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đĽ 1. Cook Smart (and Efficiently)
â Use Lids on Pots and Pans
Putting a lid on your pot traps heat and reduces cooking timeâmeaning less gas used overall.
â Match Burner Size to Pot Size
Using a small pot on a large burner wastes heat and energy. Match your cookware to the burner size for better efficiency.
â Prep Before You Light the Stove
â Use Pressure Cookers or Slow Cookers
Pressure cookers reduce cooking time dramaticallyâsometimes by up to 70%âwhich equals big gas savings. Slow cookers are also energy-efficient and use electricity instead of gas.
đ§ 2. Be Water-Wise with Your Geyser or Water Heater
â Lower the Thermostat
Set your gas water heater to 120°F (49°C)âhot enough for showers and cleaning but not so hot that it wastes gas.
â Insulate the Heater and Pipes
Wrapping your water heater and hot water pipes with insulation helps retain heat longer, so your unit doesnât have to fire up as often.
â Take Shorter Showers
Every minute counts. Cutting your shower time by just 2â3 minutes can save gallons of hot water and significant gas.
đ 3. Insulate Your Home
Gas heaters work harder in drafty homes. Proper insulation helps retain heat longer and reduces the need for reheating.
â Seal Gaps Around Doors and Windows
Use weather stripping, draft stoppers, or caulk to block cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.
â Close Off Unused Rooms
Focus heating efforts only on the rooms you’re using. Closing vents and doors in unused areas can significantly reduce gas usage.
𧤠4. Dress for the Weather
Instead of cranking up the heater, put on warm clothes, socks, and use cozy blankets. Heating the person, not the entire room, is much more efficient!
đ§ź 5. Wash Smarter
â Use Cold or Warm Water for Laundry
â Only Run Full Loads
Whether itâs your dishwasher or washing machine, running full loads reduces the number of cycles you need (and the gas used to heat water).
â˝ 6. Maintain Your Gas Appliances
â Schedule Regular Maintenance
Dirty burners, clogged vents, or worn-out components can force appliances to work harder and use more gas. Clean and service gas stoves, water heaters, and heaters regularly.
â Look for Energy-Efficient Models
If your appliance is old, it might be time for an upgrade. Look for Energy Star-rated or high-efficiency modelsâthey use less gas and perform better.
đ 7. Turn Off When Not in Use
This sounds simple, but itâs often overlooked.
- Turn off the burner immediately after cooking.
- Switch off the gas heater when you leave the room.
- Donât leave your geyser on all day if youâre only using it once or twice.
Every minute you save adds up over time.
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