At a Glance:
How Many Years Does a Dryer Last?
What's the Price Difference Between Gas and Electric Dryers?
Gas vs Electric Dryers: What You Need to Know
5 Things to Consider Before Buying a New Dryer
Like with any appliances, the more features your washer and dryer have, the more expensive they will be. There is a wide difference between the high and low pricing points for both types of laundry appliances.
Your washing routine can be more effective and convenient with a clothes dryer. The ability to steam clothes to remove wrinkles or a having a door that opens in different directions to make loading and unloading simpler are two features that certain models offer. Numerous dryers were examined, tested, and scored based on their capacity, intelligence, practical features, and simplicity of installation.
Find all of our Colder's dryer suggestions below and scroll down for expert assistance on how to choose the ideal dryer for your particular laundry needs. We'll also answer questions like "how much does a dryer cost?" and "what influences dryer prices?"
Related: Time for a New Laundry Pair? - Colder's is Your One Stop Shop!
What is a Dryer?
By eliminating moisture from your garments after washing, a dryer is an appliance that works in conjunction with washing machines. Although dryers come in various shapes and sizes, they all use a combination of heat, air, and motion to dry your garments.
Types of Dryers
Now that you understand what a dryer is and how it operates, let's look at the available various dryer kinds.
All-in-One Washer Dryer
The dryers that are most frequently found in households are of this type across the ocean. This kind of appliance combines the washer and dryer into one unit. However, because this style of dryer does not generate heat, you must still spread your clothing out for them to dry properly.
Standalone Dryer
This kind of dryer is an independent device. Therefore, you need two appliances to complete your task —one for washing and the other for drying. Both machines cost more, but dryers produce enough heat to quickly dry your garments. It is frequently observed at laundry service providers. However, if the size of both appliances is the same, and you have a front loading washer, it is recommended to stack dryers on top of washing machines in order to maximize your available space.
Washer and Dryer Set
The dryer may be included alongside the washer in some home appliances. You may do your laundry more efficiently with them because they are frequently sold together. These sets work best in commercial laundry service facilities because of their efficiency; they can handle substantially larger laundry loads.
How Many Years Does a Dryer Last?
Clothes dryers typically last 10 to 13 years when properly maintained. Your dryer probably won't last as long as it would for a single person who doesn't produce a lot of filthy clothing if you have a big family and do a lot of laundry. A dryer operates more effectively and puts less stress on the appliance when it is clean and free of lint, which can increase its lifespan. If the dryer has minor problems, getting an expert to fix it might also extend its lifespan.
Find Your Next Dryer at Colder's
DryersHow Much Does a Dryer Cost?
When it comes to washer and dryer expenses, Kitchens.com states that the dryer cost can often range from $200 to $1,750. If you're purchasing a new washing machine at the same time, expect to pay nearly twice that price. If your current set-up is insufficient for your new dryer, you can also incur additional installation costs.
The size of the dryer, the power source, and the additional features you select are all factors in the price.
Budget Models
A budget model, which would run you between $200 and $400, is inexpensive if money is your main concern. This choice is suitable for a second dryer, a starter home, or low-use scenarios where extra functions are not important. The most affordable dryers usually include plastic drums, manual dial controls to switch between three temperature settings, and a limited number of cycle options.
Mid-Range Models
If you have a little more money to spend, you can get a mid-range dryer for between $400 and $800. You will typically receive an upgrade to a tough stainless steel drum with a bigger capacity than the entry-level models. You'll discover a wide variety of gas and electric dryers in this price range, many of which have more cycles and settings. At this higher price tier, some might come with electronic controls.
High-End Models
The most expensive models, which start at roughly $800 and go up to about $1,750, include high-end amenities to match the higher price tag. They frequently offer the widest range of cycles and setting options, providing you with more alternatives for drying garments.
Other features you may discover that high-end dryers may also include:
- Wi-Fi connectivity that lets you control the dryer from anywhere using an app
- Alerts and monitoring options from the app
- Electronic or touchscreen controls
- Noise-reduction features for quieter operation
- Moisture sensors to set the cycle length automatically
- Lint cleaning alerts when the lint trap is full
- Steam dry settings
- Remote diagnostics options to troubleshoot at home without calling a technician
- Connection to virtual home assistant devices for voice-activated controls
- Upgraded finishes in various colors
- Premium design features that make the dryer look upscale
Each additional feature raises the dryer's overall cost. When weighing your selections, consider which features you require or want as well as which ones are unnecessary expenses.
What's the Price Difference Between Gas and Electric Dryers?
Approximately $100 more is spent on a gas dryer than an equivalent electric unit. For instance, mid-range gas dryers may cost between $500 and $750, and mid-range electric dryers typically cost between $400 and $600.
However, gas dryers are typically less expensive to run. Gas is typically more affordable than electricity, which explains why. In a gas dryer, a load of laundry typically costs between 15 and 25 cents to dry. The same load would cost between 30 and 40 cents to dry in an electric dryer. Due to their instantaneous heat, gas dryers also enable speedier drying of clothing.
The cheapest alternative is to buy a dryer with the same power source as you already have. The cost of installation will be greatly increased if you go from gas to electric or vice versa because a technician will likely need to install the proper power source in your laundry room.
Gas vs Electric Dryers: What You Need to Know
In order to give you a better idea of which laundry appliance you might be willing to invest in, our specialists at Colder's have prepared the chart below, which compares the benefits and drawbacks of gas and electric dryers.
|
Product Features |
Electric Dryer |
Gas Dryer |
|
Price Range |
$495–$4,080 |
$585–$2,050 |
|
Energy Use |
Costs more based on electric rates of area |
Cost less to operate since these dryers use gas |
|
Cycles |
Elements need time to heat, resulting in longer drying times |
Maximizes drying time |
|
Installation |
Quick installation |
Professional installation recommended |
|
Maintenance |
Low maintenance |
Professional |
Gas Dryer Overview
✅ Energy-efficient
✅ Shorter Cycles times
✅ Only Requires a Standard Electrical Outlet
❌ Needs Placement Near Outdoor Vents
❌ Not as Affordable
Gas dryers are the best option for a family looking to purchase a laundry appliance that won't cost them more over time. These are ideal for people who wish to use less energy without sacrificing performance, so doing the laundry doesn't take all day.
In order to prevent gas leaks and a vent from running outside, it is necessary to hire a professional to install and fit the gas line connections (assuming you don't already have one). All that's left to do is plug the dryer into a regular electrical outlet in the specified laundry room.
Electric Dryer Overview
✅ More Model Varieties
✅ Inexpensive
❌ Requires 240-Volt Outlet
❌ Longer Cycle Times
❌ More Electricity Usage
The ideal alternative for a homeowner who wants to stay within their budget but still have model and feature options is an electric dryer. These dryers are excellent if you want something that is simple to install and maintain.
A 240-volt outlet is all needed for an electric dryer's installation to generate enough heat to tumble-dry your clothes, bedding, and other items.
The 4 Best Dryers
We looked into a range of electric, smart, LG, and Electrolux models and brands to identify the best dryers. Our Colder's team picked some of the market's top selections with their experienced understanding.
Here are the top dryers that Colder's has to offer.
Related: Top 5 Best Washer and Dryer Sets
Best Speed Queen Dryer: Speed Queen® DR7 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
It's no wonder Speed Queen is regarded as the most dependable brand of laundry appliances; its dryer won't let you down, either. Speed Queen was founded on a commercial quality legacy that dates back more than a century. This 7.0-cu.ft. sanitizing dryer with a white finish is outfitted with Pet Plus, which contains specialized pet cycles that can remove pet hair and offer your clothing the best treatment possible. Its performance and dependability will give you true peace of mind. To get a load of spotless, wrinkle-free clothing with no cling and no bacteria, you can also benefit from the sanitize, anti-wrinkle, and static cycles that use steam, longer tumbling, steam sanitization, and anti-static.
Why We Like It:
- 7.0 cu. ft. capacity dryer
- Over-Dry Protection Technology
- Pet Plus
Best LG Dryer: LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Black Steel Front Load Electric Dryer
This LG dryer has built-in intelligence, quiet operation, and more cutting-edge capabilities that won't let you down during your laundry journey. Every laundry day, you save time and money on your energy bill by using AI technology that automates the drying process and provides the best dry settings. Utilize ThinQ® technology to remotely monitor your load while spending time with your family and dry your laundry without disturbing the rest of the house. Most importantly, using the TurboSteam™ technology, wrinkles, static, and odors that have been trapped in your textiles will be removed from your clothing and bedding without the need for pre-washing.
Why We Like It:
- 7.4 cu. ft. capacity
- ThinQ Technology
- TurboSteam Technology
See LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Black Steel Front Load Electric Dryer Reviews
Best Electrolux Washer and Dryer: Electrolux Island White Laundry Pair
You can't go wrong with an Electrolux washer and dryer set as they are the industry leader and have improved living for more than 100 years. The LuxCare Wash System was created with features and capabilities like a 20-minute fast wash for quick and thorough cleanings, temperature control, and smart load sensors, all while being ENERGY STAR certified, proving its energy-efficient performance and aligning with Electrolux's commitment to sustainability. Thanks to the moisture sensors, the 8.0-cu.ft. capacity dryer will keep your clothes looking their best without over-drying. Like its washer counterpart, it also has a 20-minute fast dry mode in addition to seven others for each fabric.
This model is equipped with a Luxury-Quiet sound system to ensure that family movie night or Friday night charades with friends don't get drowned out by the sound of laundry day.
Why We Like It:
- 4.3 cu. ft. capacity washer
- 8.0 cu. ft. capacity dryer
- LuxCare Wash System
Best LG Washer and Dryer: LG Laundry Pair-White
With LG's top-rated front-load washer and dryer for energy efficiency, you can wash less and save more. Wash larger loads with a 5.2-cu.-ft. washer's capacity thanks to TurboWash 360's washing technology, ThinQ programming, and smart matching with the 7.3-cu.-ft. dryer's capacity. The EasyLoad door feature on the dryer simplifies loading and unloading by allowing the door to swing down or from the side. The dryer also uses TurboSteam technology, SteamFresh and SteamSanitary cycles, as well as SteamFresh and SteamSanitary cycles for the best possible dry and AI fabric sensors and smart pairing for the best possible clean.
Why We Like It:
- 5.2 cu. ft. capacity washer
- 7.3 cu. ft. capacity dryer
- ThinQ technology
4 Ways of Maintaining Dryers
Your dryer needs maintenance to work properly and last longer, just like any other equipment. Here are some simple methods for keeping them both at home and at places of business.
- Don't dry dirty garments in the dryer. It is preferable to wash your garments in the washing machine first if they are untidy before putting them in the dryer.
- The lint buildup in the lint trap needs to be cleaned out.
- Dust could settle on the area of the floor where the dryer is installed and behind the device. This dust could impact performance. Clean the area behind your dryers, including the wall and floor.
- Your dryer may not be properly balanced, which could cause it to shake and harm various components of the device.
5 Things to Consider Before Buying a New Dryer
Given that there are so many dryers on the market and that they may be a significant investment, you should be careful to choose the one that best meets your requirements. Based on our experience, we've identified eight crucial factors for you to consider when purchasing a new dryer.
1. Know if you need a washer and dryer set or just a dryer
When looking for a dryer, you should first decide whether you need a new one or whether it's time to replace your full washer and dryer set.
It makes sense to choose a dryer only if your dryer recently broke or isn't working quite as you had hoped. Think about if you want your washer and dryer to match. If your laundry set is tucked away in a basement or behind doors, you might not care if they don't match. But it could also be necessary to change the washer if you want a matching set.
In this case, the brand is crucial as well. See what new models the manufacturer has in stock if your dryer lasted 10 years and operated beautifully until it needed to be replaced. If your dryer only lasted a year or less, look into alternative brands. Also, if you bought your washer and dryer together, that doesn't say anything about the washer's quality.
Additionally, keep in mind that laundry sets should last for several years, so if you decide to get a dryer only, be prepared to live with a mismatched set until the washer gives out.
2. Set a budget—and stick to it
You typically receive a discount when you buy equipment in pairs, such as refrigerators and dishwashers or washers and dryers. Another excellent approach to save a few hundred dollars on appliances is to shop around holidays like Black Friday, Labor Day, or Memorial Day. But any way you look at it, you'll be parting with quite a bit of cash.
Set yourself a budget before you start shopping to ensure that you hold yourself responsible. Ultimately, when it comes to answering, “ how much does a dryer cost,” the answer can get pricier based on the features you need and want for your household. A good dryer may be found for less than $500, but our top dryers will put you back more than that.
3. Know which features are most important to you
In the past 30 years, dryers have advanced significantly. Some units now offer steaming, sanitizing, customization for bedding, and eco-friendly cycle options. Start looking into popular characteristics as you look for a new dryer to determine which are most significant to you.
Investing in a dryer with a steam cycle is an excellent choice if you require a wrinkle-free dryer or you don't have the time to run an iron over your dress shirts and blouses. Choose an energy-efficient model with environmentally friendly drying cycles instead if you want to lessen your environmental impact.
4. Pick a dryer that suits your household size
"How often do I wash laundry?" and "What size dryer do I need?" are two key considerations, as well as "How much laundry do I have?" Because my spouse and I live in a small home together, we do two loads of laundry once every week. Five of us lived in the same house with my parents, and some of us were considerably more clumsy than others, spilling liquids all over blankets, rugs, and towels on a nearly regular basis. I feel like the dryer was constantly running when I was a child.
High-capacity washers and dryers are essential for large families with a lot of laundry. You want a dryer with a drum big enough to hold each item. Similarly, choose a dryer that runs its cycle fast or, at the very least, doesn't take three hours to dry your clothes if you don't want the laundry to take over your life (or your electricity bill).
5. Know how quickly you need clothes to dry
Whether you're doing loads for two people or seven, dryer speed is something to take into account. However, keep an eye on the temperature those dryers use; running one on its hottest setting may get your clothes done quickly, but if your dryer runs too hot, it could ruin your clothes. Most dryers have several cycles that allow you to control your speed, including a rapid cycle and a normal cycle, but watch out for the temperature those dryers use. If you find a dryer that finishes your laundry fast at a higher temperature than 150 degrees Fahrenheit, the danger might not be worth it. However, you really shouldn't want your dryer to run hotter than that.
Come on down to Colder's for the finest rates and appliance assistance in the Milwaukee region if you're looking to buy the best washer and dryer, standalone dryer, or just answers to queries like "how much a washer and dryer costs" or "how much does a dryer cost."
Why Trust Colder's?
Since 1942, we at Colder's pride ourselves on offering value, selection, and service. Serving Southeastern Wisconsin with four showrooms that stock quality name-brand furniture, appliances, and mattresses, Colder's is sure to house exactly what you are looking for. And if you can't find it on our floors, chances are, we can order it for you. As a local, family-owned company, we are always doing our best to provide the highest value at the lowest cost to everyone who walks through our doors.
Colder's is committed not only to continuously offering can't-miss sales but also to working with each customer, making sure that you take advantage of every possible markdown — that's our best price guarantee.
Shop Dryers at Colder's
Don't put off happiness — and shop dryers online for unbeatable prices at Colder's. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you answer questions like, "how much does a dryer cost" to find your ideal dryer in your budget, whether you call us at 414-476-1574 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one our Colder's locations in West Allis, Oak Creek, Delafield, and Grafton, Wisconsin to touch, see, feel, and experience home products that fulfill your dreams. Visit us today!
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