The average gas usage in UK households varies depending on several factors, including the size of the household, the number of occupants, the type of heating system, and the climate. However, the average household in the UK uses around 12,000 kWh of gas per year. This is equivalent to about 30 therms per day.
This can vary based on factors such as the size of the home, the number of occupants, climate conditions, and energy-efficient behaviours. On average:
Gas Consumption: A typical UK household consumes around 12,000–17,000 kWh of gas per year.
Electricity Consumption: The average electricity usage (consumption) for a UK household is approximately 3,100 kWh per year.
Water Consumption: The average water consumption for a UK household is around 150 litres per person per day.
It’s important to note that these figures are approximate averages and can vary widely. Monitoring your own usage and making energy-efficient choices can help you manage and lower your consumption.
The size of the household: Larger households tend to use more gas than smaller households. This is because they have more space to heat and more people to bathe and shower.
The number of occupants: The more people living in a household, the more gas is used. This is because people use gas for cooking, heating, and hot water.
The type of system: central heating is the most common type of system in the UK. They use gas appliances more than other types of systems, such as electric boilers or heat pumps.
The climate: Households in colder climates tend to use a lot of gas than households in warmer climates. This is because they need to use more to heat their homes.
Home Size and Layout: Larger homes generally require more energy to heat and cool, while the layout can affect how well the heat or cool air circulates.
Insulation: Proper insulation keeps your home’s temperature stable, reducing heat loss.
Appliances and Electronics: Energy-efficient appliances and electronics consume less power, contributing to lower energy bills.
Heating and Cooling Systems: The type and efficiency of your systems impact energy consumption.
Usage Patterns: How often and when you use energy-intensive appliances like washing machines, dryers, and ovens can influence your energy bill.
Thermostat Settings: Setting your thermostat too high or low can significantly impact your bills.
Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures lead to increased energy use.
Energy-Efficiency Practices: Simple habits like turning off lights, unplugging devices, and using natural light can reduce energy consumption.
Home Maintenance: Regular maintenance of appliances and systems ensures they operate efficiently.
Renewable Energy Sources: Using solar panels or wind turbines can decrease reliance on conventional energy sources.
Time of Use: Energy costs may vary during peak and off-peak hours.
Understanding these factors can help you manage and reduce your energy usage effectively.
Insulate your home: It can reduce your average energy usage a lot. Insulation helps to keep heat in your home, so you don’t have to use as much gas to heat it. ( reduce both gas and electricity bills)
Seal up any air leaks: Air leaks can let heat escape from your home, so it’s important to seal them up.
Use efficient appliances: Efficient appliances use less gas, so they can help you save money on your energy bills.
Turn off lights and appliances when you’re not using them: Even small appliances can use a lot of gas if they’re left on all the time.
Take shorter showers: Showers are a major source of gas usage in households. Taking shorter showers can help you save a lot of gas.
Use a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you save gas by automatically adjusting the temperature of your home when you’re asleep or away.
It’s a good practice to review your energy supplier and gas supplier annually to ensure that you’re paying for what you actually use. Regularly comparing different energy plans and suppliers can help you find the most cost-effective options and avoid overpaying for your energy consumption.
Install a smart meter. You can track your average gas and electricity usage better than ever.