Buying appliances for your home often requires a lot of research to find out which option is right for you. Smaller Items such as toasters and kettles may not take as much thought, but bigger items, like your laundry dryers do.With so many makes and models out there, it may seem like you’re faced with an overwhelming number of choices.
Before you dive into a sea of endless options, it is important to first figure out whether you want a gas or electric dryer. This blog post will distinguish between the two and hopefully help you get a step closer to figuring out which dryer to go for.
Difference Between Gas and Electric Dryer
Gas dryers dry clothes by using an electric fan to blow hot air over the clothes and out through the vent. They are powered by natural or propane gas. Electric dryers connect to your home’s main electricity line. A blower is used to push hot air throughout the drum then out through a vent to dry your clothes. In this case, the air is heated by a heating element.
Besides how they function, the difference between gas and electric dryers can also be measured by cost, performance, and energy efficiency. Gas dryers are more expensive upfront and come with additional installation fees.
However, in the long run, they are less expensive to run when you factor in the gas versus electricity prices, depending on your area. The next section will address performance and efficiency.
Difference With Performance and Efficiency
When it comes to performance in the gas vs electric dryer discussion, gas dryers take the crown. Because they’re able to heat up quickly and get to higher temperatures, they’ll dry your clothing in a shorter amount of time, meaning you’ll consume less energy per load.
Clothes coming out of a gas dryer also have fewer wrinkles and less static cling than electric dryers. Gas dryers also typically last longer than electric ones.
However, it is important to note that electric dryers are quieter, take up less space, and are lower maintenance than gas ones.
Process to Install Gas vs. Electric Dryer
Installing a gas dryer takes longer and is more expensive than an electric dryer. It requires the installation of or connection to the home’s gas line. Additional outside venting is also needed. On top of that, testing for leaks is a must. All of this means that you need a certified technician to install a gas dryer for you.
On the other hand, installing an electric dryer is pretty straightforward. It just involves plugging it into an appropriate outlet.
If you choose a vented electric dryer, venting would also be necessary. Ventless dryers are certainly an option to avoid this.
Let’s Talk Safety and Maintenance
For both dryers, following the instruction manual is key to safety and optimal performance. Regular maintenance is also necessary for both types, but this is especially true for gas dryers.
For electric dryers, maintenance is much more simple since it just involves examining the dryer itself, which is easy to unplug and do. Gas dryers need a few more steps in the maintenance process since the outside venting and gas line connection are involved.
Extra steps have to be taken to ensure safety when it comes to gas dryers. Carbon monoxide is a concern that shouldn’t be overlooked. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home in case the venting malfunctions and starts to let the carbon monoxide accumulate inside your home. Still seeking answers? Connect with our experts for guidance.
Dryer Maintenance Tips
There are many things you can do to get the most out of your dryer for as long as possible. Essentially, keeping your dryer in its best condition means maximizing airflow.
The first step in doing so is opting for rigid metal ducts when it comes to vent tubing, which better prevents the buildup of lint. Regardless of your vent tubing choice, it is vital that you get these tubes cleaned annually by a professional.
The final maintenance tips have to do with the lint filter. Clean the filter after every load. Twice or thrice a year, use a vacuum cleaner or brush to clean out the lint filter compartment.
Let’s Install Your New Dryer
Is a gas or electric dryer better? That depends on your budget, space, energy goals, and commitment to maintenance. Whatever your needs are, we’ve got you covered. We have certified professionals who can install, check, and repair both electric and gas dryers using top-quality parts. Contact us to get a quote for your new dryer today!