Dryer connection

Question

We've had our dryer for two years, it replaced an old dryer that was arcing. Now the new dryer is doing the same thing and I'm wondering if it due to the way the connection is set up. It is an electric dryer but there is also a gas hookup pipe right next to the 220 outlet. The dryer vent ends up resting on the pipe and there is a scorched hole where it was touching the gas pipe.

Answer

You have a serious situation here. If that gas valve leaks and that plug arcs you could have an instant fire that is being fed by gas.

You also must be arcing from the metal vent to the gas valve. Usually your gas line is grounded so you must be getting some voltage on the flex line.

Your electrical hookup needs to be checked and the plug moved up off the floor (what if your washer leaks? It will go into that plug).

By moving the plug up and away from that gas valve that will help make it safer.

Also, you need to find out if your dryer is properly grounded. It may be that the neutral is carrying enough voltage to create that arc.

Then, the vent should be moved away from touching the gas valve.

I am not sure whether you should call an appliance tech or an electrician. You may need both depending on what each one would do.

Definietly get that outlet/plug up off the floor. Cap the gas line at the floor level. Have both the dryer and outlet/plug checked for correct wiring. Check to see if you have a good ground.

Replace the metal dryer vent with another metal dryer vent or put in an appropriate metal splice.