Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator
Estimate annual operating costs, CO₂ emissions, and payback time when choosing between gas and electric clothes dryers.
ENERGY STAR electric dryers use ~2.7 kWh per load.
Typical gas dryers use ~0.22 therms per load.
Annual Operating Cost
Electric: $202.18
Gas: $109.82
Savings & Payback
Annual savings: $92.35
Payback: 2.17 years
CO₂ Impact
Emissions difference: -16.68 kg/year
A gas dryer saves approximately $92.35 per year compared to electric at these rates.
How to Use This Calculator
Gather usage data
Estimate loads per week and pick default energy use per load or use meter readings for your current dryer.
Enter local energy rates
Use the rate portion of your electric and natural gas bill. Include delivery charges if they vary with usage.
Compare purchase prices
Enter the cost of competing models to see the payback period based on annual savings.
Formula
Annual Cost = Loads × Energy per Load × Rate × 52 + Fixed Fees
Payback = (Gas Dryer Price − Electric Dryer Price) ÷ (Annual Savings)
Example: 8 loads/week × 2.7 kWh × $0.18 × 52 ≈ $202/year for electric. Gas: 8 × 0.22 therms × $1.20 × 52 ≈ $110/year.
If the gas dryer costs $200 more, payback ≈ $200 ÷ $92 ≈ 2.2 years.
About the Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator
Dryer choices affect long-term bills and emissions. Gas units usually cost more upfront but each load can be cheaper. This calculator shows the tipping point based on your actual laundry habits and local rates.
When to Use This Calculator
- Appliance shopping: Compare models before purchasing a new dryer.
- Energy retrofits: Evaluate switching fuel types during renovations.
- Budgeting: Understand long-term costs for rental properties or multi-family housing.
- Sustainability reporting: Quantify potential CO₂ reductions from equipment upgrades.
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Realistic defaults: Pre-filled energy use per load based on ENERGY STAR data.
- ✅ Flexible inputs: Adjust rates, loads, and appliance prices to reflect your situation.
- ✅ Carbon insight: See emissions differences between electric and gas dryers.
- ✅ Mobile friendly: Use in-store while comparing appliance models.
Common Applications
Homeowners: Determine if a gas dryer is worth the installation cost.
Landlords: Estimate utility costs charged back to tenants.
Energy advisors: Demonstrate savings from efficient laundry equipment.
Tips for Best Results
- Combine this calculator with washer efficiency to gauge full laundry costs.
- Clean lint traps and ducts regularly—restricted airflow increases energy use.
- Use lower heat settings and sensor drying to reduce runtime.
- Check local rebates for ENERGY STAR dryers and fuel-switching incentives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a gas line for gas dryers?
Yes. Gas dryers require a natural gas hookup and proper venting. Installation costs may reduce savings if a line isn’t already available.
Are heat pump dryers an option?
Heat pump dryers use electricity but far less energy (1.5 kWh/load). Adjust the electric kWh per load to compare heat pump models.
How accurate are the default energy values?
They’re based on ENERGY STAR averages. Actual consumption depends on load size, dryness level, and maintenance.
What if my rates vary by season?
Run the calculator for each season or use an annual average rate from your utility statements.