Can You Convert a Gas Dryer to Electric?

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No.

Gas dryers and electric dryers are very different pieces of equipment.

While it may be possible to modify a gas dryer to work with electricity it is never recommended to do so.

Instead it is best to replace the gas dryer with an electric model.

When it comes to determining whether or not you can convert a gas dryer to electric there are several factors to consider.

First the wiring in your home must be able to handle the increased energy demands of an electric dryer.

If it cannot you will need to get the wiring upgraded before making the switch.

Additionally the venting system must also be able to handle the increased power of an electric dryer.

So even if your current wiring is able to support an electric dryer you may still need to upgrade your venting system before making the switch.

While it is technically possible to convert a gas dryer to an electric dryer it is by no means an easy task.

In fact it’s a project best left to a professional technician.

Reasons for Not Doing It Yourself

Gas dryers are designed to run on natural gas and converting them to run on electricity involves a complex process.

You’ll need to replace the gas lines and components with electric components as well as make sure the wiring is safe and up to local codes.

It’s definitely not a DIY project as there is potential for serious injury or even death if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Potential Cost

In addition to the safety concerns there is also the cost to consider.

The parts needed to convert a gas dryer to electric can cost hundreds of dollars and the labor cost could easily reach into the thousands.

That’s why it’s almost always more cost-effective to purchase a new electric dryer than to try and convert a gas one.

Factors to Consider Before Switching

When deciding to switch from a gas dryer to an electric model there are a few other factors to consider.

For instance if you are switching from a gas dryer to an electric one you will need to consider the differences in temperature and moisture levels between the two.

Gas dryers generally produce a hotter and more humid environment whereas electric dryers tend to produce a cooler less humid environment.

This means that you may need to adjust the settings on your electric dryer so that the clothes are not over dried.

Also you should consider the cost of the electric dryer itself.

Electric dryers tend to be more expensive than gas dryers so you need to make sure that you are willing to invest the extra money.

If you are on a budget you may want to consider a used electric dryer instead.

Conclusion

At the end of the day converting a gas dryer to an electric one is not a good idea.

Not only are the wiring and venting systems likely to need upgrading but you may also need to adjust the settings on the electric dryer to prevent over drying.

In addition electric dryers tend to be more expensive than gas dryers so you need to make sure that you are willing to invest the extra money.

If you are looking to switch from a gas dryer to an electric one it is best to replace the gas dryer with an electric model.