A guy at my hardware store said that it’s better to use rigid metal for my dryer exhaust hose instead of flexible metal or plastic. He said I’ll use less energy because the dryer won’t have to work as hard. Is this true?

Your guy is right. Using a rigid, smooth wall metal hose/duct will make it easier for moist air to be pushed out of the dryer on its way outside. Flexible ducts have ribs that add resistance to the air flow, so the dryer has to work harder to remove moist air. That can increase your drying time and, so, increase your energy costs. The material choice (metal instead of plastic) is an important one with regard to fire safety.

Seeing as you’re interested in lowering your drying costs, here are some other energy-saving tips: Clear the lint screen after each load. Clean out the dryer hose of built-up lint as often as the dryer manufacturer recommends. When it’s time to buy a clothes washer, look for an ENERGY STAR^® labeled model. These washers use less energy and less water. They also remove more moisture, so you won’t need to run your dryer as long. And don’t forget that the most energy-efficient dryer is an outdoor clothes line.

Li Ling for The Home Team