Typical electric dryer power
Full-size electric resistance dryers often draw roughly 2,000 to 5,000 watts while heating. Heat-pump dryers generally use less power but may run longer. The label, manual, or circuit information can help identify the actual input rating.
Convert weekly loads to daily hours
For three one-hour loads per week, enter about 0.43 hours per day. For a simple per-cycle estimate, enter the cycle duration and read the daily result as the cost of that one modeled cycle.
Example: a 3,000W dryer for one hour
A 3 kW dryer running for one hour uses 3 kWh. At 17¢ per kWh, the modeled cycle costs about 51¢. Repeating that every day would be about $15.30 per 30-day month.
Ways to reduce drying energy
- Use the washer's high-spin option to remove more water.
- Clean the lint filter for airflow and safety.
- Avoid overdrying by using moisture sensing.
- Dry similar fabrics together and air-dry suitable items.
Clothes dryer FAQ
Does the dryer use its rated watts for the whole cycle?
Not always. The heating element cycles and cooldown periods use less power, so label watts multiplied by full cycle time can be conservative.
What about a gas dryer?
This calculator covers electricity only. A gas dryer also has fuel cost that must be calculated separately.
Why do heat-pump dryers take longer?
They recycle heat at lower power. A longer cycle can still use less total energy than high-power resistance heating.