Step-by-Step Guide – How to Measure for a New Dryer

When you want a new dryer, knowing what size to look for is essential so you can find something that will fit and avoid the annoying process of having to return a massive appliance. The easiest way to do this is to measure your current dryer and the space you plan to keep it.

Here, we’re going to provide all the information you need to learn how to measure a dryer accurately.

Browse the full selection of new dryers  at Coast Appliances today.

In this article, we’ll cover:

  • What You Need to Measure a Dryer
  • How to Measure for a New Dryer
  • How to Choose the Right Dryer for You
  • FAQs About Dryer Measurement

What You Need to Measure a Dryer


Measuring a dryer machine is simple. You can get it done with just a tape measure, but if you want to be thorough, this list of items has you covered:

  • Tape measure
  • Flashlight
  • Pencil and paper for writing down measurements

How Do You Measure for a New Dryer?


When you measure for a new dryer, you want to split the process into 2 steps. First, you’re going to figure out how you want the dryer set up in your space. Once that’s established, you can then measure the space so you know the maximum dimensions you can look at in any dryer.

1. Determine your ideal setup


There are a lot of ways to configure laundry appliances. You can use them the traditional way and place them side-by-side. If you do this, you need to be sure that you consider which way the doors will open. You can also stack them, in which case you’ll need a lot more free vertical space. Decide which is your preference or need before you start measuring.

2. Take basic measurements


To measure the space for your dryer, we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to think about the full laundry setup and space you’re working with. Use your tape measure to accurately determine where the dryer will live in your home. Measuring wall-to-wall distances lets, you know instantly while shopping if an appliance you’re considering will fit.

Remember, when you measure wall distances, you’re figuring out how much available space exists across the width of the area, the depth of the space, and the height available for your appliances, so measure for the maximum capacity of each of these.

3. Measure the door opening space


As you’re measuring, remember that dryers have doors, and those doors need enough space to open. When looking at the dimensions of a dryer, you must account for the space necessary for the dryer door to fully open.

Measuring the space for the door is simple. As you shop, the trick is just finding the door dimensions and adding them to the dryer's depth to ensure you have enough room.

4. Check for exhaust/external vent


Most dryers use an exhaust system to vent hot, humid air while the appliance is running. Be sure that you have enough space for hoses and vents when you factor in your dryer dimensions.

In general, you need at least 4” of extra room behind the dryer to account for the venting. Note that this is 4” in addition to whatever depth measurement is provided for the dryer. Some appliance specifications will include a dryer vent size to help. Ideally, these dimensions will show the dryer vent height from floor to the access point.

Keep in mind that some dryers don’t need to be vented. Condenser and heat-pump dryers, for example, eliminate the need for any venting system, so they require less space in the back and only need to accommodate electric plugs.

5. Shop for a dryer with dryer dimensions that will fit your space


Once you measure the available space you have for a dryer, shopping is that much easier. Every dryer comes with dimension specifications, so you’ll be able to determine if a dryer will fit in your space quickly.

Remember to give yourself at least 1” on each side of the dryer for wiggle room, and about an inch in between the washer and dryer to prevent loud vibration. And don’t forget that you need at least 4” in the back for the plug and any venting as well as enough vertical space to use the dryer.

Not sure what kind of dryer you want? Check out our blog: Types of Dryers

6. Don’t forget to measure the delivery path


Finally, when learning how to measure a dryer, remember that you need to be able to get your new appliance to its existing home. It has to fit through doors, down hallways, and around corners. Make sure that all the openings on its delivery path are large enough, and if there are any tight corners, they must be wide enough for your new dryer to make the turn.

To check corners, you might have to do a little math. Plug the width and depth of the dryer into this calculator, and it will tell you how wide the space needs to be in any tight corner.

How to Choose the Right Dryer for You

 

To find the right dryer, look for the features you want in the price range that you like. Then, make sure it fits the space you have.

For more on choosing which dryer is right for you and your needs, check out: A Complete Guide on How to Choose a Dryer

 

If you’re ready to find the perfect dryer, then check out the selection of dryers at Coast. We have everything you could want in a dryer. We’ll even deliver and haul away your old appliance!

FAQs About Dryer Measurement

How do I know what size my dryer is?

You can look up your current dryer’s dimensions on the manufacturer’s website. You can also measure the dryer width, height, and depth with a tape measure.

What is the standard size of a dryer?

A dryer’s standard size is usually as follows:

  • Width: 27-28” (68.5-71.1 cm)
  • Height: Can vary, but generally at least 39” (99 cm)
  • Depth: 30-35” (76.2-88.9 cm)

How do you measure an electric dryer?

Measure from the wall to the front of the dryer to get the depth. Measure from one side to the other to get the width. Measure from the ground to the top to get the height – keep in mind that the top of the dryer may not be the total height; be sure to include the height of the control panel at the back. And remember to note a second measurement with the open door when figuring out how much depth-room you need.

How do I know what size my washer and dryer are?

The easiest way to figure out the size of your current washer and dryer is by measuring it yourself or looking up the washer and dryer standard size via the manufacturer’s website. You’ll find that relying on standard dryer dimensions alone is not enough. You need specific dryer dimensions inches to be completely accurate.

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