Electric vs. Gas
Many of the latest dryer models are available in both electric and gas versions, so you can choose which option is right for you.
Heat Pump Dryers
For even more savings, consider ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryers - they can save 20-60 percent more than conventional clothes dryers. Consumers with high clothes dryer usage and high electricity rates have the potential for large energy and cost savings.
Heat pump dryers take in ambient air, heat it, and then recirculate it in the dryer to maintain the temperature without using much energy. Rather than releasing moist air through a dryer vent to the exterior of the home as a conventional dryer does, a heat pump dryer passes humid air in the dryer drum through a condenser to remove the moisture without losing too much heat. The condensed moisture (water) from the drum is drained or emptied out of a holding tank in the dryer.
When considering a heat pump model, keep in mind:
Choose the right size for your capacity needs:
Choose a model with a high Combined Energy Factor (CEF)
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. You can find and compare the CEF for all certified dryer models using the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
Increasing Functionality and Performance