Can You Convert a Gas Dryer to Electric? What You Need to Know
Steven E / Wednesday April 9, 2025
When it comes to drying clothes, most people don’t think twice about the type of dryer they have. However, if you’re in the process of moving, renovating, or just looking to upgrade your appliances, you might find yourself asking: Can you convert a gas dryer to electric? It’s a good question and one that requires a bit of research to ensure you’re making the right decision for your home, safety, and budget. Let’s break it down so you can better understand the process, whether it’s worth the effort, and what you’ll need to consider.
Understanding the Basics: Gas vs. Electric Dryers
Before we get into the details of conversion, it’s essential to understand how gas and electric dryers work and the key differences between the two.
- Gas Dryers: Gas dryers run on natural gas or propane. They have a burner inside the drum that uses gas to create heat, which is then circulated by the dryer’s fan. Gas dryers are generally more energy-efficient than electric ones and can dry clothes a bit faster. They also tend to have lower operating costs in the long run because gas is typically less expensive than electricity in many areas.
- Electric Dryers: Electric dryers rely on electricity to power a heating element that generates heat for drying clothes. While they tend to be slightly less energy-efficient than gas dryers and can take a bit longer to dry clothes, they don’t require a gas line, which makes them easier to install in most homes.
So, can you convert a gas dryer to electric? Technically, it’s possible, but it’s not as simple as just swapping out one part for another. There are a few important things to consider before embarking on this project, including the cost, effort, safety, and what equipment is required.
Can You Actually Convert a Gas Dryer to Electric?
The short answer is: Yes, but it’s complicated. Converting a gas dryer to electric is not a DIY job that most homeowners can do without professional help. It’s more than just switching out the power source; it involves altering several components of the dryer. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and challenges involved in converting your gas dryer to electric.
1. The Power Supply
One of the first challenges is ensuring that you have the proper power supply for an electric dryer. Gas dryers typically run on a 120V electrical connection, which powers the drum motor and the control board. Electric dryers, however, require a much higher voltage, usually 240V.
If your home doesn’t already have a 240V outlet, you’ll need to have an electrician install one. This might involve running a new electrical line, upgrading your breaker panel, and possibly drilling holes in walls to route the wiring. This is not a job you want to tackle on your own unless you’re experienced with electrical work.
In addition to upgrading the outlet, you’ll need the correct power cord for the electric dryer. Electric dryers typically require a 3-prong or 4-prong power cord, depending on the age of your home and the electrical codes in your area. If your gas dryer is already plugged into a standard 120V outlet, you’ll need to purchase a 240V cord.
2. Gas Line Disconnection
Before you can convert your gas dryer to electric, you need to disconnect and cap off the gas line. This step is crucial for safety, as a gas leak could result in a dangerous situation.
If you’re not comfortable working with gas lines (and most people aren’t), you’ll want to hire a professional plumber or gas technician to properly disconnect and cap the gas line. Don’t attempt this on your own unless you’re licensed to work with gas, as improper disconnection can result in gas leaks that can be hazardous to you and your family.
Once the gas line is properly disconnected, it’s time to move on to the electric conversion process.
3. Converting the Heating Element
One of the most significant parts of the conversion is replacing the gas burner with an electric heating element. Gas dryers have a burner that ignites the gas to produce heat, whereas electric dryers use a heating element to generate heat from electrical current.
To convert your gas dryer to electric, you would need to replace the gas burner assembly with an electric heating element that’s compatible with your dryer model. The heating element is typically located near the back of the dryer and can be purchased from the manufacturer or a reputable parts supplier.
This process involves disassembling the dryer and removing the gas components, which can be tricky if you’re not experienced with appliance repair. The electric heating element will need to be installed, wired to the correct voltage, and connected to the dryer’s control system.
4. Reprogramming the Dryer (If Needed)
Some gas dryers have specific control boards that are designed to manage gas burners. When converting to electric, you may need to replace the control board or reprogram it to accommodate the new heating system. This is a more technical step, as it involves ensuring that the dryer’s settings are compatible with the electric heating element.
Depending on the make and model of your dryer, this can be an easy task or a more complicated one. Some dryers are designed to accommodate both gas and electric heating elements, while others may require a complete overhaul of the electrical system. It’s important to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or a professional technician before attempting this step.
5. Ventilation Considerations
Both gas and electric dryers require proper ventilation to expel hot, moist air and prevent mold and mildew buildup. Gas dryers also release exhaust fumes from combustion, so it’s important that the venting system is installed correctly.
If your gas dryer has a vent system that’s specifically designed for gas exhaust, you may need to make adjustments to ensure the vent is safe for an electric dryer. In most cases, though, the venting system for both types of dryers is similar, and the existing setup should work just fine for an electric model.
6. Cost and Professional Help
While it’s technically possible to convert a gas dryer to electric, it’s not necessarily a cost-effective option. The conversion process can be expensive and time-consuming. Between hiring professionals for the gas line disconnection, electrical upgrades, and dryer modifications, the total cost can add up quickly.
Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,500 for the necessary parts and labor, depending on your location, the complexity of the conversion, and the model of your dryer. If your home doesn’t already have a 240V outlet, you’ll need to budget for that installation as well, which can add several hundred dollars to the cost.
In many cases, it might be more cost-effective to simply buy a new electric dryer instead of converting your gas dryer. New electric dryers can range from $400 to $1,000, and while that still involves an upfront investment, it may be cheaper and more convenient than converting your existing gas dryer.
Things to Consider Before Converting
Before jumping into a conversion project, here are a few things to think about:
- Cost of Conversion vs. Buying a New Dryer: As mentioned, converting a gas dryer to electric can be expensive, especially if you need to upgrade your electrical system or replace multiple components. Sometimes, buying a new electric dryer may be more affordable in the long run.
- Long-Term Efficiency: Gas dryers tend to be more energy-efficient than electric dryers, so converting to electric might increase your energy bills. It’s important to weigh the benefits of the conversion against the potential increase in operating costs.
- Potential Resale Value: If you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, it may be easier to keep the gas dryer if there’s already a gas line in place. Buyers who prefer gas dryers won’t have to deal with the conversion process, and you could avoid the cost of installation or conversion altogether.
- Convenience of Installation: If you’re moving into a new home or renovating, it may be easier to just purchase the right dryer for the available power supply, whether it’s electric or gas. Starting from scratch can save you time and hassle.
Final Thoughts
So, can you convert a gas dryer to electric? Technically, yes, but it’s a complicated and often costly process. While it’s possible to make the switch with the help of professionals, it’s not a DIY project for most homeowners. You’ll need to consider the costs, effort, and time involved, as well as whether it’s more practical to simply purchase a new electric dryer.
If you’re set on making the conversion, be sure to work with licensed professionals to ensure the process is done safely and correctly. And always remember, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of conversion against the benefits of starting fresh with a new electric dryer.
Where To Find Us
If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.
Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. We’re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!
The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.
Keep Reading:
With nearly a decade of experience in providing top-notch customer service regarding appliance parts and repair, Steven enjoys sharing practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and interesting information to help readers stay informed.