At a Glance
Gas vs Electric Dryers: What's the Difference?
Dryers are part and parcel of the laundry, and no house can function without this vital appliance. Whether it is a simple household or someone running a commercial laundry business, a good dryer is a must. But when there are so many models in the market, choosing one can be difficult.
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Shop Gas and Electric Dryers TodayNot only that but when you have different options when it comes to energy usage choosing a dryer becomes even more daunting. Because now you have to decide which one will be more energy efficient.
When purchasing a dryer, you will be presented with two options: Gas vs. electric dryer.
Now both dryers have very distinct differences as choosing a better one might be difficult for you. Considering your budget, you will have to consider all the options like energy efficiency, dryer cost, fuel usage, and what to choose.
That is why it is recommended to determine which will suit you more before purchasing a dryer. And to help our readers, we have devised this guide on gas vs. electric dryers to help you understand the difference between the both.
Gas Vs Electric Dryer: What Is The Difference?
Before we discuss which dryer is better, let's first clarify the difference between a gas and an electric dryer.
Gas Dryer For Clothes
As the name represents, gas dryers work with natural gas or propane gas for the function of the dryer. Aside from these two gasses, liquid gas can also be used to generate heat for the dryer's operation.
Although this is a gas dryer, despite its name, it will still need an electrical outlet to activate the dryer. That is because the drum machine will need the electrical current, but for the heating element, gas is used. But the great thing about these dryers is that they can take a good load at once and if you are a bigger household with many clothes to dry at once, this might be a great option for you.
Electric Dryer For Clothes
The electric dryer operates with the help of a 240-volt current, which is twice as powerful as the average house current. The current fuels the heating coils, which in turn activates the dryer. The current volt depends on the type of electric dryer you use. These dryers mostly use 110 volts of current if it is portable and more compact.
Moreover, you will find a lot of ventless dryers in the electrical range, so if you do not have a vent in your house or are looking for a ventless dryer, this might be an excellent option.
Aside from that, both differ in energy usage, installation, and cost per year, so you need to keep these factors in mind before purchasing any dryer.
Which One Is More Efficient: Gas Vs Electric Dryer?
According to some reputable energy programs, the dryers used in the house for laundry, use up the most energy of the house. These are usually the energy-hungry appliances of the home and possibly the reason for high utility bills.
When talking about the gas vs. the electric dryer, the gas dryer is more energy efficient. That is due to the simple fact that it heats up more rapidly and generates more heat as compared to the electric dryer. Moreover, it doesn't use a lot of currents and dries the clothes faster.
When talking about electric dryers are less energy efficient compared to gas dryers. That is because they take longer to generate heat, so they take more time to dry clothes. So if you are looking for more of a budget-friendly option, then the gas dryers should be your go-to choice.
Which One Is More Costly?
Gas Dryer: Well, the dryer cost mostly depends upon the cost of purchasing and later the repair cost. When it comes to gas dryers, buy wisely; a gas dryer will be at higher price than an electric dryer. But if you face any problem with the gas dryer in the future, the cost of fixing it is relatively equal to an electric dryer. Aside from that, the gas dryers need the installation of gas lines or hooks that will be an extra cost to you.
Maintenance is also quite costly as you have to get these serviced by a licensed practitioner, which will cost you separately.
Electric Dryer: Now, when it comes to the electric dryer, it may be a little bit costly, but when it comes to maintaining it. The maintenance cost is relatively less than the gas dryers, and if you keep them properly maintained, you will last much longer. Moreover, you do not need extra installation as these only need 240 volts outlets. If you have the outlet well and good otherwise, you will need to install It, and after that, you are ready to use the dryer.
Which Ones Is Easier To Install?
Now when it comes to gas vs electric dryers, the installation process of both is quite different, with the gas dryer requiring a bit extra installation.
For gas installation, you will need a gas valve and an electrical outlet for the dryer. Whereas when it comes to the electric dryer, you will need 240 volts outlets and nothing more. Now one thing that both the dryer will need is the vent system. Both dryers require a vent so the air can be vented out after use. Although there are a lot of ventless electric models present, it depends upon which one you buy.
One tip when buying a dryer is to check the type of dryer you already have. This will help you decide which one you should go for and whether you need any extra installation. Check whether your dryer only has the electrical line or is hooked to a gas line.
If you cannot identify it, then it is better to go ahead and hire a professional to help you identify the type of dryer you have.
Which One Is Safer? Gas Or Electric Dryer
Well, in terms of safety, if not correctly installed and maintained, both dryers can pose hazards of different types. But this danger can be countered effectively with the help of proper installation practice, maintenance, and usage of the dryers.
That's why it is said by the US Fire Administration the best practice is to install the dryer properly, both the electrical and gas ones, and ensure that all the other factors, like the wiring, are also proper.
Now talking about the possible hazards if not installed properly, the electric dryer poses the risk of electrocution or catching electric current.
The gas dryer, on the other hand, poses two possible hazards that are pretty dangerous. Gas dryers, firstly, if not connected properly, the gas can leak into your house and can cause poisoning or even threats of fire. Secondly, the dryers also produce a deadly gas called carbon monoxide that is dangerous for your health and, if inhaled for a long time, can cause serious problems.
That is why it is recommended to practice safe installation of the dryers to prevent any safety threats.
Which Dryer Last Longer? Gas Or Electric
There is no definite answer, but they both typically last simultaneously. The electric dryers lasts one year longer than the gas ones as it is said that gas dryers last about 13 years, whereas electric dryer lasts for about 14 years.
Aside from that, it also depends upon other longevity factors like maintenance. So if the dryer is maintained and in its original shape, it can last longer than expected.
Pros And Cons of Gas Dryer
Of course there are pros and cons to dryers. Following are some advantages and disadvantages of owning a gas dryer:
Pros Of Gas Dryer
- Have more capacity for laundry
- Is more energy efficient
- Uses normal electrical outlets
- Heat up immediately
- Dries the clothes at a faster rate
Cons Of Gas Dryer
- Needs a gas hook-up for proper installation
- The installation needs to be near a vent
- It is more on the expensive side
Pros And Cons of Electric Dryer
Following are some pros and cons n of owning an electric dryer for laundry:
Pros Of Electric Dryer
- Have a variety of models to choose from
- It is affordable
- It can be fixed easily in case of any problem
Cons Of Electric Dryer
- Does not have much capacity
- Use a lot of electrical energy
Conclusion
Dryers are essential parts of the household as it is the machine responsible for getting us clean clothes. But choosing a good dryer is also necessary, especially with so many models out in the market. This guide was to help you understand what type of energy source a dryer uses and which one you should go for. So If you have been stuck with the question of Gas vs Electric dryer, then we hope this guide cleared out your doubts.
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