Average gas consumption of a holiday home: what to expect
Energy consumption is a key concern for many holiday home owners and renters. If your holiday home uses gas, the costs can quickly add up, particularly during colder months. However, it is not always clear what the average gas consumption is or what factors influence it. In this article, we explain what you can typically expect regarding gas use in a holiday home and how you can manage it effectively.
Why gas consumption varies in holiday homes
Unlike regular homes, holiday homes are usually occupied only temporarily or during certain seasons. This results in irregular energy use, heavily depending on how often and during which seasons the property is used. Someone who only uses the house during summer will have minimal gas use, while year-round or winter stays demand significantly more gas for heating and hot water.
Additionally, the level of insulation plays a crucial role. Many older holiday homes have little to no insulation, meaning heat escapes quickly. This increases gas consumption, especially during autumn and winter stays. Newer or recently renovated homes with double glazing and roof or floor insulation typically use much less gas.
What is the average gas consumption of a holiday home?
Gas consumption varies widely, but based on real-world data, the following averages apply:
| Usage Type | Annual Gas Consumption | Typical Scenario |
| Summer use (hot water only) | 0 – 100 m³ | Showering and cooking during summer months |
| Year-round basic use | 300 – 800 m³ | Heating during autumn and winter with limited comfort |
| Luxury home, frequently occupied | 800 – 1500 m³ | Heating, underfloor heating, jacuzzi and other features |
Note: These are general estimates. Actual consumption depends on insulation, heating systems, user behavior and climate.
Factors affecting gas consumption in a holiday home
Several factors influence gas use in a holiday home. Key aspects include:
- Insulation level: Well-insulated homes retain heat better and use less gas.
- Heating systems: Modern high-efficiency boilers consume less gas than older gas heaters.
- Occupancy pattern: Intensive winter use leads to higher gas consumption than occasional summer stays.
- Additional features: Amenities like a jacuzzi increase heating demand considerably.
- Start-up consumption: Intermittent use means heating systems need to reheat spaces frequently.
User behavior also has a significant impact. Leaving heating on all day, taking long hot showers or heating unused rooms can drastically increase gas consumption.
Smart gas use: how to save
Saving on gas starts with insight. By measuring your consumption, using a smart meter or energy monitor, you can better understand your usage patterns and identify areas for improvement.
Simple upgrades can also make a difference:
- Draught excluders
- Radiator foil
- Sealing gaps and cracks
Technical solutions such as smart thermostats, zoned heating or alternatives like air-to-air heat pumps or pellet stoves can lead to major savings, especially for holiday homes used frequently or year-round.
Why monitoring leads to savings
Many holiday homes do not have smart meters or energy monitoring systems by default. However, monitoring is essential to gain control over your energy use. With real-time tracking, you can detect spikes in consumption and identify if systems are running unnecessarily.
This is especially valuable for homes with irregular occupancy or rentals. You can quickly spot unexpected usage and take action. Active energy management not only saves money but also promotes more sustainable energy use.
Conclusion
The average gas consumption of a holiday home ranges widely between 100 and 1500 m³ per year. Actual consumption depends on insulation, heating systems, usage frequency and personal habits. By gaining insight into your energy use and investing in insulation or smart technologies, you can lower your energy bills, boost comfort and manage your costs effectively.
Want to better understand the gas consumption of your holiday home?
Frequently asked questions about gas consumption in holiday homes
What is the average gas consumption of a holiday home?
Gas usage varies based on how and when the home is used. Summer-only usage usually stays below 100 m³ per year. Year-round use typically ranges between 300 and 800 m³, while luxury homes with amenities like underfloor heating or a jacuzzi may consume up to 1500 m³ per year.
Why do holiday homes often use more gas than regular homes?
Holiday homes tend to have poorer insulation than regular residences. Additionally, irregular use means heating systems must reheat spaces frequently, leading to higher consumption, particularly during colder months.
How can I reduce the gas consumption of my holiday home?
You can lower gas usage by improving insulation, using a smart thermostat and avoiding unnecessary heating. Installing radiator foil, draught excluders and monitoring your usage can also help reduce energy consumption.
Is it wise to switch to gas-free heating in a holiday home?
It depends on your usage and the technical possibilities of the property. Alternatives like heat pumps, pellet stoves or infrared heating can be good solutions for homes without a gas connection. Combining these with solar panels can lead to significant energy savings.
How can I accurately track the gas consumption of my holiday home?
A smart gas meter or energy monitor allows you to track your gas consumption easily. This provides daily, weekly or monthly insights, making it easier to take targeted actions and prevent unnecessary waste.