How to Determine Whether You Have a Gas or Electric Dryer

November 1, 2017 by Kenmore

So that old dryer that came with the house is finally conking out and it’s time to replace it with a new one. You’re all set to order your new Kenmore dryer from Sears or Amazon, but you just realized one very important thing: You don’t know whether your dryer is gas or electric!

Before you buy your new Kenmore dryer, you’ll want to confirm that you’ve selected the correct fuel type. There’s nothing more upsetting than having to send the delivery driver back with your new appliance because it’s the wrong fuel type.

Not sure how to tell whether your dryer is gas or electric? Perhaps these tips will help…

Check the plug: One of the easiest ways to determine whether you have a gas or electric dryer is to look at the plug and outlet. An electric dryer will have a grounded 240v electrical outlet that will look like the one pictured in the graphic above. The plug will be larger than a standard plug and will include either three- or four-prongs. An electric dryer requires higher voltage because it’s using electricity to create the heat and power the drum, control panel and light, hence the larger plug and higher voltage outlet.

A gas dryer, on the other hand, will plug into a standard 110v 3-prong outlet and will also have a connection to a gas valve. The gas connection provides the energy to heat the dryer while the electric connection powers the drum, control panel and light.

One connection or two? Of course, many dryers are placed in tight spaces where you may not be able to see the outlet. Another method for checking whether you have a gas or electric dryer is to pull the machine a few inches from the wall – just enough so that you can shine a flashlight behind it. If you see one cord attached to the dryer, it’s electric. If you see a cord and a thin stainless steel connector, your dryer is gas. (Don’t confuse the dryer’s flexible metal vent tube with the gas connector. The vent tube will be much larger than the gas connector.)

Does your home have gas service? Another quick check is to determine whether your home is equipped with gas service in the first place. If you have an electric range and furnace, you likely have an electric dryer. If you have a gas range and/or furnace, your dryer may be gas as well.

Still not sure? Contact customersupport@kenmore.com for further customer service. 

Kenmore

The Kenmore brand represents 100 years of trusted performance, backed by exclusive features and innovations that no other brand can bring to the table. We’re always evolving to ensure day-to-day tasks are taken care of with faster cooking, better cleaning and more living throughout the home.