Gas Vs Electric Dryer: What's The Real Difference? (& Which One Is Best For You)

When the time comes for a new clothes dryer, the first decision you have to make is between a gas or electric dryer. You may be wondering: Other than their power source, what's the difference? There are benefits and drawbacks to each type of dryer. For example, gas dryers can be more expensive to buy and install upfront, but electric dryers typically cost more to operate over time. Gas dryers dry clothes faster, which results in less wear on your clothing, but electric dryers are easier to install, especially if your home is not equipped with a gas line.

Before you buy a new dryer, consider whether you want gas or electric. To make the best choice for your home, think about your own personal preferences, your family's laundry needs, and whether your home already has a gas line installed. Learning the differences between each type of dryer can help you make an informed decision. 

Gas dryers generate heat through a gas burner, which can be fueled by either natural gas or propane. If natural gas is not available in your area, natural gas dryers can be converted to run on propane, though you'll likely need help from a professional. A gas dryer heats up faster than an electric dryer and dries laundry faster, which is gentler on your clothes over time. Although the appliances themselves are often more expensive than electric dryers, gas dryers can save money on your monthly utility bills in the long run.

The drawbacks of gas dryers include a higher upfront cost and more maintenance requirements. The main difference in the installation process is the need for a gas line. If you don't currently have one, you will need to have it installed. One of the biggest downsides to installing a gas line is the need to hire a professional to handle the job — this is not a DIY project due to the potential for serious injury or devastating property damage. You'll also need to hire a technician for maintenance and repairs, and those costs can add up.

Electric dryers use electricity to generate heat to dry clothing instead of gas burners. This type of dryer is less expensive and available in a wider variety of style options. An electric dryer is also easier to install because it only requires a 240-volt electrical outlet, no gas line required. To make things even easier, electric dryers typically require less maintenance compared to gas dryers.

The downsides of electric dryers include taking longer to heat up and a slower drying time. This type of dryer is less energy efficient than a gas model, so although electric dryers cost less to purchase, powering them can be more expensive. An electric dryer may be one reason your electric bill is through the roof. To mitigate this, look for an energy efficient model, ideally one with an Energy Star rating.

If you have a large family with a lot of laundry, want your clothes dried as quickly as possible, and have a gas line installed in your home, a gas dryer may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you want to save money on the upfront costs, don't have a gas line, or natural gas is not available in your area, an electric dryer could be right for your household.