Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator

How the Gas vs Electric Dryer Cost Comparison Works

This calculator compares the operating cost of a gas dryer against an electric dryer based on your specific usage patterns and local utility rates. The calculation accounts for the fundamental difference in how each dryer type generates heat: gas dryers burn natural gas or propane to produce heat, while electric dryers use resistance heating elements.

The cost comparison relies on three primary inputs: your average weekly drying load, the efficiency of each dryer type, and your local energy rates. The calculator applies standard efficiency assumptions derived from Department of Energy test procedures to provide a realistic cost estimate.

What You Need to Know Before Using the Calculator

Understanding Dryer Efficiency Ratings

Gas dryers typically have a higher purchase price but lower operating costs in most regions. The efficiency difference stems from how each fuel source converts energy into heat. Electric dryers convert nearly 100% of their electrical energy into heat, but electricity costs more per unit of energy than natural gas in most areas. Gas dryers lose some heat through the exhaust vent, but the lower cost of natural gas often offsets this inefficiency.

Key Inputs for Accurate Results

• Weekly drying load: The number of standard dryer loads you run per week. A typical load is a full washer load of mixed fabrics.
• Electric rate: Your cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) as shown on your electric bill. The US average is approximately $0.14/kWh.
• Gas rate: Your cost per therm for natural gas. One therm equals 100,000 BTUs. The US average is approximately $1.20/therm.
• Dryer efficiency: The Combined Energy Factor (CEF) rating for each dryer type. Higher numbers indicate better efficiency.

How to Use the Calculator

1. Enter your average number of dryer loads per week in the "Weekly Loads" field.
2. Input your electric rate in dollars per kilowatt-hour. Check your utility bill for this figure.
3. Input your gas rate in dollars per therm. This is also found on your utility bill.
4. Adjust the efficiency values if you know the specific CEF ratings for the dryers you are comparing. The defaults represent typical modern dryers.
5. Click "Calculate" to see the annual cost comparison and the potential savings from choosing one type over the other.

Example Calculation

A household runs 5 loads of laundry per week. Their electric rate is $0.14/kWh, and their gas rate is $1.20/therm. Using default efficiency values (3.0 CEF for electric, 2.5 CEF for gas), the calculator estimates:

• Annual electric dryer cost: approximately $121
• Annual gas dryer cost: approximately $87
• Annual savings with gas: approximately $34

This example assumes average US utility rates. Your actual savings will vary based on your local rates and specific dryer models.

Understanding Your Results

The calculator provides three key figures: the annual operating cost for each dryer type and the potential annual savings. These estimates assume consistent usage throughout the year and do not account for seasonal variations in energy rates or changes in drying habits.

The results are most useful as a comparative tool rather than an exact prediction. Actual costs may differ due to factors such as dryer maintenance, vent cleanliness, load composition, and drying cycle selection.

Common Mistakes When Comparing Dryer Costs

• Ignoring installation costs: Gas dryers require a gas line connection and proper venting, which may add $100–$300 to installation costs. Electric dryers typically need a 240V outlet, which may require electrical work if not already present.
• Using incorrect utility rates: Your electric bill may show a tiered rate structure where the cost per kWh changes based on usage. Use your average effective rate for the most accurate comparison.
• Overlooking dryer lifespan: A gas dryer may have a slightly higher upfront cost but can last 13–14 years with proper maintenance. Factor the total cost of ownership, not just operating costs.
• Assuming all loads are identical: Heavy loads like towels and jeans require more energy than lightweight loads. The calculator uses an average load assumption.

Limitations of This Comparison

This calculator provides a cost comparison based on standard assumptions and average efficiency ratings. It does not account for:

• Regional variations in energy prices beyond the rates you input
• Time-of-use electricity pricing that may make off-peak drying cheaper
• Propane costs if you use propane instead of natural gas (propane is typically more expensive per therm)
• Heat pump dryers, which are a third type of electric dryer that uses significantly less energy than conventional electric dryers
• Venting differences that can affect dryer efficiency and drying time

For a complete cost comparison, consider the purchase price, installation costs, and expected lifespan of each dryer type alongside the operating cost estimate from this calculator.

Practical Use Cases

• New home construction: Decide whether to install a gas line for a dryer or stick with an electric connection based on long-term operating costs.
• Dryer replacement: Compare the ongoing cost of your current dryer type against the alternative before purchasing a new unit.
• Moving to a new home: Evaluate whether it makes financial sense to switch dryer types when your new home has different utility connections available.
• Budget planning: Estimate your annual laundry energy costs to include in your household budget or energy efficiency planning.