotter. The heat causes it to push out excessive amounts of cool air to bring the temperature down, which raises energy costs.

It is important to note that a well-working dryer that is installed properly should not heat up a room. However, problems like improper ventilation or a clogged vent can cause the machine to expel heat. With this in mind, you may want to consider installing your dryer away from your HVAC system as a precaution. That way, you do not have to worry about excess heat raising your electric bill through the roof if the machine does undergo any of these problems. Sure, there are ways to reduce your energy costs at home to attempt to offset the dryer problem, but you probably want to avoid this headache altogether.

Since placing your dryer near your HVAC system could cause it to work way too hard, you should install it elsewhere in your home. However, this is not always an option. There is a chance that your home already has washer and dryer hookups in a specific location. Ideally, they should be far enough away from your HVAC system. However, if they are not, you will need to ensure you stay on top of routine dryer maintenance so that you can identify and solve any problems that may cause it to emit heat as soon as possible.

If you are in the process of planning washer and dryer hookup installation, there are a few spots in your home that are a better option than others. By now, you already know that the dryer cannot be placed too close to your HVAC system. You will also need to ensure that the placement allows for your dryer vent to lead outside of your home. This can be done by installing the hookups against an outside-facing wall. Overlooking this important detail is a dryer vent mistake many homeowners make. As long as you follow the previously mentioned recommendations, you have a variety of options when it comes to selecting which room to place your washer and dryer in. Basements, garages, and bedrooms are all popular options.