Installing a new gas dryer requires the right size gas line. A standard gas line diameter is 3/4 inches. However, standard sizes are not recommended for all types of dryers. The wrong size line can cause problems with installation, airflow, and heat distribution.
Make sure to get the correct size line for your dryer. What size should you use?
What size gas line do I need for my dryer?
For connecting the dryer to the gas supply, it is recommended that you use a 1/8-inch NPT gas line. Use copper or aluminum pipe that is at least 3/8″. In most cases, dryers require a gas line of 10 to 20 feet in length. 3/8″ flexible gas line tubing can also be used in gas dryers for long term use.
The size that you need for a gas line depends on a few factors, including the type of dryer you have and the number of clothes it can dry. Gas lines are usually larger for drum dryers or high-efficiency tumble dryers because these machines require more fuel to run efficiently.
Standard residential dryers, on the other hand, will only require a smaller 1.8”-inch line. If your home does not have an existing gas line leading directly to your appliances, then you will have to install one first.
In addition to this, it is advisable to install a refrigerant gas line that adds insulation between the dryer and the hose. In the event you experience intermittent dryer blockages, this will help prevent excessive build-up of heat and slow down or stop leaks.
Are all dryer gas lines the same size?
Several different types of dryers use different-sized gas lines. In general, the standard size of dryer gas lines is 3/8″, although some high-efficiency dryers may require a line of 1.8″ inches, and drum machines may require a line of 2.1″ inches.
In general, dryer gas lines come in a variety of shapes and sizes and depending on their manufacturer, model number, or other specifications, the size may vary.
A larger line might be necessary if your house is older or has high ceilings. Furthermore, if you have a heavy-duty or energy-efficient dryer, then the line will probably be larger to cope with the increased demand.
What size flex line for gas dryer?
A flex line is a type of gas line that can be easily adapted to fit most standard appliances. For gas dryers, we recommend using a 3/8″ Flex line Connector.
Larger sizes are available if you have heavier loads or need extra flexibility, but be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before using them.
Furthermore, you can also use flexible insulated flex pipes for heat-pipe dryers in the future when these machines become more popular. When choosing the proper size flex line for your gas dryer, you must take into account the maximum load and weight of your clothes.
Most gas dryers come with a standard flex line that ranges from 1.4 to 3.8 inches in diameter.
What kind of line do you use to connect a gas dryer?
Your options include using an extension cord or investing in a gas dryer with its built-in line. The advantage of using the latter is that it eliminates the risk of fire and other accidents caused by cords accidentally getting tangled. Below are some common and safe gas lines to use in dryers.
Flexible gas line:
You can use a flexible gas line in the dryer. It is important to make sure the connector is 3/8″ in diameter since most gas dryers require lines that are between 1.4 and 3.8 inches in diameter.
If you would like to allow your clothes to move around freely and not get tangled up, you should install a hose reel or an extension cord winder near your clothes dryer, so that you can easily unwind the cord when you’re done drying them.
Insulated gas line:
You can also use an insulated gas line in a dryer. However, it requires a larger diameter than the standard size of the flex line (typically between 1.8 and 3.2 inches in diameter).
Install an extension cord winder near your clothes dryer to ensure that your clothes move freely and do not get tangled up with the extension cord.
Copper gas line:
The copper gas line is an excellent choice for heated dryers. Despite its high cost, the copper gas line is also the best option in terms of performance. It is harder for copper gas lines to kink than other types of pipes, and they emit less heat than other types of pipes.
Leakless gas line:
It is recommended that you use a leakless gas line if you want the safest possible option. It is coated with a special coating that prevents leaks from occurring. Unfortunately, this type of line is also the most expensive out of all of them.
Stainless steel gas line:
For heated dryers, stainless steel gas lines are also a safe and reliable option. I like the fact that it is less expensive than copper, and it does not emit heat.
It is important to keep in mind that stainless steel lines can rust over time, so you may want to get a lifetime warranty on the installation.
Can you oversize a gas pipe for the dryer?
In the case of a gas dryer, you can oversize the gas pipe by up to 2 inches. As a result, the heat will be distributed evenly and the clothes will be dry in no time. It is possible for oversizing to lead to a rupture and detonation, which could cause serious damage or even demise.
Therefore, if you intend to do this yourself, make sure that you understand all of the risks involved and make sure that you have all of the necessary safety equipment at your disposal.
In addition, oversizing your home can cause the inert gasses in your home to become trapped, resulting in a decrease in indoor air quality. It is also important to make sure that the pipe is not oversized if you can avoid it because it will increase the installation costs as well.
How to measure gas line size for dryer?
It is crucial to use the right size gas line so that heat can be evenly distributed and clothes will dry quickly. Here are a few steps you need to follow to ensure you get the right size.
Things you will need:
For measuring the gas line size for the dryer, you will need some basic equipment.
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Gas valve (if applicable)
- Gas meter
- Pencil.
Disconnect the gas line from the dryer:
First of all, you will have to disconnect the gas line from the dryer. Once you have measured the distance from one end of the pipe to the other using a measuring tape, you can proceed. This will allow you to estimate the size of the fitting that you will need.
Measure the inside diameter of the gas line:
The next thing you need to do is measure the inside diameter of the gas line. Once you determine the size of the fitting you need, you can proceed with the installation. The inside diameter of your gas line maybe 0.990 inches and the outside diameter maybe 1 inch.
Therefore, if you need a larger fitting, which has an outside diameter of 1.09 inches, the outside diameter should be 1.090 inches.
Compare this measurement with the gas cylinder size:
Check the size of your fitting against the size listed on the label of your gas cylinder after you have determined its size. You will need to make a slight adjustment if they are not exactly matching to ensure a snug fit.
Additional tips:
Be sure to turn off the gas valve before taking any measurements if you are using one. Different brands of cylinders have different size markings. You should not use a level to measure; this could cause the pipe to buckle. Make precise marks on the pipe with a pencil.
Final Thoughts
Briefly, you will need a gas line with an inner diameter of 1/8″ or 3/8″. Copper stainless steel or flexible gas lines are preferred for dryers. 3.8″ copper fittings with an O-ring seal should also be used for flexible pipes. However, for steel fittings, 3/4″ copper fittings should be used.