How Much Does a Dryer Cost to Operate?
The cost of operating a dryer depends on such factors as its capacity, technology and the way it's used. Energy costs in your part of the country are another variable. But in broad terms, you can expect to pay between 44 cents and $1.32 per load as of January 2011. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wattage
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The wattage of an appliance is the quantity of power it uses, and the higher the wattage the more it costs to run. A typical electrical dryer uses about 4.4 kilowatts in one hour. Energy Star-rated appliances may have lower wattage and running costs.
Usage
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According to the Energy Star website, the average American family washes about 400 loads of washing every year. Hanging all that washing outside to dry would cost you nothing, but drying it all in typical dryer in Hawaii, the most expensive place to buy electricity, cost almost $450 based on the average price of electricity in October 2010.
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Cost-Reducing Tips
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To reduce costs, do not overload or underload the dryer. Both waste power and increase costs. Use the auto-dry setting if there is one; this stops the dryer when the clothing is dry, thus saving money and protecting your clothing from damage. Dry several loads in quick succession so the dryer stays hot for the next load.
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References
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