In most cases, buy the type of dryer your laundry room is already set up for. A gas hookup means a gas dryer is the easy swap, and an electric dryer outlet means electric. Converting fuels adds gas-line or electrical work, so price that work against the running-cost difference before you switch. A heat-pump dryer is the option to consider when you can’t vent outdoors or want the lowest energy use.
The three designs
| Design | Needs | Exhaust |
|---|---|---|
| Gas | Gas supply with shutoff, plus an electrical outlet for the drum, controls and ignition | Vented outdoors |
| Vented electric | The circuit and connection in the model’s installation manual | Vented outdoors |
| Heat-pump electric | The circuit in the manual, plus a drain or container for condensed water | No outdoor vent |
ENERGY STAR says heat-pump dryers can cut energy use by at least 28% compared with standard dryers. Because they don’t need a vent, they’re easier to place, and they dry at lower temperatures, which is gentler on clothes. The moisture they pull out becomes water that has to be drained. ENERGY STAR’s dryer criteria cover several voltage and venting classes, so don’t assume every electric dryer is a vented model on the same outlet. Check the exact model’s installation manual against your supply before delivery.
When switching fuels makes sense
- You’re remodeling and moving the laundry anyway.
- There’s no practical outdoor vent route, which points to a heat-pump model.
- The existing hookup is unsafe or doesn’t meet the new model’s requirements.
Get a written price for the gas or electrical work, permits, vent changes and removal of the old unit. Compare it with the running-cost difference based on your own utility rates and each model’s energy information.
Venting and fire safety
The U.S. Fire Administration says you’re at higher risk of a dryer fire if you don’t clean the lint filter and dryer vents. Its tips:
- have the dryer installed and serviced by a professional;
- never run it without a lint filter, and clean the filter before and after each load;
- clean behind the dryer, where lint collects;
- make sure the vent isn’t damaged, crushed or restricted;
- check that the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer runs.
Heat-pump and other ventless dryers have their own filters and condenser cleaning, so follow the manual. Stop using any dryer that smells of gas or scorching, and call for service.
If loads are taking longer than they used to, check the vent before blaming the dryer: Dryer Takes Longer: Check Lint and Exhaust Airflow .