South Africans love a good braai — it’s more than just a way to cook; it’s a cultural experience. But with the rising cost of energy, many homeowners are asking: how much gas does a gas braai actually use? And more importantly — is it efficient?
At EHL Gas, we’re passionate about helping you make informed, energy-smart choices. In this article, we break down gas consumption during a braai and share practical tips to help you cook smarter and save more.
The gas consumption of a braai depends on several factors:
1. Braai Size & Burners
Small portable braais use around 200–350 grams/hour.
Standard 2- to 4-burner gas braais use about 400–1,000 grams/hour, depending on how many burners are active.
2. Cooking Time
The average braai session lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. If your 3-burner braai uses 900g/hour, that’s roughly 1.8kg per session.
3. Flame Intensity
Cooking on full blast consumes more gas than slow-cooking or simmering. Adjusting your flame to suit your cooking needs can save fuel.
4. Wind and Weather Conditions
Windy conditions make your burners work harder, increasing consumption. A sheltered braai area helps optimize usage.
Gas braais win hands-down when it comes to efficiency and control:
Instant ignition saves time and fuel.
Even heat distribution means faster cooking.
No preheating like charcoal — gas gets hot instantly.
Over time, gas braais use less energy per cook, especially if you follow basic energy-saving practices.
✅ Preheat Only As Needed
Most gas braais heat up in under 10 minutes. Don’t waste gas over-preheating.
✅ Use Lids and Thermometers
Trap heat with a lid to reduce cooking time and gas usage.
✅ Cook Multiple Items at Once
Batch-cooking saves both time and gas. Use the grill space smartly.
✅ Turn Off Unused Burners
If you’re only using part of the grill, shut off the rest.
✅ Clean Your Burners Regularly
Blocked burners work harder and burn more gas. Keep them clean and efficient.
If your braai uses about 1kg/hour, a 9kg cylinder will last approximately 9 hours of cooking time.
Yes. Over time, gas is more cost-effective due to less waste, faster cooking, and reusable cylinders.
Only if you use all the burners. You can control usage by using fewer burners for smaller meals.
Use a lid, moderate flame, and cook multiple items together. This reduces gas use by up to 30%.
No. Gas braais should always be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas to avoid carbon monoxide build-up.
Understanding how much gas your braai uses is the first step toward smarter, more energy-efficient cooking. Whether you’re hosting a weekend family gathering or a midweek steak night, making small changes can lead to big savings.
At EHL Gas, we’re here to supply reliable LPG, expert advice, and hassle-free gas solutions that fuel your lifestyle.
💬 Have more questions? Contact us today for tailored gas solutions and cylinder refills!
