Gas Cost Calculator

Estimate how much your gas appliances cost to run. Compare heating costs and track energy usage instantly.

Cost Breakdown

Current tariff: 7.42p/kWh
Cost Per Minute 0.00p
Cost Per Hour £0.00
Cost Per Day £0.00
Cost Per Week £0.00
Cost Per Month £0.00
Cost Per Year £0.00

Energy Usage

Energy Per Hour 0.00 kWh
Energy Per Day 0.00 kWh
Energy Per Week 0.00 kWh
Energy Per Month 0.00 kWh
Energy Per Year 0.00 kWh

Carbon Footprint

CO₂ Per Day 0.00 kg
CO₂ Per Month 0.00 kg
CO₂ Per Year 0.00 kg

Calculation Flow

1 300 W Watts
2 0.30 kW Kilowatts
3 4 hrs Hours
4 1.20 kWh Daily kWh
5 £0.09/day Daily Cost

Summary

Running a 300W Gas Fire for 4 hours per day at 7.42p/kWh uses 1.20 kWh/day and costs £0.09/day, £0.63/week, £2.73/month, and £32.76/year.

How is Gas Consumption Measured?

Gas consumption is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), the same unit used for electricity. However, your gas meter may display consumption in cubic metres (m³) or cubic feet (ft³). Energy suppliers convert this to kWh using a standard formula that accounts for gas pressure, temperature and calorific value. This calculator works directly in kWh, making it easy to estimate costs without needing to convert meter readings.

How is Gas Cost Calculated?

The formula is the same as for electricity: (Watts ÷ 1,000) × Hours Used × Price per kWh. First, convert the appliance’s power rating from watts to kilowatts by dividing by 1,000. Then multiply by how many hours the appliance runs per day, and finally multiply by your gas price per kWh.

Average UK Gas Prices

As of 2024, the UK gas price cap stands around 7p per kWh for typical dual-fuel customers paying by direct debit, with a daily standing charge of approximately 27-31p. However, individual supplier rates may vary significantly. Check your latest bill or contact your provider for your exact tariff rate.

Gas vs Electric Heating Costs

Gas is typically cheaper per kWh than electricity, but gas appliances are often less efficient. For example:

  • Gas boiler: ~90% efficient (10% of energy lost as exhaust heat)
  • Electric heater: ~100% efficient (all energy converts to heat)
  • Heat pump: ~300% efficient (produces 3 units of heat per 1 unit of electricity)

Despite being cheaper per unit, gas may not always be the most cost-effective option when factoring in efficiency. A heat pump, despite using more expensive electricity, can work out cheaper to run due to its high efficiency.

Understanding Carbon Emissions

Burning natural gas produces carbon dioxide (CO₂). The UK government publishes official carbon emission factors for grid gas, which is approximately 0.18 kg CO₂ per kWh of gas consumed. This calculator uses this figure to estimate the carbon footprint of your gas appliance usage.

Tips to Reduce Gas Usage

  • Service your boiler: An unserviced boiler can waste up to 15% of the gas it consumes
  • Install a smart thermostat: Smart controls can reduce heating bills by 10-15%
  • Insulate your home: Proper loft insulation can save up to £350/year on heating costs
  • Draught-proof windows and doors: Eliminating draughts can save £25-£50/year
  • Lower your thermostat: Reducing the temperature by 1°C can save around 10% on gas bills
  • Use TRVs: Thermostatic radiator valves let you control temperatures per room

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