As an LPG user knows, it’s important to keep track of how much LPG is remaining in your gas bottle. Not only does this help you to avoid running out of LPG unexpectedly but it also allows you to make sure that you’re using the gas efficiently.
LPG is a finite resource and it’s important to use it as sparingly as possible. Tracking the remaining amount of LPG in your gas bottle can help you know when you should purchase your next cylinder.
Additionally, keeping track of your LPG usage can also help you to spot any potential leaks in your LPG system. So, if you’re not already tracking your LPG usage, now is the time to start!
6 Ways to Estimate How Much LPG You Have Left
1. Ask Your Gas Supplier for an Estimate
When your gas LPG supplier delivers your gas bottle, simply ask them for an estimate. They typically provide an estimate depending on the number of users your household has. This way you’ll know exactly what you’re using and how much it will cost.
Additionally, you can also ask your gas supplier for tips on how to conserve gas and optimise its use. For example, they may recommend insulating your home or installing a more efficient furnace. Asking for an estimate is a simple way to take control of your gas usage and keep your costs down.
2. Check the Bottle’s Gauge Needle
LPG cylinders are typically installed with a gauge that shows you the amount of LPG that is left in the tank. Simply check the gauge needle to know when you need to contact your LPG supplier for a new bottle delivery.
There are two main types of LPG gauges: direct reading and indirect reading. Direct reading gauges show you the exact gas level, while indirect reading gauges use a needle to show you the estimated gas level. Either way, it is important to know where your gauge needle is pointing so that you can keep an eye on your gas consumption.
3. Weigh Your LPG Cylinder
One of the simplest ways to know how much LPG you have left is to weigh the cylinder. First, place a bathroom scale or any platform weighing machine on a flat surface. Then, place the gas bottle on the scale and read the weight on the screen.
You may need to do a little math on this as you need to subtract the weight of an empty bottle from the reading you got. The usual total weight of a full 45kg gas bottle is around 78kg. This makes an empty cylinder weigh about 33kg.
If your weight reading says 48kg, it means that you have about 15kg of gas left in your bottle. So, when the weight is approaching 35 kg, it may be best to call a reliable supplier near you for a gas bottle delivery.
Weighing your LPG cylinder regularly will help you to make the most efficient use of it.
4. Try to Estimate the Gas Used with a Calendar
This trick may seem old school to modern family living but it can help track your LPG usage.
First, mark your calendar when the delivery was made and the first time you are using the new bottle. Continue marking the calendar whenever you use it.
Say, you cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner on the second day, note it on the calendar. Then if on the third day, you only used the LPG for cooking lunch, note it as well. Do this as the days go and by the time you need a new bottle, you’ll have a good idea of approximately how long you will use a bottle with the frequency of usage you noted on your calendar.
Doing so will also give you an idea of when to call your LPG provider for a new bottle. It helps to get a spare bottle and call them 3 to 5 days before your estimated date on your calendar comes. This way, you’ll have a continuous supply of gas.
5. Use a Gas Consumption Calculator
LPG consumption varies depending on factors such as appliance efficiency, temperature and how long LPG gas appliances are used. Gas consumption calculations help you understand your LPG gas usage so you can better manage your LPG gas consumption and costs.
Generally, gas consumption is based on the calorific value of the LPG gas, which measures the energy content. The LPG consumption calculator takes into account all of the relevant factors mentioned above, making it an essential tool for understanding your LPG gas consumption.
6. Use a Smartphone App
Many LPG gas suppliers now offer a smartphone app that you can use to monitor the gas levels in cylinders. The app will send an alert if the LPG levels get too low, allowing users to take action and prevent a potentially hazardous situation. This also allows LPG users to place an order from their supplier before the gas runs out.
Whether you’re cooking dinner for your family or trying to heat your home on a cold winter’s night, an empty gas bottle is a major inconvenience. Regardless of which method you use, knowing how much LPG is left in your gas bottle will help you avoid the panic of running out of gas.
It also helps to have the contact information of your Brisbane LPG supplier ready and within reach in case of emergency.
