How long does it take to use one unit of gas?

Kilowatt-hour (kWh) is the unit of energy most commonly used for recording energy consumption.

The gas meter installed at your property measures your gas usage in cubic metres or cubic feet, depending on the meter. In order to convert this measurement into kWh, a conversion factor is applied. 

The conversion factor is a measurement of the heat content of the volume of gas measured. It can vary depending on the source of the gas and the location. These variations are normally small and the conversion factor used for calculating your bill will be published on the bill.

Examples for energy use by gas appliances: 

• The small burner on your gas cooker (typically 1.1 to 1.3 kW output) will use approx. 1kWh to 1.5 kWh in one hour. 
• A 2kW gas fire will use approx. 2kWh in one hour when operating at maximum output. 
• It would take approx. 9.2 kWh of gas to heat a 120 litre hot water tank by 60 degrees Celsius (based on approx. 90% boiler efficiency). 

These figures give an average usage guide. Actual usage will depend on the age and efficiency of appliances.