ENERGY STAR certified dryers use 20 percent less energy than conventional models without sacrificing features or performance. They do this using innovative energy saving technologies, such as moisture sensors that detect when clothes are dry and automatically shut the dryer off. Many ENERGY STAR dryers also include convenient features, such as steam cycles that can help save time on ironing clothes by preventing wrinkles.
More than 80 percent of American homes have a clothes dryer, so the savings opportunity is huge. If all clothes dryers sold in the US were ENERGY STAR certified, Americans could save $1.5 billion each year in utility costs and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to more than 2 million vehicles. To choose a dryer that saves energy and money while protecting the environment, look for the ENERGY STAR label.
Many of the latest dryer models are available in both electric and gas versions, so you can choose which option is right for you.
Gas dryers may cost less to operate, depending on the electric and gas rates in your area, but may have a slightly higher initial price tag. Like most electric dryers, gas models require venting to the outside of the home, in addition gas models also require a dedicated gas line which may not be practical for some types of housing and could add to the cost of installation.
Electric dryers may be slightly less expensive to purchase initially, but may be more costly to run than gas models, depending on your area’s utility rates. For homes where outside venting may not be practical, ventless electric models are available that do not require venting. Electric dryers do not require a dedicated gas line, but most standard sized models require a 240 V outlet. Alternatively, some compact dryers are available for a 120 V outlet.
Combined Energy Factor (CEF) is a measure of energy efficiency that reflects the energy use of the clothes dryer - the higher the CEF, the more energy efficient the clothes dryers.