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What types of dryers are available?
Electric
By far the most common types of dryers are electric. Their sticker price is usually less expensive than those of gas dryers--but in exchange they typically cost more to operate day-to-day depending on electricity rates.
Price: $250-$2,900
Power requirement: 240-volt outlet
Who it's best for: The budget shopper who wants to plug the dryer into an existing laundry area in their home or rental.
Gas
Most gas dryers cost $50 to $100 more than their electronic counterparts. But over time, they are more cost effective to operate. The only hitch is that you need a gas hookup in your laundry area to install the dryer.
Price: $350-$3,300
Power requirement: Gas line
Who it's best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who want to save money over the long haul and can afford to install the necessary gas line
Space-savers
Laundry centers come in gas or electric and are typically integrated stacked units with a top-loading washer on the bottom and front-loading dryer on the top. They are found in many apartments and condos behind a closed closet door. There also are compact electric dryers that have about half the capacity of full-size dryers and can be stacked on top of matching washing machines.
Price: $850-$2,000 for laundry center; $300-$500
Power requirement: 120-volt or 240-volt outlet or gas line
Who it's best for: People with big budgets who do small loads of dishes and have limited cabinet space
