With the national unleaded average at $3.28 a gallon and rising, most of us are feeling a pinch at the pump. For many of us, it is not realistic to just stop using gasoline. But there are some easy things you can do to help your gas go farther.
1) Slow down!- Studies show that keeping your speed at 55mph will burn 17% less fuel than driving 65mph. Leave a few minutes early and enjoy the drive!
2) Avoid sudden brakes and accelerations- Peeling away from green lights and slamming on your brakes at green lights may be fun, but it uses a tremendous amount of gas. Driving at a consistent speed can save 30% on fuel usage. Put on your cruise control and let the other guy win.
3) Stay in tune- Getting your air filters changed regularly and keeping tires properly inflated saves gas. Make it a part of your monthly routine.
4) Combine trips- Consolidate your errands into one long trip. Map your outings to make the most efficient stops and take lists with you to avoid having to return.
5) Take advantage of membership savings- Many grocery stores, warehouse stores (think Costco) and credit cards offer real savings on gasoline. Plan your trips wisely so you don't ever have to fill up at a more expensive station. Consistent use of memberships savings can really add up. Just be sure to pay off gas-saving credit cards every month. Otherwise, any savings you accrue will be offset by the interest you'll pay.
6) Get rid of the drag- Empty your trunk of any unnecessary items, especially heavier items. A lighter vehicle gets better mileage. Also, remove any bike or ski racks not in use.
7) Don't idle- Contrary to popular belief, turning your engine on and off does not use more gas. The rule of thumb is, if you are going to idle for more than 3 minutes, turn the engine off. Whenever possible, plan your trips to avoid congestion.
Use the lowest octane recommended- Unless your manufacturer recommends using high-grade gas, use the low-grade. Most vehicles do not perform better with the high or mid-grades.
9) Look for alternatives- Find a neighbor to carpool with to work or to take kids to school. Walk to local parks, libraries and shops. Use public transportation for day trips and while on vacation.
10) Buy wisely- If you are in the market for a new or used car, do your research. A manual transmission gets better gas mileage than an automatic. Consider buying a hybrid or other fuel-efficient vehicle. Beware, however, that most tax credits on hybrids are already phasing out.
Do you know of any other ways to save money at the pump? Let's discuss at the Blissfully Domestic Forum.
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It's all about common sense today. We do have to start remembering how our grandparents did and did without things. Love your blog.
Martha
Once every couple of months, use a fuel injector cleaner. Wait until your tank is almost completely empty (not hard these days haha), pour in a bottle, then fill up your tank. Some gas companies include this stuff in their gas, so look into that first. A clean fuel system is more efficient and uses less gas.
Use a engine flush to remove sludge and varnish from your engine. This will reduce friction and heat, thereby improving fuel mileage. 100% synthetic motor oil will help too.