Dryers have become an essential appliance almost in every home, with many offering numerous features and settings. But when choosing a new dryer, its heating source can be just as important a consideration as its bells and whistles. Does a gas or electric dryer have an advantage over the other? We’ll compare the two along with important criteria, like efficiency and cost, so you can make the best choice for your home.
Should You Purchase a Gas or Electric Dryer? Here’s How the Two Compare
When considering a gas or electric dryer, both have their advantages and disadvantages. We’ll narrow down the most important factors, as well as the pros and cons of each model, to best inform your decision.
Heating Source
If you’re choosing between a gas or electric dryer, it’s important to understand what the heat source is for each model. An electric dryer uses heating coils to generate heat, power the motor, and fuel all other functions. This level of electricity requires a large 240-volt outlet and power cord but is simply plugged in for easy installation. Some electric dryers don’t even require venting to the outside.
A gas dryer also uses electricity to power the motor and other dryer functions. However, its heat source comes from an enclosed gas burner. While a gas dryer requires a standard, 110-volt electrical outlet and cord, it also needs a gas hookup and vent to the outside. This means that professional installation and performing an annual dryer vent cleaning are necessary.
Drying Efficiency
When comparing electric dryers vs gas dryers’ efficiency, the edge goes to gas dryers. These dryers can reach higher heating temperatures, drying clothes faster, and saving time and energy. Less drying time also means that gas dryers are gentler on clothing, leading to less wear and tear.
Energy Consumption
Generally speaking, gas dryers are also more energy-efficient. Though they use both gas and electricity to operate, their faster drying ability consumes less energy than an electric dryer. While the actual difference can vary based on the utility rates in your area, gas dryers can be a more environmentally-friendly choice.
Household Size
Do I need a gas or electric dryer if I have a large family? If you’re drying 5-7 loads per week, your needs may be better served by a gas dryer. This frequent use maximizes the savings you’ll see in drying times and energy efficiency. However, if you have a smaller family or only do laundry once or twice a week, the disparity in savings is less. This makes an electric dryer just as viable a choice for your laundry practices.
Overall Cost
Last, but not least, cost is an important factor when choosing between a gas or electric dryer. While most gas dryers cost slightly more upfront, their lower utility costs can end up saving money over the life of the machine. Electric dryers use more energy, adding up to greater utility costs over time despite a lower purchase price.
Though these factors vary based on laundry frequency and local utility costs, gas dryers can result in greater savings in the end.
Understanding the pros and cons of gas and electric dryers can help inform the right choice for your family. The experts at Cody’s Appliance Repair can provide professional dryer service and advice for any model or brand!
