What is the role of make-up air in relation to clothes dryer exhaust systems?

Make-up air is essential in clothes dryer exhaust systems because it serves the specific function of replacing the air that is expelled from the dryer during its operation. When a clothes dryer operates, it expels warm, moisture-laden air to the outside. This exhaust process can create a negative pressure inside the dwelling, which may lead to a variety of issues, including difficulty in the dryer functioning efficiently or even backdrafting of combustion gases from other appliances. To mitigate these effects, make-up air is introduced into the space, ensuring that there is a consistent air supply to balance the airflow.

In the context of residential and commercial HVAC systems, ensuring adequate make-up air is important for maintaining system efficiency and safety, preventing conditions that could lead to increased energy consumption or even hazards due to improper combustion air supply. Therefore, the role of make-up air in this scenario is critical to the overall performance and safety of the dryer and the ventilation system as a whole.