Dryer Decisions Made Simple

A dryer is the perfect partner to your washer. Choosing the right one depends on fuel type, laundry space, household size, and lifestyle needs. This guide will help you make the best choice for years of worry-free laundry.

Step One: Measure Your Space

  • Width → Standard dryers are 27" wide (compact = 24"). Match washer width for side-by-side or stacking.

  • Height → Most dryers are 38–43" tall. Add height if stacking or using pedestals.

  • Depth → Standard depth = 30–34". Leave 5–6" extra behind for vent hose or gas connection.

  • Door Swing → Make sure the dryer door can open fully. Some models allow reversible doors.

  • Delivery Path → Measure doorways, stairways, and hallways to ensure smooth delivery.

💡 Tip: For stacked setups, measure total height with washer + stacking kit included.

 Step Two: Choose Your Fuel Type

Electric Dryer

✅ Easy to install (requires 240V outlet)

✅ Lower upfront cost

❌ Higher long-term energy costs

Best for: Homes without gas hookups

Gas Dryer

✅ Faster drying, lower operating cost

✅ Gentler on clothes (moist heat)

❌ Higher upfront cost, requires gas line & professional install

Best for: Homes with natural gas

Step Three: Venting Options

Vented → Standard, requires duct to the outside. Best drying performance.

Ventless (Condenser or Heat Pump)

Ideal for apartments or homes without exterior venting

More energy-efficient, but longer drying cycles

Step Four: Decide on Capacity

  • Small (3.5–4.4 cu. ft.) → Singles/couples, small laundry space

  • Medium (5.5–7.0 cu. ft.) → Small families

  • Large (7.1–8.0 cu. ft.) → Medium to large households

  • Extra Large (8.1+ cu. ft.) → Families who wash bedding, comforters, and bulky loads

💡 Always match dryer capacity to washer capacity — a 5 cu. ft. washer typically pairs with a 7–7.5 cu. ft. dryer.

Step Five: Must-Have Features

Moisture Sensors → Prevent over-drying and save energy.

Steam Refresh Cycle → Reduces wrinkles and odors.

Wrinkle Guard / Extended Tumble → Keeps clothes moving after cycle ends.

Sanitize Cycle → High-heat option to kill germs.

Smart Features → Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, cycle alerts.

Reverse Tumble (Ventless Models) → Improves drying efficiency.

Interior Drum Light → Helps spot small items like socks.

Step Six: Energy Efficiency

Look for ENERGY STAR® certified dryers.

Heat pump dryers use up to 50% less energy.

Moisture sensors reduce utility bills and protect fabrics.

Step Seven: Budget & Value

  • Entry-Level (Basic Electric/Gas) → $400–$700

  • Mid-Range (Sensor Dry, Wrinkle Guard) → $700–$1,000

  • Premium (Steam, Smart, Heat Pump) → $1,200+

💡 Scratch & Dent/Open-Box → Save 30–60% off MSRP with minor cosmetic blemishes.

 Step Eight: Lifestyle Fit

Singles/Couples → Small or ventless models.

Families → Medium or large capacity with moisture sensors.

Parents → Steam + sanitize for kids’ clothes.

Apartment Living → Compact or ventless models.