Gas vs. electric dryers: what do I need?
The three questions you need to ask
When it comes to your dryer, all that really matters is that your fuzzy socks come out warm and your dress shirts come out less wrinkled (using the Wrinkle Shield™ option, of course). But have you ever considered what powers your dryer?
Surprisingly, when shopping for a new dryer, that’s exactly what your first consideration should be. Gas or electric: what’s right for you? Ask these three questions to help you find the dryer to bring the (right) heat — for every sock and dress shirt.
1. What’s the difference between gas and electric dryers?
Gas Dryers: Electricity powers the drum, fan, lights and controls, but natural gas or propane generates heat.
Electric Dryers: Electricity powers the drum, fan, lights and controls and generates heat.
2. How do I know what I need?
Simply check the hookups in your laundry room. If you have a 110/115-volt electrical outlet (this is what every standard outlet looks like in your home) and a capped-off gas line nearby, you’re set up for a gas dryer. If you have a 240-volt electrical outlet, which is larger than a standard outlet and contains three or four holes, then you’re set up for electric.
3. Should I convert my hookups?
Heat up laundry day with Whirlpool
Now that you’ve made this critical initial decision, everything else will come easily. Gas and electric dryers offer comparable performance, innovation and convenience — and a variety of sizes/capacities and styles.
So whether you’re sanitizing baby clothes, ensuring his lucky shirt’s fresh and ready for the big test tomorrow or washing and drying her princess comforter because it’s covered in treats from last night’s sleepover, we’ll help you care better.
Check out our top picks below or shop all gas dryers and all electric dryers.
More laundry tips and tricks
The long and short of it: laundry pair measuring guide
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Washers: top load vs. front load
Loading from the top or the front? Agitator or impeller wash action? Trim or sleek style? We’ll help you make the tough decisions.
What does tumble dry mean?
To tumble dry or not to tumble dry: that is the question. Wait, what does tumble dry even mean? Find out here.
Appliance IQ
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