Can A Gas Dryer Run On Propane? (Find Out Now!)

It is commonplace to find either electric dryers or gas dryers in US homes. Both of them have their benefits and drawbacks. Some prefer the efficiency and energy-saving qualities of a gas dryer, and some prefer the cheaper outright cost and safety of an electric dryer.

Let’s say you’ve already decided a gas dryer is the best option for you. Gas dryers are manufactured for natural gas. But you might be curious, can a gas dryer run on propane instead?

The answer is YES, most gas dryers can be converted to run on Liquid Propane (LP) by installing a conversion kit. This involves changing the gas regulator pressure and burner orifice. If your gas dryer doesn’t come with an LP conversion kit, you can purchase one at most home improvement stores. This installation is technical, but can be completed yourself.

A gas dryer is a clothes dryer that is designed to utilize natural gas as its source of energy. The gas is used to heat the clothes. Without gas, a gas dryer will run when plugged into electricity, but will not be able to produce heat.

Gas dryers have many benefits over electric dryers. While they are more expensive to purchase, their energy efficiency over time saves money. It takes less money in gas usage to dry your clothes than money in electricity usage, because it warms your clothes faster. It also requires only 110 volts of electricity to run, whereas electric dryers require 220 volts.

Gas dryers can be fueled by either natural gas or propane. Most gas dryers are designed for natural gas use, but can be converted for propane with the right equipment. The downside of gas dryers is they run a higher risk of fires, explosions, and gas leaks than electric ones.

Before you make any changes, you should read the owner’s manual for your dryer. The manual will indicate if it’s possible or not to use propane for your particular model. But most gas dryer models should be convertible to propane.

Once you verify that this is possible, you will need to purchase a dryer LP conversion kit. You can buy a dryer conversion kit at most home improvement stores, or on Amazon. Kits range in price, from as low as $15 up to $55, depending on your dryer model.

Your conversion kit will come with the necessary components and detailed installation instructions. If you’re not comfortable with appliances, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Defer to a qualified servicer to complete the installation for you. Improperly converting a gas dryer comes with safety hazards, increasing the risk of gas leaks or explosions.

The goal with this conversion is to replace the burner orifice. A natural gas orifice is too big for propane, and thus would let in too much propane. This can cause the flame to grow too large and potentially start a fire.

To find the burner, you’ll need to unscrew and remove the front panel. Once you find the burner, remove the access door. This will reveal the gas control valve. Make sure to turn off the gas. Then unplug the quick connect wire on top of the gas control valve.

Related Questions

What are the best gas dryers?Some of the top brands on the market provide reliable, quality gas dryers. Samsung has a couple of different models, one of which includes a steam and sanitize feature. GE also offers a highly rated gas dryer. Additional quality brands include Whirlpool and Kenmore. 

Why is the gas dryer not heating?

Your gas dryer might not be heating for a number of reasons. There might be a blockage or restricted air flow in the vents. You might also have a blown thermal fuse. There may also be defective gas valve coils.