Many homeowners want to know, can a gas dryer be converted to electric? They occasionally settle in a house with a gas dryer, but an electric hook-up is the only option for power as there is no gas source. You can convert electric dryers to gas, but you need conversion kits to swap parts and rewire the old dryer to use an electric heat assembly to make it an electric version, all at an additional cost.
However, purchasing a new electric dryer is more affordable than converting a gas dryer to an electric one. To switch a gas dryer to electric, you must, at the very least, replace the heating element, gas ignition, and burner assembly. In addition, you’ll also want a new electric outlet, and there are venting problems. If you get this wrong, your laundry area can develop mold.
In our guide, you can learn more about converting gas dryer to an electric one. By the end, you’ll know all the differences between what it takes to convert a gas dryer to an electric, why it could make more sense to buy a new electric dryer rather than lose energy efficiency and see a spike in your utility bills. (Learn How To Remove Cast Iron Pipe From Hub)
Differences Between Electric Dryers Vs. Gas Dryers
To further understand how an electric dryer differs from a gas one, let’s first discuss conversion in more detail. Gas burners are used in propane and other natural gas dryers to produce heat. Its operation is the same as an electric dryer’s, save for this.
Because of the energy source, there is a significant cost difference: A gas dryer’s operating costs will typically be about 50% less than dryers with electric hookups. Additionally, they require various installation procedures. Finally, the cost of buying electric and gas dryers differs significantly. Gas dryers typically cost more than a new electric dryer.
Gas Model Dryers
A gas dryer has two power sources:
- Propane cylinders
- Natural gas lines
Gas dryers need to be vented outside your house. Additionally, but not for the same reasons, electric dryers are typically vented outside your house.
The harmful particles that a gas dryer releases into the air can seriously harm your health.
Electric Model Dryers
Electric dryers utilize 240 volts to power the heating coils, while gas dryers typically run on 110 volts. This has twice as much power as a typical household current. Most electric dryers require external venting to get rid of the hot air and water vapor, much like gas models do. Although specific types don’t need vents, they are more expensive.
Difference Of Installation For Gas Dryer To Electric Version
Gas Model Dryers
The lack of a gas line installed by the local utility company makes you want to switch your dryer over to electricity. If so, installing one will be costly because underground natural gas lines will need to be connected to your property by the local gas provider.
You might consider whether gas dryers run on a liquid propane gas supply as an alternative. Dryers that use gas come pre-installed with natural gas. Most gas dryers can be converted to liquid propane (LP) gas; a conversion kit is optional.
The optional LP conversion kit includes all the components and installation instructions required to correctly convert the dryer. The gas burner remains the same; it is more the feed to the device that changes. (Read Large Gap Between Baseboard And Floor – What To Do)
Electric Model Dryers
The installation of an electric dryer is easier: You can use the appliance by connecting it to a 240-volt power supply. If your home has a laundry room, there is a chance there is already a power outlet specifically made to accommodate the dryer’s increased energy needs.
The electric dryer’s large plug has four or three prongs to accommodate the outlet. We know that electric dryers run on 240-volt currents, whereas gas dryers run on 110-volt currents.
As a result, the wiring would need to be changed to adapt your gas dryer to the higher volt current. (Read Attic Door Hinge Guide)
How Does Each Type Of Dryer Work?
The system your dryer uses to dry clothes is the same whether it is fueled by gas or electricity:
- Air
- Heat
- Tumbling action.
Both airflow and tumbling are essential. To boost the temperature inside the dryer where water evaporates, gas dryers generate heat using a burner, while electric ones use a heating element.
When an electrical current passes over a heating coil in an electric dryer, it builds up an electric charge that heats the metal. A fan or blower then expels hot air into the dryer drum.
However, an igniter burns the gas in a natural gas or propane gas dryer. The hot air is then forced into the drum by the fan or blower, just like the same system inside an electric one. (Read Difference Between Propane And Natural Gas)
Venting Systems
Both gas and electric dryers must be vented to the property’s exterior to remove hot moist are and particles of lint and other debris. Without enough dryer ventilation, the laundry room would quickly become covered in dust and mildew, which could lead to respiratory and other health issues.
In addition, a gas dryer vent expels the waste products from the burnt gas, which could be toxic over time. Since there are ventless types available and they don’t need external venting, electric dryers are a better choice for apartments.
Can A Gas Dryer Be Converted To Electric?
You may ask, can a dryer be both gas and electric? Sadly, they can’t. However, the answer to converting gas to electricity is yes; they can. Although, here are some reasons why it isn’t a workable solution. Here’s a breakdown of why gas and electric dryers are made as one type and shouldn’t be changed.
It Isn’t Cost-Effective
Gas dryers function differently from electric ones and comprise various parts. For example, an igniter, a gas burner, and other components do not present in an electric model are used in gas dryers. Therefore, every component that makes it possible to run on gas would need to be removed.
Additionally, the dryer operates at different operating temperatures and has different burner tubes, fuses, and safety features. This implies that you will require extensive wiring, currents, and appliance operation knowledge to undertake this project.
Besides this, no component mounting holes between the two types of dryers will exist. (Read Ways To Finish Drywall Without Mudding)
Dryers Use Different Electrical Currents
As was already established, electric dryers operate on 240 volts while gas dryers use a 110-volt current. As a result, you would need to upgrade your gas dryer to a stronger current, which can be risky if you are inexperienced.
Cheaper Electric Dryer Cost
The bottom line is that buying an electric dryer is cheaper than a gas dryer.
Selling your gas dryer and buying a new electric one might be the wisest action. This will be more time- and money-efficient and prevent potential conversion problems.
How To Convert From Gas To Propane
It is significantly more straightforward to convert your dryer from natural gas to propane than from electric if you wish to do so. Before capping the gas line, you can start by operating a 240-volt, single-phase circuit.
Then, you must replace specified parts, including the following:
- Controls
- Heating assembly
- Wiring
- Relays
- Are any other components to be changed?
After that, turn on the power, and your gas dryer runs on propane.
FAQ
Are gas dryers better than electric ones?
Because they operate significantly hotter than electric dryers, gas dryers can dry clothes and get rid of moist air quicker.
A gas dryer to an electric one is more cost-effective since it is less expensive. However, electric dryers use more energy and are less effective than gas dryers to generate heat.
Are gas dryers safe?
Generally speaking, gas dryers are secure, but there is a chance that gas will seep into your house. Running a gas dryer also carries the potential of carbon monoxide leakage, which in certain instances can be fatal. However, you can run a gas dryer safely if you install it correctly, with professional assistance, and vent it.
How do I know if my dryer is gas or electric?
This can be determined by power usage, as electric models are not energy efficient. For example, the gas dryer’s light, control panel, and drum are all powered by standard 110V. But to produce heat, run the drum, control panel, and light in the electric dryer, 240 is needed. (Learn How To Get Rid Of Squeaky Door)
Which is a better dryer, gas or electric?
Because of their quicker heating times and more heat output, gas dryers heat more efficiently than electric dryers. Instead of using electric dryers, this dries clothes more quickly.
A gas dryer might be a smart option to save money on electricity costs.
Do electric dryers produce carbon monoxide?
There is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from electric dryers. Only gas-burning home appliances, such as gas dryers, can produce carbon monoxide and pose a risk of poisoning. (Read Propane To Electric Conversion)
