When it comes time to buy new laundry appliances, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with a gas vs electric clothes dryer. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so how do you know which is better for your home? Read on for a breakdown of the electric and gas dryer pros and cons, as well as some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
Gas Vs Electric Clothes Dryer
Often you will choose this based on which type of fuel your home already uses for heating. If you have a gas furnace then you likely have gas dryer hookups, instead of the 240-volt power outlet you need for electric dryers. If you have the luxury of both hookups in your home, then read on to decide on a gas vs electric clothes dryer.
What Makes Them Different
The main difference between a gas dryer and an electric dryer is the way they generate heat. A gas dryer uses natural gas which ignites with burners to create heat, while an electric dryer uses electricity and an electric element to create heat.
Cost:
The upfront cost of a gas clothes dryer is going to be more expensive than an electric one. However, the long-term costs are cheaper with a gas dryer since natural gas is typically less expensive than electricity. For repairs, gas dryers usually cost more as well since there are more components that can break down.
Performance:
In terms of performance, both gas and electric clothes dryers do a great job of drying your clothes quickly and thoroughly. However, gas dryers tend to get hotter than electric ones, so they may be better for people who need to dry their clothes quickly or have items that need to be dried on a high heat setting.
Efficiency:
When it comes to gas dryers vs electric dryers energy efficiency, gas dryers are typically more efficient than electric ones. This is because they don’t have to convert the energy from one form to another, as electric dryers do. Gas dryers also tend to heat up faster than electric ones, so you can save time and energy by using a gas dryer. For smaller families with smaller loads, this difference won’t be as noticeable.
Selection:
When it comes to selection, you’ll find more electric dryers on the market than gas ones. This is because electric dryers are less expensive to manufacture and there is a wider range of models available. However, if you need unique features and you’re set on getting a gas dryer, you can find a pretty good variety of different models from major brands like LG and Samsung.
So, which is better for you? Gas or electric? If you’re looking for an efficient and fast-drying clothes dryer, then a gas model is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t have gas hookups in your home, then an electric dryer is a great option. Whichever you choose, be sure to do your research to find the best model for your needs.
If you need any more tips on your appliances, check out our guides on dryers not spinning and dryers not turning on. And if you need an expert dryer repair team to help you out, get in touch with us at Appliance King of America.