APPLIANCE COST GUIDE

How much does a clothes dryer cost to run?

Electric dryers have a high heating load, though the heating element cycles while the drum and fan continue.

Editable estimate

Calculate running cost

Results update as you type.

Estimated monthly cost30-day month
Daily
Annual
Daily energy
Annual energy

kW × effective runtime × rate. Effective runtime = hours/day × duty cycle.

Ways to lower this cost

See all savings tips →

RATE COMPARISON

How your rate changes the cost

Same appliance inputs, using May 2026 EIA residential averages.

Data updatedEIA residential prices · May 2026View Table 5.6.A

Make the estimate more accurate

  • Three one-hour loads a week is about 0.43 hours/day.
  • Clean the lint screen and vent path.
  • Moisture-sensor cycles may stop earlier than timed cycles.

Presets are estimates. Use your model label, an EnergyGuide figure or a safe meter reading when available.