Hey there! Great questions, and you're absolutely smart to be thinking about your dryer vent setup, especially with a new appliance. It's easy to just hook things up and forget about them, but getting it right from the start can save you alot of headaches – and potential hazards – down the line. That tight space behind the dryer is a common challenge, beleive me. You're definitely not overlooking anything obvious, those are very valid concerns.
Having that flexible aluminum hose snaking along the floor and up the wall isn't ideal, unfortunately. While it might seem okay if it's not visibly kinked, those curves and low spots create more resistance to airflow. This means your dryer has to work harder, which can lead to longer drying times and increased energy use. More importantly, those low, horizontal runs are prime spots for lint to settle and accumulate. You mentioned dust collecting, and lint is even worse becasue it's highly flammable.
That accumulated lint, especially in a warm, moist enviornment right near a heat source like your dryer, poses a significant fire risk. It's one of the leading causes of appliance fires, so your worry is totally justified. The proximity of your electrical cord is another thing to consider. While the cord itself should be insulated, you want to minimize any potential contact or heat transfer, and definitely keep lint away from electrical connections as a general rule.
So, what can you do? The goal is to make the vent run as **short and straight** as possible. If you can, replace that flexible aluminum with rigid metal ducting or, at the very least, semi-rigid aluminum. These materials have smoother interiors and are much less prone to kinks and lint buildup. For relly tight spaces, there are specialized periscope-style vents or recessed dryer boxes that allow the dryer to sit much closer to the wall without crushing the ductwork. These can make a huge difference in creating a more efficient and safer setup.
If replacing the ducting isn't immediately feasible, try your best to elevate the existing flexible hose off the floor. Even a couple of inches can help prevent those low spots where lint loves to gather. Use straps or clamps to hold it up, ensuring a gentle, upward slope if possible, rather than horizontal runs. And regardless of your setup, make sure to clean your dryer vent regularly – at least once a year, or more often if you notice clothes taking longer to dry. Keeping an eye on that lint buildup is key to safe operation.