Gas vs. Electric Dryers - What's The Difference?
You have probably noticed that there are two types of dryers: electric and gas. An electric dryer (which has a lifespan of about 12-14 years) generates heat through an inner coil, which is then circulated by a fan as the clothes tumble in a rotating drum. A gas-powered unit (life expectancy of about10-13 years), on the other hand, works much like its counterpart, except it uses natural or propane to produce heat instead of electricity for drying your laundry.
An electric dryer requires a 240V outlet to produce heat and tumble the clothes. A gas dryer requires both a gas supply line and an electric outlet. The lower, 120V outlet is only used to run the fan-the heat comes from the burner system to tumble our clothes.
Gas vs. Electric Dryers - What Is The Per Load Operating Cost Difference?
Out of all the electricity sources, natural gas is by far one of the cheapest. It costs less than half as much to dry a load in a gas-powered clothes dryer versus an electric one in many areas.
For an environmentally conscious individual like yourself, the decision to invest in a gas dryer might not be difficult. A typical load of laundry will cost around 20-30 cents for your standard gas-powered unit, while it can set you back 40-50 cents per wash with an electric one. While this initial investment might seem steep at first glance, over time, those operating savings – which is what really counts here – make up that difference and then some!
You can make the switch from electric to gas clothes dryer for the savings on your utility bill. This may not be for everyone due to the cost of installation. It is worth considering those who meet all 3 criteria: current access to natural gas in the home, washing 5 or more loads per week and planning on staying in their home for at least another five years.
Gas vs. Electric Dryers - What Are The Maintenance Cost Differences?
A DIYer can often troubleshoot operating problems with an electric dryer, such as replacing worn belts or faulty switches. But repairs to gas dryers usually require the services of a qualified technician because they are highly complex and potentially dangerous machines.
The dryer is one of the most important appliances in a household, and it can be frustrating when you have to replace them. The cost varies depending on what type of part needs replacing, but if your warranty has expired or other problems with the appliance, expect costs for repairs to add up quickly! You can expect to pay between $100 and $150 per hour, with a one-hour minimum.
Contacting manufacturers about service calls will often be free during their designated warranties so that they can fix whatever problem may arise while still providing quality customer care.
This makes gas units – when they break – usually a more expensive option to repair.
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