Energy Standards and Tips for Dryers
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Energy Standards for Dryers
U.S. Department of Energy standards for dryers made or sold in the United States have remained the same since 1994. Dryers don't vary significantly enough in energy usage for the government to require they have EnergyGuide labels or for the Energy Star program to qualify high-efficiency models.
The Energy Factor (EF) measures dryer energy-efficiency. It is stated in terms of pounds of clothing dried per kilowatt-hour of electricity. The higher the EF, the more efficient the dryer is. All standard-size electric dryers must have an EF of 3.01 or greater, while gas dryers must have an EF of 2.67 or more.
Electric models typically cost more money to run, depending on your local electric rates. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas dryers cost 15 to 20 cents per load to run on average, while electric dryers cost 30 to 40 cents per load.
Energy-Saving Tips
Dry full loads.
Air dry clothes when possible.
If your dryer has moisture sensors, use them. They will shut off the machine when clothes are dry.
Dry clothing and bedding with items of a similar weight.
Clean the lint filter after every load to increase air flow and decrease drying time.
Dry two or more loads in a row to take advantage of residual heat from the prior load.
