Natural gas accounts for over a fifth of Australia’s domestic energy. Gas is a cost effective resource, so not only is it great for the hip-pocket, but it’s also arguably better for the environment than electricity production. While gas may be an efficient resource it always pays to be mindful of usage and find new ways to save gas, and in the long run, save money too.
According to Energy Safe Victoria, our household appliances “can account for up to 30 per cent” of our total home energy consumption. If you have any older and potentially energy-hungry appliances, you may want to consider upgrading and replacing them over time with newer, more energy-efficient alternatives. To get a better understanding of the energy efficiency, a good first point of call is to read the appliance energy rating label on the product (or detailed online) when you’re weighing up your options.
Three tips for saving gas
- The oven: If you’re using a gas oven or stovetop, try to keep preheating and cooking time to a minimum. Avoid opening the oven door too many times as this releases much of the ovens heat.
- The hob (i.e. stovetop burners): Putting lids on your pots and pans saves energy as less heat is wasted, it can also speed up the cooking process.
- Heating: You may want to consider ‘zoning’ your gas heating throughout your home so you have the flexibility to only use what is required.
There are many ways to save gas and save on your next gas bill. For more ideas read our full list of gas saving tips.
Types of gas
There are a few different types of gas available in Australia, including natural gas, liquefied natural gas and coal seam gas. Gas supply is classified as either conventional or unconventional. While the gas itself remains the same, the sourcing process and reservoir structure itself differ.
- Conventional gas extraction is a relatively straightforward process, obtained from traditional drilling methods.
- Unconventional gas tends to be that which is more difficult to extract, and in turn, requires more specialist equipment and methods. Coal seam gas and shale gas are both types of unconventional gas.
Compare different energy suppliers (including gas) at comparethemarket.com.au.