Blogs

How Long Does a 45kg LPG Gas Bottle Last?

April 07, 2026

One of the most common questions from homeowners in the Macedon Ranges, Sunbury and Melton area is: how long will a 45kg LPG bottle actually last? The answer depends on what you use it for, how many appliances are connected, and the time of year — but we can give you a solid guide based on what we see across hundreds of local deliveries.

What Affects How Long a 45kg Bottle Lasts?

Several factors determine how quickly you go through a 45kg LPG cylinder:

  • Number of appliances connected — A home running hot water, heating and a cooktop off LPG will use gas faster than one using it for hot water only.
  • Household size — More people means more showers, more cooking and more heating demand.
  • Season — Winter usage in the Macedon Ranges can be two to three times higher than summer, especially if you rely on LPG for space heating.
  • Appliance efficiency — Older heaters and hot water systems tend to burn through gas faster than modern units.

Typical Usage Timeframes

Here is a rough guide based on common setups we see across our delivery area:

  • Hot water only (1–2 people): A single 45kg bottle can last around 3 to 4 months.
  • Hot water + cooktop (2–3 people): Expect roughly 2 to 3 months per bottle.
  • Hot water + heating + cooktop (family of 4): In winter, you may go through a 45kg bottle in 4 to 6 weeks. In summer, it could last 2 to 3 months.

These are estimates — your actual consumption will vary. If you find yourself running out more often than expected, it may be worth considering a second bottle on a changeover valve, or stepping up to a 210kg bulk LPG cylinder.

Running Two 45kg Bottles

Most homes in our area run two 45kg bottles connected by a changeover valve. When one bottle empties, the valve switches to the second bottle automatically. This gives you time to arrange a refill without running out of gas. It is the most common setup for residential LPG customers and works well for moderate usage households.

When a 45kg Bottle Is Not Enough

If you are regularly running through bottles faster than every few weeks, or if you have a larger property with high hot water and heating demands, a 45kg setup may not be the most practical or cost-effective option. Signs that you might benefit from a larger supply include:

  • Ordering refills more than once a month in winter
  • Running a large home with multiple bathrooms
  • Operating a farm, workshop or business premises on LPG
  • Using LPG for central ducted heating across a large floor area

In these cases, a 210kg LPG cylinder delivers significantly more gas per fill and reduces the frequency of deliveries. Many customers across the Macedon Ranges and surrounding areas have made the switch — read our guide on 45kg vs 210kg LPG for a full comparison.

Tips to Make Your LPG Last Longer

  • Service your hot water system and heaters regularly to keep them running efficiently.
  • Use a timer on your hot water system so it is not heating water when you do not need it.
  • Insulate your home properly — reducing heat loss means your heater works less.
  • Check for leaks around regulators and hose connections. Even small leaks waste gas over time. See our LPG safety guide for what to look for.

Order Your Next 45kg LPG Delivery

Macedon Gas delivers 45kg LPG bottles across the Macedon Ranges, Sunbury, Melton, Gisborne, Woodend, Kyneton and surrounding towns. Whether you need a routine refill or want to discuss the best setup for your home, give us a call on 0477 807 297 or get in touch online.

View our full range of residential 45kg LPG delivery options or check out our FAQ page for more answers to common questions.