Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator
Compare dryer operating cost per load and per year for electric and gas models.
The calculator includes electricity use, gas energy use, and a direct cost comparison.
Result
--
Run the calculation to see the comparison.
| Metric | Electric dryer | Gas dryer |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per load | -- | -- |
| Annual cost | -- | -- |
| Energy per load | -- | -- |
| Difference | -- | |
Quick Answer
The electric dryer cost is based on wattage and electricity price. The gas dryer cost is based on BTU input, gas price, and load time.
How to Calculate
- Enter the load time and how many loads you dry each week.
- Enter the electric dryer wattage and electricity price.
- Enter the gas dryer BTU input and gas price.
- Click Calculate to compare both costs.
Formula
Electric cost per load = wattage x hours / 1000 x electricity rate
Gas cost per load = BTU per hour x hours / 100000 x gas rate
Annual cost = cost per load x loads per week x 52
Worked Examples
Example 1: A 3000 W electric dryer running 45 minutes at $0.18 per kWh costs about $0.41 per load.
Example 2: A 22000 BTU/hr gas dryer running 45 minutes at $1.25 per therm costs about $0.21 per load.
Example 3: Multiply the per-load cost by weekly loads and 52 to estimate annual spending.
How to Interpret Your Results
| Output | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per load | Operating cost for a single cycle. | Use it to compare dryer types. |
| Annual cost | Estimated yearly dryer expense. | Use it for appliance budgeting. |
| Difference | Which dryer is cheaper in your setup. | Use it to decide between gas and electric. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
References
- OmniCalculator reference page
- Dryer operating cost depends on load time, energy use, and utility prices.
- Last reviewed: March 2026.