Seasonal changes 

Most households see a change in their gas bills across the seasons, with their winter bill typically being the highest. In winter, we tend to use more hot water by taking longer, hotter showers and gas heating more often and for longer periods to beat the cold. 

If you want to check if your bill is higher than normal, you can compare the gas usage shown on your Kleenheat bill to your gas usage in the same period the year before. You can do this by looking at the graph on the first page of your bill or by viewing your historical gas usage and bills in My Account. 

Your hot water system 

Hot water systems are among the biggest energy consumers in the home and can significantly impact your gas bill.  

During cooler months, your hot water system must work harder to warm water to the required temperature. 

Instantaneous systems heat water when you need it, while storage systems keep a tank full of water at a set temperature. As a result, storage systems tend to use more energy than instantaneous systems. 

The temperature settings on your hot water systems can also affect your gas usage. The temperature on instantaneous hot water systems should be set to no more than 50 degrees Celsius, while the temperature on your storage hot water system should be set at 60 degrees Celsius.  

General household appliances 

Gas appliances like hot water systems, stoves, heaters, and fireplaces vary in their gas consumption. This consumption depends on factors like the age of the appliance, its energy rating, how it has been maintained, and how frequently it’s used.  

Always follow the recommended service schedule for your gas appliances. If you think one of your gas appliances is not working properly or is due for service, contact a gas fitter.  

Newer appliances will generally be more efficient and use less gas than older appliance models. Visit the Australian Government’s Energy Rating website to better understand the energy ratings of your gas appliances and how much they may be costing you to run.  

We have more information about the typical running costs of gas appliances and how to reduce energy costs here. 

If you’re worried about your ability to pay your gas bill, or your bill has significantly increased without any change to your situation, please call 13 21 80 to find out how we can assist you.