Nearly 11 million French households depend on natural gas, the second most-used household energy after electricity. With regulated prices set by public authorities and supplied by Engie (formerly GDF Suez), the average annual gas bill per household is around €800, including subscription and taxes. Gas primarily heats homes (81% of consumption), produces hot water (12%), and powers cooking (7%). Reducing gas use can significantly lighten this expense. Here are practical, expert-recommended solutions to cut your gas bill.
Simple, effective measures can reduce heating expenses and lower your gas bill when using gas for warmth.
Start with basics: never place objects or laundry on gas heaters, and keep curtains away to ensure proper heat distribution.
Proper thermostat settings can save about 7%. Aim for 19°C in living rooms and 17°C in bedrooms for optimal comfort without overheating. Lower temperatures at night for extra savings.
Avoid heating unused rooms like bedrooms or offices during the day. A programmable thermostat is ideal, heating specific areas only when needed.
When ventilating, lower or turn off radiators to prevent unnecessary activation.
Close shutters at nightfall to retain warmth, and seal gaps around exterior doors or unheated rooms to block drafts—both proven ways to save gas.
Insulate pipes carrying hot water from your boiler to radiators using easy DIY options like mineral fiber strips or foam sleeves to minimize heat loss.
For gas boilers, schedule annual professional maintenance—it's mandatory and ensures efficiency.
Hot water is the next biggest gas expense. Gas water heaters maintain high temperatures for on-demand supply.
Set your water heater to 55-60°C: below risks bacterial growth; above promotes scale buildup, both leading to inefficiency and higher bills.
Install water-saving showerheads, shower stoppers, or thermostatic mixers on taps, especially showers, to reduce consumption.
Cooking accounts for 7% of gas use, but simple habits make a difference.
Always cover pots and pans to retain heat, shorten cooking times, and save gas. Match utensils to burner size.
Clean burners regularly to avoid clogs that increase gas use.
Beyond daily habits, eligible low-income households can receive the state-funded "energy voucher" (chèque énergie) to offset gas bills. Qualification is based on reference fiscal income (RFR) under €10,800.
Amounts range from €48 to €277, depending on RFR and consumption (gas, electricity, wood, etc.). No application needed—the tax authorities identify recipients and send via the Services and Payment Agency (ASP) annually for direct bill payment.
