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gas vs electric dryer

Gas vs Electric Dryer – Which Is Better?

04.12.2023

When choosing between a gas and an electric dryer, you may wonder which is better for your home. Many people ask this question and make their choice based on cost, utility bills, and even the safety of the appliance. In this article, Jacob Dillard, an engineer at Appliance Repair Expert, will go over the pros and cons of choosing a gas or electric dryer so you can make an informed decision when purchasing a new unit. So, if you’re looking for more information on which type will ultimately benefit you, look no further – it’s all covered here!

Cost Of Appliance Operation

Cost is one of the factors to consider in the decision-making process. While both types of dryers are relatively affordable, there are significant differences between them when it comes to their overall cost. Let’s take a look at how each type of dryer stacks up in terms of a cost comparison.

Electric Dryer Repairs

  • Heating element replacement – $120-$300
  • Thermal fuse replacement – $60-$150
  • Timer replacement – $100-$180
  • Drum rollers replacement – $140-$220
  • Broken belts – $70-$110
  • Electrical issues – $100-$250

Gas Dryer Repairs

  • Igniter replacement – $150-$270
  • Gas valve solenoid replacement – $150-$270
  • Thermocouple replacement – $120-$250
  • Drum rollers replacement – $140-$220
  • Burner or flame sensor troubles – $180-$350
  • Exhaust system blockages – $100-$200

To begin with, electric dryers generally have a lower initial cost than gas models. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to spend too much on a new appliance right away. Electric dryers usually have cheaper replacement parts than gas dryers; however, their running costs can be higher as they are more expensive to run due to increased electricity consumption over time.

Performance & Efficiency

Another major difference between gas and electric dryers is performance and efficiency. Electric dryers typically take longer to do the job since their heating elements don’t get as hot as those in a gas-powered model.

Gas & Electric Dryer Efficiency Graphic

Gas dryers are generally more efficient in terms of drying time due to their higher temperatures, saving time and money on each load of laundry. In addition, many newer models are equipped with advanced features such as humidity sensors and steaming functions that improve efficiency by automatically adjusting the cycle time based on the dry laundry’s moisture level.

Installation Process

Installing a gas and electric dryer may appear to be fairly similar processes, but in reality, they are quite different.

Gas Dryer Installation Kit

The first difference is the sources of power. Gas dryers require an external source of natural gas, while electric models run on electricity from your home’s electrical system. Installation for a gas model will require additional steps, such as connecting the unit to your home’s gas line and testing it for leaks before use.

Electric models, on the other hand, simply need to be plugged into an appropriate outlet – which can sometimes be done by homeowners but should always be done by certified technicians for safety reasons.

Outlet for electric dryer
Setting an outlet for an electric dryer

Safety & Maintenance

Finally, safety and maintenance considerations should be considered when deciding between an electric and gas dryer. Gas models require venting outside in order to work safely and efficiently; if this isn’t done properly, it can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide being released into your home environment.

On the other hand, electric models don’t require any additional ventilation beyond what’s already in your home — but they do need frequent maintenance checks to ensure proper operation. With either type of model, it’s important to read all instructions carefully before using them for the first time in order to guarantee safe operation and clean a dryer vent regularly.

Cautions: The dryer extracts an average of 1-2 gallons of water from each load of laundry. This water is converted into water vapour, discharged through the exhaust pipe. If the vapours from the hood are drawn into the room, they dramatically increase the humidity level in the house. This can lead to condensation on the insulation, walls, wooden beams and other parts of the house.

Ultimately, both types of dryers have advantages and disadvantages depending on your particular needs — so it’s important to weigh those carefully before making a purchase decision. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option to save on energy bills over time while still getting the job done quickly and efficiently, then a gas-powered model may be your best bet.

However, if safety or space constraints are an issue, an electric model may be a better choice due to lower installation costs and easier maintenance requirements in the future. Whichever option you decide on, just make sure you research the model thoroughly before you buy!

Conclusions

Electric Dryers

Pros:

  • More energy efficient
  • Lower operating costs
  • Safer – no gas line needed

Cons:

  • Longer drying times
  • Higher upfront costs
  • Require special electrical hookup

Gas Dryers

Pros:

  • Faster drying times
  • Lower upfront costs
  • Higher heat output

Cons:

  • Less energy efficient
  • Higher operating costs
  • Require gas line hookup
  • Potential gas leak hazard

Here, we have considered the pros and cons of choosing a gas or electric dryer. The final choice of the manufacturer’s brand and appliance model is up to you. But if you are still thinking about which appliance to buy and need help, Appliance Repair Expert is ready to help you with the choice, as well as perform dryer repair, installation and timely maintenance.

Author: Jacob Dillard
My name is Jacob Dillard, and I am the author of articles at Appliance Repair Expert. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by technology and spent much time reading different books and trying to repair my first CD player. Then, I graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in Applied Science and Engineering. In a year, I got my first job as a technician at an appliance repair company. After years of practice and working with professionals, I decided it was time to share my knowledge and experience here at Appliance Repair Expert. I want to help you understand everything related to appliance repair, maintenance and installation in the simplest way possible. It will be fun, believe me!

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