For most homeowners, gas dryers are not only a convenience but an efficient appliance to have around.
Unlike electric dryers, gas dryers are more energy efficient and dry laundry loads more quickly. However, if you need to move your dryer, it comes with a bit more hassle than you would expect.
The first thing you need to remember before disconnecting your dryer is that you are dealing with a gas appliance.
Any gas leaks can be a massive problem for your family and property. So, you need to handle your dryer with care when disconnecting it and moving it to a new location.
Whether you want to upgrade to a new one or remodel your laundry room, dryer removals are inevitable.
This post will look at the step-by-step procedure for disconnecting your gas dryer safely.
If you are thinking of disconnecting your gas dryer, you need to turn off all electrical and gas appliances to reduce the chance of igniting the gas.
Remember to ventilate the house, wear protective clothing and have a fire extinguisher around.
The next thing you need to do is to unplug the dryer and turn off the main gas supply before disconnecting the gas pipe.
Cover the gas line to prevent accidental leaks. Lastly, check to see any leaks after disconnecting the unit.
Remember to take all safety precautions when dealing with gas appliances. If you notice any gas leaks, get out of the house and call the fire department as soon as possible.
What You Need To Disconnect Your Gas Dryer
If you are planning to disconnect your dryer, it is vital to have the right tools for the job. Here is what you will need:
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Socket set
- An adjustable wrench
- The dryer’s user manual
Natural gas is a fire hazard and can cause serious health issues like vomiting, nausea, and headaches. If you suspect a gas leak, get out of the house immediately and call emergency services.
12 Steps To Follow When Disconnecting Your Gas Dryer
Now that you have the right tools for your project let us look at the safe ways to disconnect your gas dryer while avoiding accidents.
If you have any doubts, always consult the user manual, call customer service, or ask a gas plumber for help.
1. Take Out Any Clothes in the Dryer
It seems obvious, but you must remove any clothes from your dryer. Clothes can get stuck in the drum when the dryer moves around.
Taking out clothes or any objects inside the drum will prevent damage to the dryer.
2. Open the Windows and Doors
No matter how careful you might be, there is always a potential for gas leaks when dealing with a gas dryer.
Before disconnecting the appliance, you need to open as many doors and windows around the house as possible.
3. Turn Off Electrical and Gas Appliances
In addition, you also need to turn off any electrical appliances in the house before starting to take out your gas dryer.
Because natural gas is highly flammable, any sparks, even from an electrical switch, can cause a disaster.
Likewise, you must put out any flames or fires around the house. Remember to turn off your gas water heater too.
4. Wear Protective Clothes
You must always wear protective clothing when working on projects around the house. Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, a face mask, or a face shield.
5. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Closeby
In addition, it is always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher near your working area.
If you notice any flames or sparks when disconnecting the gas dryer, you need to put it out as fast as possible before it does any damage.
6. Unplug the Dryer From the Outlet
The next step is to unplug the dryer. As previously stated, electrical sparks can be hazardous when dealing with natural gas or propane.
In addition, unplugging the dryer from the socket also prevents any risk of electrocution.
7. Shut Off the Gas Valve
All steps in this process are equally important, but you must shut off the valve that supplies gas to the drier.
You should keep the valve turned off throughout the disconnection process until the project is done.
You can also shut off the main gas supply to the house for extra precaution.
8. Move the Dryer Away From the Wall
The next thing you need to do is safely move the dryer ways from the wall. The wall can prevent access to the back of the appliance where the gas line is connected.
Do not tag or pull the dryer too much, as it can cause injury to you, or the gas pipe might break.
Ask for help if the unit is too heavy to move around. You can also wiggle it gently as you pull or push it away from the wall.
9. Disconnect the Gas Line
Once the dryer is far from the wall, you will see the central gas line connecting to the back of the dryer.
The wrench will be handy when disconnecting the gas line from the dryer. However, if the hose is secured using screws, you will need the Phillips head screwdriver to loosen them up.
You should not get too worried if you smell a little gas after disconnecting the line. This is the gas remaining in the pipe spilling out.
However, if the smell continues, it might be a gas leak problem. You need to evacuate the house immediately and call the fire department.
Do not yank off the gas pipe, as this might break the line or the seals that connect it to the dryer.
10. Cover the Gas Line With Tape
Once you have disconnected the gas line, it is essential to cover and secure the pipe. Wrapping the pipe prevents the tube from leaking gas if the valve is not closed correctly.
Teflon tape works great to cover up any gaps in the pipe opening. Ensure to thoroughly cover up the pipe’s connection point for extra protection.
Likewise, securing a flexible gas pipe to the wall can add extra protection. If the tube moves around, there is a higher possibility of wearing out, breaking, or cutting.
If the pipe breaks, gas can leak into the house when the valves are turned on.
11. Disconnect the Vent or Duct
If your dryer also has a vent or duct, you should remember to disconnect it.
The vent is secured by cramps or screws, which can be loosened using a screwdriver and wrench. Once you loosen the vent, gently wiggle it rather than pulling it out of the dryer, as it can get damaged.
The vent houses a lot of lint blown from the dryer, so clean it out if you want to reinstall it back to the unit.
Ensure to keep anything flammable from the vent, as there is a significant fire risk.
12. Check for Leaks
The final step is checking for any leaks in the pipe work. When working with gas appliances, extra caution is always an added advantage.
Listen for any hissing noise in the room, as it can indicate gas trying to escape from the pipes.
You should also let the air in the room settle and make sure you do not smell any fume smells.
If you hear any hissing or the smell of rotten eggs, there is probably a leak in the gas line. You should get out of the house and call the emergency team to help you.
Takeaway
If you are thinking of disconnecting your gas dryer, caution should always be on your mind. Gas leaks are a potential fire hazard that should never be taken lightly.
Before taking out your dryer, you must ensure that all electrical and gas appliances in the house are turned off. It would be best if you also unplugged the drier for extra precaution.
In addition, you should turn off the gas supply line to prevent any accidental leaks that might occur. Before starting the project, wear protective clothing and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
If you suspect gas leaks in the house, you should evacuate everyone and call the emergency personnel to help assess the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Normal To Smell Gas Coming From Your Dryer?
If you smell gas from your dryer, it might indicate a gas leak in the unit or the pipes. You should call a professional to check it out immediately.
Should You Disconnect a Gas Dryer by Yourself?
Getting a professional gas plumber to work on any gas appliance-related issues around the house is always recommended.
Gas leaks can be a huge fire and health hazard.
However, if you can do it yourself, it is always better to follow the proper safety procedures when disconnecting your unit.
