It's a well known fact that gas clothes dryers are more economical than an electric dryer. With the price of energy rising all the time, this might be a consideration to make if you're purchasing a new machine.
Installing a gas laundry dryer in your home is a relatively easy task. All you need is an adjustable wrench, a vent kit, a flexible gas supply line, an electrical outlet and a natural gas supply.
The first step in this project is to check with your local codes department. You'll need to find out the specific laws in your area concerning electrical and natural gas needs.
Then, read and follow the manufacturer's directions in regards to installing the dryer. Basically, though, you'll need to use an adjustable wrench to connect one end of the flexible supply line to the back of the laundry dryer. Connect the other end to the natural gas supply. Make sure the connections are secure and tight so the natural gas doesn't leak out. Gas leaks can easily result in dangerous fires and explosions.
The third step is to read and follow the manufacturer's directions on the vent package. You'll need to attach one end of the vent onto the back of the dryer. The other end will be connected to the vent on the wall. Make sure that you connect both ends securely. This hose takes dangerous fumes and harmful moisture out of your house.
Next, plug the gas laundry dryer into a suitable electric outlet. Carefully slide the dryer into place without disturbing the lines behind it.
In order for your gas laundry dryer to work its best, it should be level. Use a level to check to see if the machine is level at all four legs. If it's not, then you'll adjust the legs. Have an assistant lift the dryer up while you turn one or more of the four legs either to the left or to the right. Turning a leg to the right will raise it, or make it shorter, while turning it to the left will lower it, or make it longer. Keep checking the levelness of the gas dryer with the level and adjust the legs as needed.
Finally, turn the natural gas supply back on, and your dryer is ready for use!
If your laundry dryer is powered by electric, installing it is easier yet. You'll need to connect the vent pipe to both the dryer and the wall. Then, plug the electrical cord into a suitable outlet. Slide the machine into place, then check the levelness of the machine. As with a gas laundry dryer, use a level and adjust the legs.
Once the machine is level, you're ready to dry your laundry!
In order to operate your gas or electric dryer safely, make sure that you clean the dryer vent pipe out with a brush at least every year.
You should also check the connections periodically. That is, check the flexible gas supply line to make sure that both ends are secure. And, check both ends of the vent hose to make sure there are no leaks.
