Gas Vs Electric Dryer Calculator Cost

Cost Comparison Formulas:

\[ \text{Gas Cost} = \left(\frac{\text{BTU}}{100,000} \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate Gas}\right) \] \[ \text{Electric Cost} = (\text{kW} \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate Elec}) \]

BTU (BTU/hour):

BTU/hr

Hours (hours):

hours

Rate Gas (USD/therm):

$/therm

kW (kW):

Rate Elec (USD/kWh):

$/kWh

Gas Dryer Cost:

Electric Dryer Cost:

Cheaper Option:

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1. What is This Calculator?

This calculator compares the operating costs of gas versus electric clothes dryers. It helps determine which type would be more economical based on your local utility rates and dryer specifications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

\[ \text{Gas Cost} = \left(\frac{\text{BTU}}{100,000} \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate Gas}\right) \] \[ \text{Electric Cost} = (\text{kW} \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate Elec}) \]

Where:

$ BTU $ — Gas dryer energy input rate (BTU/hour)
$ Hours $ — Usage time in hours
$ Rate Gas $ — Natural gas price per therm
$ kW $ — Electric dryer power consumption
$ Rate Elec $ — Electricity price per kWh

Explanation: 1 therm = 100,000 BTU. The calculator converts gas input to therms before calculating cost.

3. Importance of Cost Comparison

Details: Choosing between gas and electric dryers involves upfront costs and long-term operating expenses. Gas dryers typically cost more to purchase but often have lower operating costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Find BTU rating on gas dryer's energy guide label
kW rating is on electric dryer's specification plate
Check your utility bills for current gas and electric rates
Estimate your weekly drying hours (average load takes 30-45 minutes)

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which is generally cheaper to operate?
A: Gas dryers are usually cheaper to operate, but this depends on local utility rates. In areas with expensive gas or cheap electricity, electric may be better.

Q2: What are typical BTU ratings for gas dryers?
A: Most residential gas dryers range from 18,000 to 25,000 BTU/hour.

Q3: What are typical kW ratings for electric dryers?
A: Electric dryers typically range from 4.0 to 6.5 kW.

Q4: Should I consider other factors besides cost?
A: Yes - also consider installation requirements (gas line vs 240V outlet), environmental impact, and drying performance.

Q5: How accurate are these estimates?
A: They provide a good comparison but actual costs may vary based on dryer efficiency, load sizes, and moisture levels.