Clothes dryer electric
Want a clothes dryer that is more efficient and gentler on your clothes?
Read more about Clothes dryer electricWe like all types of electric clothes dryers, but we especially love heat pump clothes dryers. Heat pump clothes dryers use less energy, don’t require ventilation, and are gentler on clothes.
Why do it?
Electric dryers don’t burn fossil fuels or release carbon pollution, and heat pump clothes dryers are the most efficient type of electric dryer.
When?
When your current dryer is near end-of-life.
Who is this for?
Homeowners and renters.
Read more about heat pump clothes dryers
Upfront cost
$1,000+
Average lifespan
10-13 years
Average annual energy savings
$15–$45
Features
Can be placed anywhere in home; doesn’t require ventilation
Difficulty
Easy, but you might need an electrician if you’re switching from gas to electric
Energy savings
Uses 50 percent less energy compared to standard dryers
Heat pump clothes dryers are efficient and good for the climate.
Federal
Guide to heat pump clothes dryers
Find out why heat pump clothes dryers are more energy efficient and better for your home and the environment.
What is a heat pump clothes dryer
Combo washer/heat pump dryers: are they for you?
How heat pump clothes dryers work
Heat pump vs. condenser dryer
Why upgrade to a heat pump dryer
2. Upgrade your electrical wiring, if needed
Figure out what type of dryer you currently have. If your dryer is plugged into a big, round 240 Volt outlet, you have an electric dryer. If your dryer has a hose (that’s often yellow) connected to the back, you have a gas dryer. If you can’t find either of these two things, look for a label on your dryer.
If you currently have an electric dryer: You probably don’t need to upgrade your wiring.
If you currently have a gas or propane dryer: You’ll likely need a new 240 Volt, 20 or 30 Amp circuit, unless you choose a 120 Volt dryer. Check out our panels and wiring page for more details. You’ll also likely need a contractor (like a plumber) to cut and cap the existing fuel line.
3. Select and purchase a dryer
Read reviews and shop around online to find a dryer that meets your needs. Consider features like energy efficiency, drying time, dryer capacity, and whether the dryer is vented or ventless. If you select a heat pump dryer, many models are compact (4 cubic feet), although full size (6+ cubic feet) models are also available. But don’t discount the compact models too quickly — studies have found that 95% of loads people dry would actually fit inside a compact dryer!
4. Install your dryer
Most big-box retailers will provide installation options when you purchase an appliance. Install and enjoy your climate-friendly new clothes dryer!
How do heat pump clothes dryers drain water?
Many models come with a hose for draining the water into an existing drain, but some come with a water tank that will need to be emptied after use.
How do I pick the right size for my heat pump dryer?
A common recommendation is to size your dryer with about twice the capacity of your washing machine. Many heat pump dryers are compact (4 cubic feet), although there are some full-size heat pump dryers with a 7.4 cubic foot drum that are comparable to regular vented dryers.
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