Gas dryers usually cost more to buy but less to run — usually. Enter your laundry habits and energy prices, and see which one actually wins in your house, per year.
Gas vs Electric Dryer Cost Calculator
How this calculator works
A typical electric dryer uses about 3.3 kilowatt-hours of electricity per load, mostly for heat. A gas dryer burns roughly 0.22 therms of gas for the same heat and still uses a little electricity for the drum and fan. Multiply by your loads per week and your local rates, and the yearly difference can surprise you — especially where electricity is expensive.
Good to know
One load gives the cleanest comparison: about 3.3 kWh for electric versus roughly 0.22 therm for gas heat, plus a little electricity for the motor in both cases. Multiply by your weekly loads and rates to get the yearly gap.
Think payback over years, not months: gas often saves on running cost but only pays back its higher price if laundry volume is regular. All vented dryers need clear exhaust outside; heat-pump and condensing electrics can suit homes without vents.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a gas line, and what does that change? Yes. A new line and vent work add upfront cost and must meet local rules. If a line is already nearby, gas running savings build faster; if not, electric often stays cheaper overall.
Is a heat-pump dryer a good middle option? Often yes. It uses far less electricity than a standard electric model and needs no vent, though cycles run longer and the purchase price is usually higher.
Which suits 2 loads a week? At that light use, electric usually wins on total cost because the yearly energy gap stays small. Gas needs steady weekly volume to close its price premium.
Which dries faster? Gas models often reach heat sooner, so cycles can feel a little quicker with bulky loads. Electric holds steadier low heats for delicates.