How many watts does a clothes dryer use?
Updated
Running watts
5,400 W
Starting watts
6,750 W
Energy per day
5.4 kWh
A clothes dryer typically draws about 5,400 watts while running and up to 6,750 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. At about 1 h of use a day, that is roughly 5.4 kWh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a clothes dryer?
Plan for at least 8,100 W: 6,750 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 10,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a clothes dryer? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | No |
| 3,500 W | No |
| 5,000 W | No |
| 7,500 W | Only just (no safety margin) |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a clothes dryer?
Running continuously at 5,400 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 6,750 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 9 min |
| 2,000 Wh | about 19 min |
| 3,600 Wh | about 34 min |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the Generator Size Calculator for Your HomeFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a clothes dryer?
At least 8,100 W: 6,750 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a clothes dryer?
No. It needs about 6,750 W for a second or two when it starts, more than 2,000 W.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a clothes dryer?
No. It needs about 6,750 W for a second or two when it starts, more than 3,500 W.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a clothes dryer?
About 9 min, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 6,750 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.