Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator 

Usage Guide

1. Input Time per Drying Cycle

•Field: Time per Drying Cycle (min)

•Description: Enter the duration of each drying cycle in minutes (e.g., 60).

2. Input Drying Loads per Week

•Field: Drying Loads per Week

•Description: Specify how many loads you dry each week (e.g., 7).

3. Electric Dryer Inputs

•Electric Dryer Wattage (kW):

•Description: Enter the electric dryer’s power rating in kilowatts (e.g., 3.0).

•Electricity Consumption per Load (kWh):

•Description: Input the energy used per drying load (e.g., 0.3).

•Unit Electricity Cost ($/kWh):

•Description: Enter the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (e.g., 0.12).

4. Gas Dryer Inputs

•Gas Dryer Wattage (kW):

•Description: Enter the gas dryer’s power rating for electrical components in kilowatts (e.g., 2.0).

•Gas Consumption per Load (kWh):

•Description: Input the gas energy used per drying load (e.g., 0.2).

•Gas Rating (W):

•Description: Enter the gas dryer’s gas rating in watts (e.g., 20000).

•Unit Gas Cost ($/kWh):

•Description: Enter the cost of gas per kilowatt-hour (e.g., 0.05).

5. Calculate Costs

•Button: Calculate Costs

•Action: Processes the inputs and displays the results for both electric and gas dryers.

6. Export as PDF

•Button: Export as PDF

•Action: Generates a PDF document containing the input data and calculated costs, including the logo.

7. Reset the Calculator

•Button: Reset

•Action: Clears all inputs and results, allowing you to perform a new calculation.

Benefits of Using the Gas vs Electric Dryer Calculator

1. Cost Comparison:

•Easily compare the operational costs of using a gas dryer versus an electric dryer based on your specific usage patterns and energy rates.

2. Energy Management:

•Understand how different factors like drying time, load frequency, and energy costs impact your overall drying expenses.

3. Informed Decision-Making:

•Make educated choices when purchasing a new dryer by evaluating the long-term costs associated with gas and electric models.

4. Customization:

•Tailor the calculator to your individual needs by adjusting variables such as drying time, load frequency, and energy rates.

5. Financial Planning:

•Incorporate dryer operational costs into your household budget, helping you manage expenses more effectively.

6. Environmental Awareness:

•Assess the energy consumption of different dryer types, promoting more sustainable and eco-friendly appliance choices.

Pros and Cons of Gas vs Electric Dryers

Electric Dryers

Pros:

1. Easier Installation:

•Typically requires only a standard electrical outlet, making setup simpler.

2. Lower Initial Cost:

•Electric dryers are generally less expensive to purchase upfront compared to gas models.

3. Availability:

•Widely available and compatible with most homes.

Cons:

1. Higher Operating Costs:

•Depending on electricity rates, electric dryers can be more expensive to operate over time.

2. Longer Drying Times:

•Electric models may take longer to dry clothes compared to gas dryers.

3. Energy Consumption:

•Consumes significant electricity, impacting energy bills and environmental footprint.

Gas Dryers

Pros:

1. Lower Operating Costs:

•Gas dryers often cost less to operate due to lower gas prices compared to electricity.

2. Faster Drying Times:

•Typically dry clothes faster, saving time and energy.

3. Energy Efficiency:

•More energy-efficient, reducing overall energy consumption.

Cons:

1. Higher Initial Cost:

•Gas dryers are usually more expensive to purchase and install.

2. Complex Installation:

•Requires a gas line and proper ventilation, which can increase installation complexity and cost.

3. Availability:

•Not all homes have existing gas lines, limiting accessibility for some users.

Best Practices for Using the Calculator

1. Accurate Inputs:

•Ensure all input fields are filled out correctly to receive accurate cost comparisons.

2. Update Energy Rates:

•Regularly update your unit electricity and gas costs to reflect current rates for precise calculations.

3. Consider Usage Patterns:

•Input realistic values for drying time and loads per week to get meaningful results.

4. Compare Results:

•Use the calculator to evaluate which dryer type offers better savings based on your specific circumstances.

5. Factor in Installation Costs:

•While the calculator focuses on operational costs, consider the initial installation costs when making a decision.

6. Review Annual Costs:

•Look at the yearly costs to understand the long-term financial impact of your choice.