Cleaner Air & Natural Gas
The natural gas industry also has a keen interest in
environmental matters. We are proud that natural gas can make
important contributions in three areas of concern - ozone and urban
smog,acid rain and global warming. Government, business, academia
and the media recognize that the increased use of natural gas is an
attractive option for solving these problems.
As a concerned citizen, you may want to add .contributing to
cleaner air" as another benefit of buying a gas appliance. Gas is
America's cleanest fuel, and the natural gas industry looks forward
to working with you to solve pollution problems and to protect our
precious environment.
We hope this Buyer's Guide for gas dryers
helps you with your selection. Enjoy your purchase.
Know Before You Buy
Are you looking at a new home and deciding on your gas
appliances? Or perhaps you need a replacement dryer for one you
have had for years. You may decide to change your energy source,
from electric to gas. Keep in mind which fuel is presently being
used in the home for the range, furnace and water heater. You are
making an investment decision in your future. Today, there is a
whole new generation of high performance gas dryers. New
technological advances help make housekeeping and doing the laundry
easier and faster to fit in with busy schedules and lifestyles.
You're shopping for the best buy...a quality appliance that will
perform for many years. You've realized that it makes good sense to
buy today's more energy efficient and economical gas dryer. But
which of the many available brands and models is the right one for
your family ... which best fits your needs? That's the key to
selecting the right appliance...
Picking the Right Appliance
Before making a choice, use the handy checklist to itemize your needs in a dryer. Refer
to it as you comparison shop. Before you buy, consider:
Cost
Natural gas is less expensive than electricity.
Depending on where you live, gas dryers cost from two-thirds to
half as much to operate as electric models. In fact,a gas dryer can
save you more than $500 over a 13-year lifetime.The higher purchase
price and installation costs for gas dryers can often be recovered
quickly through these lower operating costs.
A dryer has three
major cost components:
1. Initial Purchase Cost: the price paid to buy and
install the dryer.
2. Energy Cost: the price paid for energy to operate the dryer.
3. Service Cost: the price paid for maintenance and repair of the
product throughout its life.
Initial purchase price is an important
consideration. However, don't discount energy and service costs
because the purchase price may be lower. A gas dryer lasts a long
time ... about 13 years. Operating costs,warranty coverage and
availability of parts and service at competitive prices are as
important to consider as the purchase price.
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Energy Consumption/Efficiency
Today's gas dryers use less energy than older
models. No pilot lights are required because they light
automatically. Because of this feature,consumers can save over half
of their operating costs by replacing their old gas dryer with a
new one and help conserve America's energy.
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Control Systems
Dryers offer a variety of control systems designed
to handle typical laundry loads and most modern fabrics. Control
designs vary from a single timer dial divided into minute segments,
to solid-state touch controls. Some models also feature an
electronic moisture sensor with multiple cycles designed for a
variety of fabrics and special-purpose drying.
1. Timed-Drying
System- With this system, you estimate the time needed to
dry each load. Then you set the timer control for the selected
minutes. At the end of the selected time,after a brief cool-down
period, the dryer stops.
The timed-drying system requires some user skill to
avoid either over- or under-drying.
2. Automatic-Dry
(Temperature Sensing) System-With this system, you select a
desired dryness setting for each load (on a dial, with push buttons
or solid-state touch controls).As the load dries, a thermostat in
the exhaust measures the air temperature leaving the dryer drum.
The control uses the sensed temperature, along with a pre-set
amount of time, to stop the dryer when the load reaches the
selected dryness level.
This system works well with loads of similar weight
fabric. However, it provides less even drying for mixed loads that
combine both light and heavy weightfabrics. Automatic-dry systems
require less guess work than a timed-dry control and reduce the
possibility of over-drying and energy waste.
3. Automatic-Control (Moisture-Sensing)
System-With this system, you select a desired dryness
setting for each load (on a dial, with push buttons, or with
solid-state touch controls). As load items tumble, they contact
electronic sensors in the drum that "feel" the moisture level. As
the load dries, the sensors continuously report to the control. The
dryer stops automatically when the load reaches the selected
dryness level.
This moisture-sensing control system gives the most
accurate drying results. The control system works best when fabrics
in a load are of a similar weight.Mixed-weight fabric loads can
sometimes "fool" the sensor. For example, if nylon items are dried
with towels, sensors may "feel"the moisture level of the nylon
which dries rapidly ... leaving wet towels when the cycle ends. If
towels touch the sensor, nylons maybe over-dried and wrinkled by
the time the towels are dry.
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Personal Needs
Select the best control system for your laundry
loads. If the family's clothing and household items are mainly
permanent press, knits and synthetics (with only a few loads of 100
percent cotton), consider an automatic-dry or automatic control
system. They have more flexibility for drying modern fabrics. Tests
show that they can reduce drying energy consumption by 10 to 15
percent by providing accurate, timed-drying cycles.
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Airflow Pattern
Different manufacturers of dryers offer a variety
of airflow patterns. However, you can add to your operating cost
savings by choosing one where clothes tumble into a diagonal
airflow. It provides fast, thorough drying at low temperatures.
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Temperature Controls
Today's dryers offer a variety of temperature
controls. Some models have only one heat setting, plus a no-heat
selection (air). Other models have three or four heat settings
(plus air), designed for specific fabrics. Your fabric loads will
determine the drying temperature needed.
For example, if you dry only towels and jeans,a
single temperature dryer will meet your needs. But, if you also
have loads of 100- percent cotton, permanent press, polyester
knits, nylons and other modern fabrics, consider buying a dryer
with at least two heat settings, and possibly more.
Temperature settings generally available on modern
dryers include:
- High
(heavy, regular, normal,cottons)- Recommended for towels,
jeans and other heavy cotton fabrics.
- Medium
(permanent press)- Recommended for durable or permanent
press and woven synthetic fabrics.
- Low (knits,
gentle,delicate)- Recommended for knitted synthetic sheer
fabrics.
- Extra Low
(delicate)-Recommended for sheer synthetics and
heat-sensitive fabrics.
- Air
Fluff- Recommended for heat sensitive fabrics, pillows,
draperies, rugs or bedspreads that have not been
laundered.
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Size
Gas dryers can range in size from 24" to 29" wide.
They generally offer three drum capacities:
- Compact - These units are styled to fit in small areas and can
be purchased with companion washers. They generally dry less than
normal sized loads. These units are stackable and ideal for
multi-family-size units. The stacked unit requires only about five
square feet of floor space.
- Regular / Large - Drum volumes are generally under six cubic
feet, a capacity that matches standard or large size washers. These
dryers are designed to handle average loads,but are generally less
efficient than larger volume dryers in handling extra large loads
and bulky household items. Average energy input ranges from about
18,000 to 25,000 Btu per hour.Full sized washer and dryer stock
units are also available.
- Extra Large - Drum volumes are generally over six cubic feet,
which matches the capacity of extra large-size washers. These
dryers are designed to handle average to large size loads and bulky
household items. Average energy input ranges from about 18,000 to
30,000 Btus per hour.
Select the dryer size that best meets your family's
needs. A dryer that is too small will be slow and inefficient. One
that is greatly over-sized may not tumble small loads properly. The
wrong choice can result in excessive wrinkling, poor operation of
moisture sensors and wasted energy.
Additionally, be sure your dryer is vented properly. Use the
straightest, shortest duct for venting. Rigid,metal ducts trap the
least amount of lint. Check the outside vent hood monthly to make
sure the vent lid opens and doses freely. A vent lid that remains
open allows heated air to escape and cold drafts to enter the
house.
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Convenience Features
There are many dryer features that can help make
the laundry process less time-consuming and more convenient. Some
features are standard and are included on most dryers. Others may
be available only on specific models (or brands) of dryers. To help
you evaluate features in terms of your needs, a brief description
of each is outlined here. These features are available on most gas
dryers.
Standard and Special Features
- Automatic
Cool Down-This is a five- to ten minute period at the end of
each cycle. It tumbles the load at room -temperature air. It's used
for cooling fabrics and reducing wrinkling of no-iron
fabrics.
- Special
Controls- Some brands now feature control graphics and back
panel labels with technical service information in Spanish. There
are also custom designs for visually impaired customers that
feature large-size graphics and enlarged controls, knobs and push
buttons for easy use. Braille or audio instruction kits are also
available. Be sure to ask your dealer.
- Door
Opening - Dryer doors open to the left, to the right or
down. It is easier to transfer the clothes from the washer to the
dryer if the washer is installed to the right of the dryer, the
dryer door opens to the left, and vice versa. Some dryer doors open
a full 1801, so the washer can be installed on either side of the
dryer. This type of door is accessible for the disabled. To save
extra back bending,consider installing the dryer on a 12-inch-high
elevated platform.You can use the space beneath as a storage
area.
- Drying
Rack - This fits into the drum to provide flat drying (no
tumbling) for special items. Among its uses are for drying tennis
shoes or for flat drying of woolens, stuffed toys or small items
that should not be tumbled.
- End-of-Cycle Signal -This is a bell,
buzzer or electronic beep that signals the end of a drying cycle.
It alerts user to remove load as soon as dryer stops.Doing so helps
avoid wrinkles caused by leaving the load in a warm
dryer.
- Freshening
or De-Wrinkling - This is a short cycle with heat plus cool
down. You can use it to freshen and restore items that are
clean,but wrinkled or musty from storage.
- Lights - Some model shave lights on the
console and in the dryer drum when door is opened. A top light
allows you to see the controls more easily. A drum light provides
better visibility when loading and unloading.
- Lint
Filter - This is a screen to catch lint during the drying
cycle. It may be located on top of the dryer, in the door well or
in the back wall, inside the dryer drum. Look for a design that is
easy to remove, clean and replace.
- Option for
Wrinkle Prevention - Some dryers offer an option that will
keep the dryer tumbling without heat for a specified time after the
permanent press cycle is over. This feature is designed to prevent
wrinkling when you can't remove the clothes from the dryer
immediately after the cycle is finished.
- User
Instructions -These give you product information on labels,
console or cabinet instructions and/or in booklets. Some models
have holders for the literature package. These instructions give
you information on installation, use, care, safety, service and how
to contact the manufacturer.
There are other, less visible characteristics that
you may want to check before you make your final purchase decision
for a new gas dryer. Consider these factors:
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Quality
How does the visible quality measure up? Do parts
fit and match well? Does the door close securely? Are knobs, dials
and push buttons easy to grip, turn or set? Are they arranged in a
logical manner? Does the dryer have good instructions? What is the
manufacturer's reputation for quality?Read the label attached to
the dryer (or ask for specification sheets) to learn about
construction, materials and finishes. These items can be important
factors over the lifetime of a dryer. Set standards for the quality
level you need and expect, and include it in your shopping
list.
Be sure to check
for:
- Cabinet protection against rust
- Durability of dryer top
- Drum finish (is it under
warranty?)
- Belt design
- Leveling legs with rust
protection
- Seals around the dryer drum
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Warranty and Service
Read the warranty before you buy. How does it
compare with other brands you've looked at.Who will service the
dryer? Are authorized factory service and parts available in your
area? Ask questions and get answers ...before you need them.
In general, it is a good idea to buy from a local
dealer who has a reputation for prompt and dependable service.
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Manufacturer's Customer Assistance Program
As you shop, ask about each manufacturer's or
retailer's customer assistance programs. Some manufacturers have
factory-sponsored programs; others work only through local dealers.
Some types of customer assistance include:
- Local or regional factory representatives who can provide
assistance if there is a problem with a product.
- Name and address of a factory person in charge of consumer
affairs-to whom you can write and get an answer.
- Toll-free telephone assistance from trained consultants who
answer questions about use and care; provide names of authorized
local service companies; and provide parts and service assistance
for do-it-your selfers.
These types of consumer services can be important
if you move and need to find a qualified dealer, installer or
service company in your new location.
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Gas Dryer Buying Guide:
Energy and Money
Saving Tips:
- Separate light weight from heavyweight fabrics for faster, more
even drying.
- Don't overload the dryer. The load must tumble freely for
fastest, most wrinkle-free drying. Generally, a washer load is a
dryer load.
- When possible, dry full loads. Drying many small loads wastes
energy.
- If drying only one or two items, add several compatible items
to ensure proper tumbling and faster drying.
- Wash and dry several loads consecutively. A warm dryer shortens
drying time.
- Don't over-dry. This causes increased wear on the clothes. Use
the automatic cycle (if your dryer has one). Remove the load when
the dryer stops.
- Don't add wet items to a partially dried load.
- Don't open the dryer door unnecessarily. Warm air escapes from
dryer into the room.
- Clean the lint screen after each load. Even a light build-up of
lint on the screen can lengthen drying time. Also, users should
periodically check for lint accumulation around the gas burner (as
instructed in the owner's manual).
- Place the dryer in a warm area. Drying time is longer in
unheated garages or utility rooms.
- Make sure the dryer is exhausted properly to the outside
according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Clean exhaust duct
and check the vent lid monthly to make sure it opens and closes
freely.
- Make certain that the dryer is level. Otherwise, the drum
rotation could cause the dryer to move and put stress on gas
connections.
Finally ... you have all the information. You've
shopped and completed your checklist.The gas dryer that best meets
your needs has been selected.
Now, have it installed properly. Be sure to follow
the manufacturer's instructions and local codes.
Keep your sales slip,your warranty and complete
model and serial numbers together in a safe place, for future
reference and service needs.
Read your "Use and Care Guide." Start out right by
using your new gas dryer in the most efficient way.
Enjoy your gas dryer for many years to come!
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A.G.A Design Certification Seals
When shopping for your new gas dryer, always be
sure the models you are considering are Design Certified by the
American Gas Association (in the United States), Canadian Gas
Association (in Canada) or another nationally recognized
laboratory. In 1993, the American Gas Association and Canadian Gas
Association formed a joint venture called International Approval
Services" as a means of helping to ensure that the design of gas
appliances sold in these two countries meet appropriate national
standards.
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Shopping
Checklist
|
|
Gas Dryer Design, Quality, and Feature
Characteristic |
Brand 1 |
Brand 2 |
Brand 3 |
|
1 |
Model Number |
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cabinet Size (HxWxD) |
|
|
|
| 3 |
Is there a rust protection cabinet? |
|
|
|
| 4 |
Btu/hr Input |
|
|
|
| 5 |
Drum Size (Compact, Regular/Large, Extra
Large)
|
|
|
|
| 6 |
What is drum Finish? |
|
|
|
| 7 |
Does drum finish carry warranty against
corrosion? |
|
|
|
| 8 |
Temperature settings (number) |
|
|
|
| 9 |
Dry control (timed auto temp., auto moisture) |
|
|
|
| 10 |
Lint filter (top, door, & drum) |
|
|
|
| 11 |
Cool Down |
|
|
|
| 12 |
End-of-Cycle Signal |
|
|
|
| 13 |
User Instructions |
|
|
|
| 14 |
Drying Rack |
|
|
|
| 15 |
Wrinkle Prevention |
|
|
|
| 16 |
Air Fluff Cycle |
|
|
|
| 17 |
Light: Top Drum |
|
|
|
| 18 |
Can dryer be vented from side, back or bottom? |
|
|
|
| 19 |
How long is the warranty? (full or limited
years) |
|
|
|
| 20 |
Does the warranty transfer with you if you
move? |
|
|
|
| 21 |
A.G.A. Blue Star seal |
|
|
|
| 22 |
Visible quality |
|
|
|
| 23 |
Price |
|
|
|
| 24 |
Special Customer Services |
|
|
|
| 25 |
Name of Dealer |
|
|
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