Compared to electric dryers, gas dryers are a more energy efficient tool for drying laundry, but they are more complicated to install. To correctly install a gas dryer it is of fundamental importance to know how to connect it and to know how to properly use the right tools. This wikiHow article teaches you how to install a gas dryer. Just start with step 1 below!
Steps
Step 1. Make sure the gas dryer is compatible with your home
Many recent models require a 117 volt power supply. So make sure your home can support it. You should also make sure that the vent on the dryer matches the vent on the wall.
Step 2. Disconnect the electricity and gas supplies
The switches must be turned off in the main electrical panel. Its location changes from house to house, but they are usually found in garages or cellars of houses, or in the entrance of apartments or in the hallways of condominiums. The gas supply is cut off simply by closing the gate or main valve. Again, its location changes from house to house.
- In many homes the main gas valve must be closed with a 12 or 15 inch plumber's adjustable wrench. Turn the valve until the gate (handle to which you attach the key) is perpendicular to the pipe.
- If in doubt about how to close the gas valve, contact the supply company.
Step 3. With Teflon tape wrap the threads of the gas pipe
This is the hose on the wall that you will need to connect to the dryer. Teflon tape can be easily found in any hardware store. This tape is used to make the pipe joints stronger and more secure.
Step 4. Attach a fitting
Screw a steel fitting to the gas pipe. Often the fittings are supplied with the dryer at the time of purchase, otherwise you can buy them at the hardware store. Explain what you need to the clerk, who can help you find what you are looking for.
Step 5. Connect the dryer to the gas hose
Screw the gas pipe valve to the fitting.
Step 6. Prepare a solution to detect any gas leaks
Mix a solution of half water and half dish soap, and pour it over the fitting. It will help you find any gas leaks.
Step 7. Open the gas
Re-open the main gas supply valve, the same way you initially closed it.
Step 8. Check for gas leaks
If there is any gas leak, bubbles will form on the solution you just poured onto the fitting. To be even safer, you could also buy or rent a digital gas leak detection device at your hardware store. Gas supply companies also often sell this type of equipment. If you detect a leak, check the connections carefully and tighten the fitting.
Step 9. Turn off the gas
Only temporarily until the installation is finished.
Step 10. Fit a vent hose
It is necessary to mount a breather system by choosing between two different types. There are rigid vent systems, composed of a rigid metal pipe, which are used for distances of less than 12 meters. There are also semi-rigid systems, consisting of a flexible tube and which are used over distances of less than 6 meters. Secure the vent hose with a clamp.
- In both types of venting systems try to avoid bends in the hose, otherwise the efficiency of the dryer decreases.
- Do not use aluminum or vinyl pipes as they are a fire hazard.
Step 11. If not already done, plug in the power cord
Purchase a cord that matches the dryer you have purchased, and an anti-tear holder to prevent damage to the cord. It should also be listed in the manufacturer's manual. Mount the tear-proof support to the power cable by passing it through the hole, open the plug cover to access the terminal blocks, connect the wires of the electric cable to the appropriate terminals, fix them with the relative screws and also tighten the anti-tear support. tear, and then refit the plug cover.
Step 12. Move the dryer to the place where you want to place it
It should remain a few centimeters away from the walls. It should also be kept in an environment that is not excessively cold, otherwise the functions of the dryer will be limited.
Step 13. Level the dryer
This is a very important step if you don't want your dryer running all the way to Zimbabwe! With a simple level check from side to side and front to back, for each edge and in the center.
Step 14. Reconnect the electricity and gas
You can now use your new gas dryer.
Advice
- Usually the main gas valve is located in front of the house. However, it could also have been placed in a cabinet built into the walls or inside the house.
- Unlike electric dryers, gas dryers use regular sockets. Therefore it is not necessary to use extension cables.
- Use only steel fittings. Those made of plastic or vinyl tend to wear out over time and in the event of small leaks they could cause a fire or threaten your health.
- Try to make a vent pipe as short as possible. This will make the laundry dry faster.
- In case the power outlet you intend to use is not of the right voltage, you will need to install a new switch. To do this, call a licensed electrician.
- Gas dryers dry laundry faster than electric dryers.
