In every house, there are plenty of different things that could go wrong – but, with just a little time spent double-checking them, they can continue to go smoothly every day. Take, for example, the simple exhaust vent of your home’s clothes dryer. When installed properly, it can spend decades working without anyone giving it a second thought. When installed improperly, though, it can cause significant water damage and may even become a fire hazard. How so?

The duct that comes from your dryer’s exhaust vent is purposely flexible. However, it functions the best when it’s positioned perfectly horizontally, jettisoning air outside your house. If the duct has too many sharp bends, lint and other debris can build up, becoming a fire hazard. If the duct is venting air inside your home, there could be gallons of water being trapped in your walls and ceilings, which, over time, could lead to mold or other moisture problems.