Save on Gas Bills: Key Tips Inside

Gas bills are determined by two factors: actual usage and billing accuracy. The former depends on whether heat energy is effectively used for cooking the food; the latter depends on whether the bill is calculated based on actual readings rather than "estimates." If the kitchen is energy-efficient but has long-term estimation errors, the energy-saving benefits may not be reflected in the bill. Therefore, aligning both aspects is key to truly saving on gas bills.

Key Point 1: Kitchen Energy Saving

According to Towngas Company's energy-saving tips, you can adopt the following methods:

Thaw food completely before cooking (reduces carbon emissions by approximately 25%)
- Avoid using heat to thaw, significantly shortening heating time.
Match pot size to the flame, ensuring the bottom covers the flame (reduces carbon emissions by approximately 30%)
- Prevents flame overflow and ineffective heat dissipation.
When steaming food, reduce the heat once the water reaches boiling point (reduces carbon emissions by approximately 25%)
- Maintain a gentle boil to avoid excessive heating.
Prioritize using metal utensils for steaming (reduces carbon emissions by approximately 25% compared to ceramic)
- Faster heat conduction leads to lower overall gas usage for the same amount.
Use a properly sized lid (reduces carbon emissions by approximately 10%)
- Traps heat and steam, speeding up the cooking process.

Key Point Two: Regularly Read the Gas Meter

Understanding Adjustment Mechanisms

After switching from long-term estimates to actual meter readings, one-time deductions or surcharges often occur; only by billing based on actual readings can energy-saving effects be accurately reflected in the charges. Regularly arranging for online meter readings or calling to report readings can protect yourself.

Recently, some residents, due to long-term use of estimated readings, saw a one-time deduction of past "overestimated" amounts after an on-site reading, resulting in a negative bill of –$6,231.48; conversely, if there was a history of "underestimation," a surcharge may be required after the actual reading. Switching to billing based on actual readings ensures that energy-saving achievements are truthfully reflected in the costs.

Immediate Reading for Abnormal Usage

If there is abnormal usage, first take a clear photo of the gas meter (showing the reading and date/time) with your mobile phone, then immediately report the reading through official channels and request recalculation based on the actual reading (online customer center, bill QR code, Towngas App, 24-hour hotline 2880 5522, smart meter reading).