Dryer heat exchangers are a common part of washing machines and dryers. These devices work by removing heat from the air. The heating and cooling process is accomplished by moving heated air through the air exchangers. The exchangers are made from a stack of twinwall polycarbonate sheets. In order to avoid any possible cross-contamination, the heating and cooling systems should be placed on opposite sides of the drying machine.A dryer heat exchanger uses a thermoformed plastic case and stainless steel roll formed plates. It is designed with a fan and can be equipped with a high-temperature sensor. If it detects a temperature beyond normal, it will shut off the power. This type of unit also eliminates the need for an exterior vent line, which is a major lint trap and a fire hazard. It can also create a heat recovery loop in your home.A clothes dryer heat exchanger works by transferring heat from the exhaust air back to the inside of the dryer. The exhaust air is cooled to below its dew point in the heat exchanger and condenses into water. A prototype dryer was built to determine how much water was discharged and where it went. Then, it was used to find a way to make the heat exchanger work without a problem. After cleaning the exchanger, the dryer should be cooled completely.The temperature and pressure of compressed air affects the capacity of the air to carry water. When the air is cooler, it carries less water. Therefore, the air in the dryer is saturated and higher than the ambient temperature. Any drop in temperature will result in unwanted moisture condensing. A water proofing solution may be needed to prevent the condensation of this unwanted moisture. The water in the dry air will be re-condensed into steam, which can cause the dryer to produce heat.After the dryer is cool, it is time to clean the heat exchanger. Remove the maintenance flap and place an absorbent cloth beneath it. Then, turn the maintenance flap towards the heat-exchanger. Pour water into the heat-exchanger. Then, use a brush to scrub the fluff off of the seals and the heat exchanger. Once the cleaning is complete, turn the dryer off and let it dry thoroughly.When the cycle is finished, the heat exchanger should flash and light up to indicate that it is ready for a clean. The heat exchanger is located on the utility room wall. The air coming out of the dryer comes in through slots on the back, and the moist air goes out through the vent. As the air passes through the heat exchanger, the hot and cooled air is recycled back into the dryer. The moisture that has been reduced will exit through the vent.
