Gas Vs. Electric Dryer

Posted on June 12th, 2020

If you’re shopping for a new dryer, one of your first considerations is whether you want a gas or electric unit. Of course, it’s best to check your hookups first to see if your laundry room can accommodate a gas or electric before comparing models. Most existing laundry rooms are already equipped with a 240-volt outlet to support an electric dryer. With that said, if you do have a gas hookup available in your existing laundry room or are considering adding it to your new construction, you will want to consider which power source will be best for your drying needs.

What is the actual difference between gas and electric dryers? It may surprise you to know that both units actually use electricity. The main difference between the two power sources is how they heat the air to dry your laundry. Electric dryers use heating coils powered by electricity to heat the air while gas uses propane or natural gas.

There are different pros and cons to each method. Electric dryers cost a bit more to operate because they use solely electricity, but their initial cost is usually less compared to gas models and are much easier to install. The main advantage of gas dryers is lower operating costs since it uses less electricity and gas typically costs less than electricity. However, it is not as easy to install as electric dryers and the unit itself typically costs more than it’s electric counterpart.

So is it worth it to convert to gas? If you don’t already have a hookup, it’s unlikely the cost to install a gas hookup will be worth the advantages you would receive from a gas dryer. However, if you do have a hookup to natural gas, the lower utility bill will actually save you enough money to justify the higher initial cost and then some (depending on how long you plan to stay in the home).

Whether you choose a gas or electric dryer, we have everything you need right here.