If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. If you suspect there are animals in the vent, you can call a pest control company to come clear it out before you cover it. If you prefer a vent cover that doesn't flap, consider buying an outdoor metal dryer vent cover designed to keep out birds and small animals. Bird proofing dryer vents is relatively easy. The Wall-E-COVER, deep dryer vent cover is a new solution to an everyday problem. Covering up unused vents will block out drafts and moisture, which can reduce energy use and prevent moisture-related problems. They comprise a cup that completely encloses the vent opening when the vent is not turned on. You may need to drill pilot holes in the wall for the screws. If you have a full house, such as if you live with a family with several kids, you might have to clean the vent hole cover every 3-6 months, since you probably dry clothes very often. wikiHow's. The guard fits most 3 in. The openings are also convenient ways for small birds and animals to get into your house. WCS has a variety of vent covers to suit any need. Otherwise, the remaining flaps won’t be able to open when you’re using your dryer. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The caulk will create a waterproof seal around the cover to keep out rainwater and other moisture that could get trapped inside and cause problems down the line. Because indoor mice can be destructive, not to mention unhygienic, you probably don't want them nesting inside. A few simple supplies are all you need to keep your home safe and your vent functioning properly. Find dryer vent caps at Lowe's today. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Always wear work gloves, a dust mask, and protective eyewear when you’re patching an old dryer hole. If you choose to install a dryer vent guard or a dryer vent closure system, here's what you'll need: Regardless of which system you pick, you will need to take measurements to ensure that your vent guard or cap fits the vent opening correctly. Alder says the guard plus installation costs less than $50. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Temp-Vent Series 6 Automatic Foundation Vent. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Chimneys, light fixtures and even dryer vents can become their temporary home when they're searching for a safe place to raise their young. Other measures include changing your dryer vent from the flap type to a grate type. Dryer Vent Termination Needs a Cover: Keep out Drafts, Rodents, Birds, Mice. Fiberglass wall patches work well for holes up to about 1 in (2.5 cm), so that would be the easiest way to cover up a small dryer vent hole. Hold them over the vent opening and secure them tightly with screws. Freeman says he'll install a pest guard for $20. Dryer vent termination hoods should have a self-closing flapper or door to prevent back-drafting of cold air into the building. You can either paint over the inside patch or leave it as is if it’s just in an unfinished garage, basement, or somewhere else where you aren’t too worried about the appearance. We welcome your comments and This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. The former are available in all sizes, and work well to keep out birds and other insects and small animals. Or if you wait a little while you may see the bird go in your vent, they simply pick up the vent flap and walk through. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. Learn more... An uncovered dryer vent hole is a potential way for small critters and pests to get inside the vent system, which can turn into a real hassle. suggestions. Check periodically and remove lint or debris as needed to maintain maximum benefits. All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published. A bird's nest in your dryer vent is dangerous for a variety of reasons. Birds are attracted to the warmth of the vents, which is why they are commonly found in dryer vents and kitchen exhaust vents. Looking at the siding below the vent will also give signs of bird infestation. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. You can use hardware cloth to cover up other gaps where critters might get in, like attic and crawlspace vents or holes for plumbing, cable, gas, and electrical lines. Liquid, visual and sound bird deterrents are also available, but these are not as suitable for dryer vents as a simple vent guard. Dryer Vent Covers: 3 Reasons You Need Th... Dryer Vent Covers: 3 Reasons You Need Them, Dryer vent guard or dryer vent closure system, Ladder and safety equipment, depending on the height of the vent. Quickview. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved.
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