One of the most useful home appliances is a clothes dryer. It helps to remove moisture from washed clothes. The two main types of dryers available on the market today are gas and electric dryers. While most people just pick the one that matches their utility hookup, it’s always best to know which dryer is best.

Gas dryer description

A gas dryer produces heat using a gas burner. It requires a gas supply for this, and a 120V electric supply as well to help run the fun and tumble the clothes. Carbon monoxide is normally produced as the combustion of the gas takes place.

The harmful gas is sent into the outdoors through vents or using a suitable HVAC ventilation system. A licensed plumber must be hired to hook up a gas dryer. This is because gas connections must be fitted carefully to ensure no gas leaks from the dryer. 

A typical gas dryer will cost you about $100 more than an electric dryer. However, propane or natural gas costs less than electricity, making gas dryers cheaper to operate. 

Strong sides

1. Use less utility costs.

2. Reduce energy wastage and are better for the environment.

3. Reduce the risk of damaging your clothes. 

4. Do not need grounding like some electric dryers. 

5. Some use moisture sensors to determine how fast garments are drying.

Weak sides

1. More expensive to purchase. 

2. Higher installation costs. 

3. Potential fire hazard where there are ill-fitted gas line connections.

Electric dryer description

An electric dryer uses a coil to generate heat. A fan circulates the heat around the rotating drum as the clothes tumble. Electric dryers typically require about 240V of electric output to generate enough heat and to tumble garments. 

They are more common than gas dryers because most homes have electric power. They also boast of a longer life expectancy. In some communities, houses are fitted with both gas and electric lines, giving dwellers more room to choose. 

Strong sides

1. Easy and cheaper to install.

2. Available in different styles and models. 

3. Do not require a utility hookup to operate.

4. Easier and cheaper to repair. 

5. Can be installed almost anywhere.

Weak sides

1. Pose risk of fire or electrocution where there’s faulty wiring. 

2. Can cost more to operate where gas is cheaper than electricity.

Overview

Gas dryers are a better choice when compared to electric dryers because they cost less to run, are more efficient and cause less harm to the environment. However, not many homes have gas supply. Electric dryers are ideal where the only power connection is electricity. They also match the cost savings if the owner plans to stay at the home for more than 5 years.

FAQ

Are gas dryers more dangerous than electric?

Gas dryers posts a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire where connections are not done right. On the other hand, electric dryers pose a smaller risk of electrocution or fire where there’s faulty wiring or improper installation.

What lasts longer gas or electric dryer?

Gas dryers tend to have few parts and need less service in the long run. This adds about 5-10 years of longer service when compared to most electric dryers.

Can gas dryers cause carbon monoxide?

Clogged gas dryers can cause the heat from the dryer to ignite debris. This may cause the gas to emit dangerous carbon monoxide fumes.