When you're in the market for a new dryer, whether you're replacing an old model or moving into a new home with washer and dryer hookups, it's important to look for the right dryer for your needs. While great features, efficiency, and affordability are often must-haves, it's also essential to choose a new dryer that is equipped with the right fuel type that your laundry room is set up for. Read on to learn the benefits of both gas dryers and electric dryers, and which type might be the best for you.
The Benefits of Gas Dryers
While gas dryers still rely on some electricity to power the controls of the appliance, they use gas as the main fuel source to produce the heat that dries your laundry. As a result, gas dryers tend to heat up more quickly and reach higher temperatures during drying cycles, when compared to their electric counterparts. This means that each load of laundry can typically be dried in a fraction of the time, potentially saving you money over time in energy costs.
Gas dryers tend to shine in their energy efficiency and overall time-saving features. If your home has a gas hookup in the laundry room, or you're in the process of renovating and decide to add one, a gas dryer will make an excellent addition to your day-to-day routine that you can reap the benefits from over time.
The Benefits of Electric Dryers
Electric dryers are more common than their gas counterparts, with most homes already equipped with the hook-ups to install electric models. These dryers typically have a more budget-friendly up-front cost, since the components are less expensive than gas heating elements. Electric dryers typically last longer and are easier to maintain than gas dryers. If any repairs are ever needed, it is usually much safer to work on an electric model, since there is no gas line to worry about. The main draws of an electric dryer are the overall longevity, ease-of-use, low maintenance, and lower up-front cost.
Which Is Better - Gas or Electric Dryers?
Both gas dryers and electric dryers have their own unique benefits — so how do you know which type is the right choice for you? For most people, the simplest choice is typically to go with the fuel type that your laundry room is already set up for. Most homes are equipped with electric hook-ups only, making electric dryers the more common choice.
However, if you are in the process of building or renovating your home, you are in the position to choose which type of hook-ups you want to install in your laundry room. Choosing electric hook-ups will set you up to benefit from a longer-lasting, easy to maintain appliance with a lower up-front cost. Electric models are also easier and safer to install, while gas dryers should always be hooked up by a professional to ensure proper installation and avoid potential gas leaks. On the other hand, while it can be costly to install a gas line, this may be a good option if your family will live in the home for a long period of time, as you will be able to benefit from lower energy costs and time saved on each load of laundry in the long run.
Related Questions
How do I know if I need a gas or electric dryer?
If you are replacing an old dryer, you will need to purchase a new model that matches the fuel type that your hookups are set up for in order to avoid costly workarounds. The easiest way to check which type you need is to look up the model number of your old dryer to determine whether you have been using gas or electric. If you are moving into a new home with washer and dryer hookups already installed, check for a high-voltage outlet in the laundry room, which will indicate the need for an electric dryer. Or, if your laundry room is set up for gas, you should see a gas line with a shut-off valve.
Which lasts longer, a gas or electric dryer?
Electric dryers typically last longer than gas dryers. On average, a gas dryer should last approximately 13 years, while an electric dryer should last approximately 14 years. To keep each type running smoothly, it's important to clean the lint trap and vent routinely.
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