While gas prices are slowly falling down to a more bearable price, the high cost of
gas is still playing havoc in the pockets of the American public.
Two of the most
obvious ways to cut gas consumption are to combine trips and carpool. But there
are other ways consumers can save money on gas.
- Use a dashboard window sun cover to help keep the sun's rays out of your
vehicle. These are fairly inexpensive (about $15). Leave your windows
cracked just a tiny amount to allow some air flow in the vehicle. When you
crank up on a heated summer day, the air conditioner will not have to run
as hard to cool the vehicle, thus saving gas.
- If you are in the market for a new car, consider purchasing a hybrid such as
a Honda or a Toyota. These types of autos are more environmentally
friendly and get great gas mileage. If you travel a lot, such as to work or
traveling, a fuel efficient hybrid auto can save you a lot of gas money every
year.
- Avoid driving during rush hour. Starting and stopping uses more gas than
driving at a steady speed. When on the open road, use the cruise control
to allow your auto to maintain a steady speed.
- If possible, don't make trips during the hottest part of the day in the
summer. Driving during the hottest part of the day causes the air
conditioner to be run more, thereby causing the need for more gas usage.
Make trips early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Keep your vehicle's tires properly maintained. Tires that are do not contain
enough air will cause your auto to use more gas. It's a good idea to check
the air pressure on your tires about once a month, particularly if you drive
daily. Check your tires before traveling, when the auto has not been driven
for a few hours. Rotate your tires regularly, and be sure to have your
vehicle checked for proper alignment by a mechanic.
- Unload your auto! Avoid keeping items in your auto that you don't need in
it. Unnecessary weight causes more gas consumption. The heavier the
vehicle is, the more it takes to move it, thus costing more in gas. Hauling
items in your auto and using it for a storage container only adds to your
gas bill.
- Change the air filter and fuel filter regularly. Changing the oil and checking
the transmission fluid are also good choices for keeping your vehicle
running smoothly and helping to save money on gas.
- Don't buy gas when the gas tanker truck has freshly filled the reserve
tanks. When the tanks are freshly refilled, any sediment in the tank is
flushed throughout the entire tank of gas, and some of that sediment is
sure to find its way into your auto tank. Use another gas store or wait a
few hours to refuel, allowing time for the sediment to filter back down to
the bottom of the tank.
- Fill your tank before major holidays and the first of the month. Gas prices
in some areas are higher during the holiday season and on the first through
the third of the month.
