Gas vs Electric Dryer Cost Calculator

$/kWh
$/therm

The Gas vs Electric Dryer Cost Calculator compares the annual running cost of a gas and an electric clothes dryer from your usage and energy rates. Enter loads per week and your rates.

Formula

Electric ≈ 3.3 kWh/load; Gas ≈ 0.22 therm + 0.15 kWh/load; × loads/year × rates
  • Gas dryers usually cost less per load but have higher purchase and installation costs.
  • Energy use per load varies by model and load size.

5 loads/week

Inputs
  • Loads per Week: 5
  • Electricity Rate: 0.15 $/kWh
  • Gas Rate: 1.2 $/therm

260 loads/yr: electric ≈ $128.70, gas ≈ $74.36, so gas saves about $54/yr.

Frequently asked questions

Is a gas or electric dryer cheaper to run?
Gas dryers are usually cheaper per load, but the savings depend on local gas and electricity rates and your usage.