Gas Saving Tips | How to Save Money on This Mounting Expense!
The price of gasoline is on the rise. This is truly a great concern if you are following a tight budget – which is unfortunately most of us right now.
Many people have opted to stay home this summer due to the mounting prices and its a great idea to have a staycation. But, what if you already booked those rooms and bought the tickets? You need to figure out a way to minimize the amount of money you are spending on gas.
So how can you save some money on gas? Check out these few tips to help you maximize your expense!
The carpool system
This is a great idea for employees and students alike. Since all of you will have the same destination, there is no need to bring extra vehicles if you can all fit in one car or van. If you are with your co-workers, it is a good idea to bring your cars alternately or on rotation. If you have children that you bring to school or social events, exchange driving responsibilities with your friends.
Plan your route to avoid traffic jams
Because you can’t avoid excessive idling, braking and acceleration while in a traffic, traffic is usually responsible for a big chunk of your gas consumed. You might avoid jams sometimes however, if you learn traffic patterns in your area and use them to your advantage.
Commute to work
You can always take the public transportation system when going to the office. This is also a good way to relax since you are not driving. You can even take a short nap while on your way.
Look at the prices of different gas stations
Take time to drive around and check the pump prices of the gas stations near your neighborhood. Keep in mind that a few cents difference can add up to a lot if you continually have your car re-filled in the same gas station all the time. If you have a smart phone, you can download applications that will find the prices for you, like gasbuddy.com.
Shed some sweat
A good way to save money on gas and keep yourself healthy at the same time is by walking or riding a bike to your destination. It saves time since you do not have to look for parking and also makes you healthier from the exercise. Utilizing these alternatives will also keep you from getting stuck in traffic which will surely waste a lot of your time and gas.
Avoid High Speeds
As your speed increases, your aerodynamic drag increases in an exponential fashion. Driving 62 mph (100 km/h) vs 75 mph (120 km/h) will reduce fuel consumption by about 15%.
Keep your car in very good condition
It is necessary to keep your car’s engine in good running condition so that it will not consume a lot of fuel. When driving around on errands, plan out your route before you even get out of the house. This will minimize your trips going back and forth. If you check the oil and check your antifreeze, these 2 items alone will help keep your cars engine is tip top condition!
Use A/C Sparingly
When the air conditioner is on it puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used (by about 20%). The defrost position on most vehicles also uses the air conditioner.
Check your car’s tire pressure
Make it a habit to check your car’s tires so each one has the right amount of pressure. Having unequal pressure can greatly affect the car’s fuel economy. It is also advised for you to refrain from accelerating too fast since this means burning a lot more fuel.
These are some of the things that you can do to save on gas. Gasoline is not a renewable resource, therefore using it wisely is very important to conserve this valuable commodity.
For more tips, please visit the Money & Finance section of our website!
