A Dryer That Plays Nicely
 The big thing to look for in a new dryer is whether it has a moisture-sensing feature. A moisture sensor allows the dryer to automatically turn itself off when the clothes reach a specified level of dryness.
Next-best would be a dryer with an automatic cut-off that turns itself off by sensing the temperature of the air being exhausted. A dryer that only lets you set a timer will cost you 10-15 % more in energy usage than the ones with automatic cut-offs.
Buy a good enough new dryer and your energy utility might provide you with a rebate. Call 'em up and ask them about their dryer rebates.
UPDATE. A dryer manufacturer called Thor Appliance has developed an unusual and apparently highly energy-efficient dryer technology. They manufacture a combination washer dryer machine with a single drum. After clothes are washed, and spun very fast to extract excess water, the machine automatically switches itself from washer to dryer mode. But instead of forcing hot air into the drum, the Thor machine circulates unheated air through the contents of the drum which then flows into a chamber that condenses the moisture from the air and allows the condensation to drain away. This process takes a little longer than conventional hot-air dryers, but is highly energy efficient, is better suited for indoor use because no vent is required, doesn't require special (220) power connection for appliances, takes less space, and doesn't need to have someone move clothes from washer to dryer.
Thor also maintains a web page linking to local utility companies in (at most recent count) 18 different states which provide appliance rebates for those who purchase qualifying Energy Star rated appliances.
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