Vent flappers can be really annoying with the frequent noise on a windy day. The banging sound just won’t stop and you’ve finally had enough of it. It’s time to fix this loud mess.
How to fix vent flapper noise?
You can try three methods to get rid of the flapper noise. You can apply weatherproof foam tape to where the flapper meets the metal parts. Adding weight to the flapper is also effective. For a long-term solution, we suggest changing the damper with a spring-loaded backdraft damper.
That was the solution method in a nutshell, but that’s not all. We’ve explained the noise preventing methods in detail for you.
Are you curious? Then keep up with us till the end.
Why Vent Flappers Make Noise?
A vent has one main purpose and that is ventilation. Some houses have ductwork installed in the home. But adding a vent in the existing ductwork would boost the ventilation better.
House vents are usually installed in the kitchen, toilets, and storage. They come with or without an exhaust fan. But most vents have metal flappers attached to the outside area of the vent. When steam or air forms these flappers fly open and let the air out.
But when the air is windy vent flappers sometimes make an unpleasant noise. Because the flappers on the vent frequently clash with the metal frame.
It produces quite a loud banging noise. The sound could be so frequent that it’s unbearable not to fix it. The problem is similar to extractor vents rattling sound.
But the good news is, this problem can be dealt with some changes. You won’t need to remove the entire vent for it. In our next segment, we’ll be talking about the solution methods.
How To Get Rid Of Vent Flapper Noise?
Before we get onto our solution methods, it’s important that you use safety gear. These processes might need to be done from the attic. So, you must be careful throughout the process.
Method-1: Using Sound Absorbing Method
For this process you’re gonna need some waterproof tape. There are many waterproof tapes like Teflon and Delrin.
But for vent flappers, you’d need foamy tapes to reduce the sound. This is why weatherproof foam tape is the best choice.
You can choose from these weatherproof foam tapes for your vent flapper-
| Product 1 | |
| Product 2 |
Got the tapes? If yes, let’s get to work.
Apply the tapes on the end edge of the vent flappers. The tape should be in the position where it hits the metal parts.
This will work as a barricade to stop metal clashes, reducing any loud sound. This is the easiest and cheapest process to get rid of the flapper noise.
Method-2: Adding Weight To The Flappers
The goal is to add some weight to the vent flappers. This way the wind can’t frequently move them up and down easily. But it can’t be too heavy if we want the vent to work properly.
For this method, we’re gonna use some wheel weight. Make sure the wheel weight comes with strong adhesives that can resist the wind.
For starters, go with a ¼ oz wheel weight. See if the sound has gone down than before. Add a little weight at a time, if you think adding more weight would be better. Keep the weight minimal so that the flappers work properly.
Method-3: Damper Replacement
For vent flapper noise a long-term solution is to replace the damper. The vent damper is an automatic device that is connected to the airflow pipe. it shuts off the flow pipe when the burner stops running.
Rather than using normal vent dampers use a spring-loaded backdraft damper. It contains a rubber gasket inside. It generates an airtight seal when the flapper closes.
This seal prevents any unwanted air from entering the vent since it stays shut. It prevents the flapper noise plus it prevents any leak.
To install a spring-loaded backdraft damper you’re gonna need these tools-
- Roof sealer
- Utility knife
- Caulking gun
- New spring-loaded backdraft damper
Got all of them? If so, follow these steps to replace the vent damper.
Step-1: Remove The Old Vent Damper
Firstly, detach the screws from the vent tube with a screwdriver. You might have to do it from the roof. Then try to lift the shingles of the vent.
Use a utility knife to cut off any sealant on it. Remove the screws on the vent. Now it’s detached from the wall.
Step-2: Replace The Damper
Carefully take out the old damper and position the new damper into its place. Make sure the spring-loaded damper is in the right size with the vent.
Put the shingles to their position and screw them properly now. Use the caulking gun to seal the gaps around the dryer vent edges.
Step-3: Connect The Vent Tube
Go back to the roof and screw the vent tube back together. Check if it’s making loud noises like before. You may have to wait for a windy day to see the full result.
That’s it! Hopefully, you’ve found the right method for your vent flappers.
FAQs
Question: What if the vent makes noise even without airflow?
Answer: If it has an exhaust fan then maybe the noise is coming from the fan. For vents without an exhaust fan, the problem could be within the pipe inside.
Question: Are exhaust fans necessary for all types of vents?
Answer: It depends on the place. For example, the kitchen and toilet should have an exhaust fan. Normal vents may not be enough to remove moistures, steam, and odors.
Question: How big should a vent pipe be?
Answer: vent pipes should not be smaller than 32 mm or 11/14” in diameter. The length should be around 40 feet. But it can exceed 40 mm if necessary.
Signing Off
Hopefully, you’ve got the right method to fix your vent flapper noise. All three methods are effective depending on their appliance.
That’s all for today. Until next time stay happy stay safe!