Dryer Buying Guide

Dryer Buying Guide

Buying a new dryer isn’t just about drying you're clothes. You also want one that fits your home, your budget, and how often you do laundry.


 1. Types of Dryers

Electric Dryer

Electric Dryers

When buying a new dryer, the first big choice is whether you want a gas or electric model. Both types will dry your clothes, but they work in different ways and have different pros and cons.


Design: Electric dryers plug into a big 240-volt outlet and use electricity to heat the air that dries your clothes.

Best For: Most homes, especially if you already have an electric dryer plug.


Pros

  • Easier to install (just plug it in)

  • Lower cost to buy

  • Widely available

Cons

  • May cost more to run over time (if electricity is expensive in your area)

  • Takes a little longer to dry clothes than gas dryers

Gas Dryer

Gas Dryers

Design: Electric dryers plug into a big 240-volt outlet and use electricity to heat the air that dries your clothes.

Best For: Most homes, especially if you already have an electric dryer plug.


Pros

  • Dries clothes faster

  • Usually cheaper to run over time

  • Good for large families with lots of laundry

Cons

  • Costs more to buy

  • Needs professional installation

  • You need a gas line

 2. Sizing and Installation Requirements

Before making your decision, make sure it fits in your setup.


Standard Dryer Sizes

Standard dryers are usually 26 to 30 inches wide, 28 to 34 inches deep, and 38 to 40 inches tall, with a capacity of 7.0 to 7.5 cubic feet - perfect for most homes and average laundry loads. European dryers are typically 24 inches wide.


Types of Installations

Electric Dryer: 240-volt outlet (3-prong or 4-prong). Dryer power cord (may be sold separately). Vent duct (metal only—no plastic)

Gas Dryer: 120-volt outlet. Natural gas or propane line connection for Flexible gas connector. Vent duct (metal only—no plastic)


Measure your space

Measure doorways, hallways, and the appliance location carefully.


 3. Key Features to Consider

Today’s dryers offer more than just basic drying capabilities. Depending on your budget, you might want to consider these special features


Smart Dryer Features

Connects to your phone or smart home system so you can get alerts, start or stop cycles remotely, and get maintenance reminders.


Moisture Sensor

Automatically stops the dryer when clothes are dry to save energy and protect fabrics.


Multiple Heat Settings
Gives you control for different fabrics—low heat for delicates, high heat for towels or jeans.


Wrinkle Prevention
Tumbles clothes after the cycle ends to help keep them from wrinkling if you don’t take them out right away.


Steam Function
Uses steam to reduce wrinkles, odors, and the need for ironing.


Large Capacity Drum
A bigger drum lets you dry more clothes at once—great for families or large loads.


Quick Dry Option
Dries small or lightly soiled loads faster when you're in a hurry.


End-of-Cycle Signal
Lets you know when the load is finished so clothes don’t sit too long.


Reversible Door
Lets you switch which way the door opens to fit your laundry space better.


Interior Light
Helps you see inside the dryer drum, so you don’t leave anything behind.


Energy Efficiency
Models with the ENERGY STAR® label use less energy and can save money over time.


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