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How much does it cost to run a clothes dryer?

Last reviewed Oct 31, 2026. Figures from the EPA ENERGY STAR data in this build and EIA prices.

The EPA lists each certified dryer's estimated yearly energy use at 283 loads a year on the normal cycle. Multiply by your price to get the yearly cost; divide by 283 for a rough cost per load.

TypeModelsMedian energyYearly costPer load
Electric vented244608 kWh$110$0.39
Electric ventless (incl. heat pump)42274 kWh$50$0.18
Full-size heat pump models29257 kWh$47$0.16
Gas187687 kWh-eq$35$0.12

Electric at 18.16¢ per kWh (EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A, August 2026). Gas at $1.48 per therm (EIA Natural Gas Prices, U.S. average residential price, 2025 annual average ($15.34 per thousand cubic feet, released Sep 30, 2026)). The EPA reports gas dryers as one kWh-equivalent figure for gas and electricity combined, which we price as gas.

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