Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Two-pin sockets and some three-pin sockets are in use.

China's domestic gas supply consists of both piped gas and liquid bottled gas. Piped gas is generally available in many cities.

It is typical, at least in the main cities, for electricity, piped gas, telephone and water bills to be sent out monthly. They can be paid at Post Offices, or at the utility company offices. Many expatriate employers refund the cost of utility bills. It has been reported that typical gas, water and power bills for a 2-bedroom apartment in winter do not generally exceed US$100 per month, but this will of course depend on which region of China you are resident in.

Some apartment complex management companies provide their tenants with a collated summary of their bill charges, but it is advisable to ask for the original bills and to pay these yourself rather than via the management company.

Bottled gas is relatively cheap to buy, and delivery is quite efficient.

In some areas natural gas is not scented, and it is therefore crucial to ensure that appliances are well-ventilated and wise to install a gas detector. Detectors are not generally available in China and may therefore need to be brought from home.

Tap water is not safe to drink without boiling. Most people buy bottled water for drinking, but if doing so it is important to ensure that the bottles have not been refilled; stick to brand names with unbroken seals.