Natural Gas Dryer Basics
For additional savings and energy conservation, today's natural gas dryers use electronic ignition systems (instead of a continuously burning pilot light).
Natural gas clothes dryers range in size from 24 inches to 29 inches and generally come in three different drum sizes: compact, regular/large and extra large. Most clothes dryers have from three to six different drying cycles for different types of fabrics and the desired dryness. For example, a "permanent press" cycle uses cool air during the last period of drying so clothes will wrinkle less. Some dryers also offer a feature that continues to tumble the clothes periodically to keep wrinkles from setting in. An adjustable end-of-cycle signal is available on most dryers. A "delicate" cycle uses lower temperatures for delicate fabrics, while the "air fluff" cycle uses no warm air at all.
Venting/Exhausting Natural gas dryers are required to be vented/exhausted to the outdoors. Clothes dryers should never be exhausted into the home because humid air could cause condensation that might damage the structure. The technician who installs your natural gas dryer should use the straightest, shortest duct pipe for venting. Rigid, metal duct piping traps the least amount of lint and lets the air flow freely.
Consumers should check the outside exhaust cover monthly to make sure the exhaust lid opens and closes properly. An exhaust lid that remains open allows heated air to escape and cold drafts to enter the home.
Lint filters Select a dryer with a lint filter that is easily reached, as they should be cleaned after every load of laundry. Even a light buildup of lint on the filter can lengthen drying time by restricting the flow of wet air to the outdoors.
Leveling A dryer must be level to prevent the rotating drum form causing damage. It's a good idea to select a unit with leveling legs that have rust protection and a locking mechanism to hold them at the correct height.
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