I just bought a condo. It came with a "washer/dryer" unit, but one of the European kinds that is both a washer and dryer in one unit... needless to say it doesn't work. So, I have a washer hookup but need a dryer vent so that I can buy a real dryer and washer. The set-up is in a closet that is about 12 feet from the outside (the backside of the wall is another unit). I also live on the top floor. Can I install a dryer vent? Where would it go (up out the ceiling or do I take out the whole wall to install the vent to the outside)? Who would I call to install it? A plumber? OR is there another alternative that would be easier.

Thanks in advance!

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Originally Posted by NewCondoOwner

I just bought a condo. It came with a "washer/dryer" unit, but one of the Eurpoean kinds that is both a washer and dryer in one unit... needless to say it doesn't work. So, I have a washer hookup but need a dryer vent so that I can buy a real dryer and washer. The set-up is in a closet that is about 12 feet from the outside (the backside of the wall is another unit). I also live on the top floor. Can I install a dryer vent? Where would it go (up out the ceiling or do I take out the whole wall to install the vent to the outside)? Who would I call to install it? A plumber? OR is there another alternative that would be easier.

Thanks in advance!

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I don't have any exact answer, just a couple of points to ponder, first, when one vents damp lint, moisture upward, one usually encounters either a vent obstructed by lint or a vent that must be cleaned regularly for safefy reasons (you do not want heat backing up in the dryer ! ) - I would try to avoid going upward with the vent 2) you might want to check with the condo association if there is one just to make sure you do not violate any conventants when installing the vent and to ask if perhaps they have been asked similar questions or know of any solutions - If the dryer / closet is adjacent to a wall and the wall is not of masonry or other construction, then I am sure a vent outlet can be made. Hope this helps -

Richaredbondman's correct when he advised you to run it by the condo association first. Some of them are real picky about allowing anything that shows from the street like a dryer vent. See what the condo docs say before you attempt anything. Good luck, Tom

Thanks for the advice! Would I call a plumber to do the work?

I would'nt pay the fees of a plumber, my brother is a radiologist (MD) who retired at 55 and often comments he'd rather have been a plumber!! I think most any carpenter, reliable skilled handyman could do the job less expensive than a plumber.

Once again I agree with RichardBondMan. The NewCondoOwner asks,"Would I call a plumber to do the work?"
A handy man or condo maintenance man could do the job much cheaper. But run it by the Condo Board first. I live in a area that has many condos and the fights about flags, outside dryer vents and, in one case, a window cut in a windowless powder room are common. Regards, Tom