Many of us don’t even know whether we have an electric dryer or a gas dryer until we need one. It is common to wonder if an electric dryer is better than a traditional gas dryer. Or if the initial cost of installing a gas line is worth it. If your dryer is not repairable, we will show you the best model for your household.
Difference between Electric Dryer vs. Gas Dryer
How do you choose between an electric and a gas dryer? This comprehensive list will help you make an informed choice.
Heating Source
We all know that dryers dry clothes by using heat. However, when considering the pros and cons of electric dryers versus gas, it’s important for us to understand how electric dryers and gas dryers differ in their ability to provide heat. Gas dryers use a gas burner for heat generation, while the motor of an electric dryer is powered by electricity.
Gas dryers must have a professionally installed 110-volt electric hookup.
Electric dryers use electricity to heat the coils. A larger 240-volt electric hookup is needed, as it uses more electricity per year than a gas dryer. It is not necessary to hire a professional for installation. All you need is to plug it in.
Drying Time
Consider the speed with which each dryer dries clothes when comparing gas dryers to electric dryers. The general rule is that gas dryers dry clothes faster and heat up faster than electric dryers. Because clothes are heated for shorter periods of time and dry faster, a gas dryer may be less efficient.
Efficiency
Gas and electric dryers generally perform almost equally in terms of energy efficiency. The latest gas dryers come out slightly ahead because they dry faster. No matter which dryer you choose, make sure it is Energy Star certified. This will help you save the most on your utility bills.
Family Size
It is important to take into account the size and needs of your family before you ask “Do I need an electric dryer?” A larger family means more laundry. Although a dryer with a higher price tag may be better, it can dry your laundry faster and will last for longer. If you have a small family and don’t make a lot, an electric dryer might work well for your laundry needs. Even though electric dryers may be more costly to run, your laundry loads will go a lot further than those of a larger household.
Overall cost
When making the decision between an electric or gas dryer, it is important to consider the overall cost. Although a dryer made from gas will be more costly to install and cost more initially, its faster drying time will help you save money and energy over the lifetime of your machine. While an electric dryer may be cheaper upfront, it can end up costing you more over time due to its longer drying time.
The best decision you can make about buying an electric dryer or gas dryer will come down to the combination of these factors.
