Record gas prices have forced us all to think about travel and budgeting wisely. I commute 25 miles each way to Young Living and am fortunate enough to drive a small car, though I am still amazed at the amount of little things that can contribute to fuel efficiency and a lower bottom line. I did some research online and in real life and came up with some suggestions that may help you squeeze a few more miles out of each tank this summer! A quick wrap-up from http://www.fueleconomy.gov/:
1) Keep your maximum speed below 60 mph. Yes, I can hear you cringing. For most autos, every 5 miles an hour you drive over 60 means you are basically paying an extra $.30 a gallon for your gas. Gas mileage takes a huge drop at any speed over 60, and staying at 60 can increase fuel economy by as much as 23%. You have to do a mental downshift as well when you drive 60, and be advised that people tend not to see you when you set the cruise and stay in the right lane. Be aware of merging traffic!
2) Hard breaking and aggressive acceleration can cost you big bucks at the pump. Almost 50% of an autos gas consumption is getting you up to speed. If you can get to that speed and stay there, it is a very efficient use of energy (so resist tailgating and darting in and out of traffic). Use your cruise control once you get to 60 and stay there on the freeway.
3) Avoid idling. You're basically getting 0 miles per gallon if you sit still with your engine running, so keep that in mind if you're in one place for any length of time.
4) Keep your tires properly inflated. This one is minor but basically free and will also help keep your tires wearing evenly over time so they last longer.
5) Use your overdrive. This 5th gear keeps your rpms lower on your engine and is an efficient use of gasoline at higher speeds.
6) Remove excess weight from your vehicle. 100 lbs can reduce your mpg by 2%. This is minor unless you have a larger vehicle and are toting around a lot of unnecessary weight. On a road trip of any length or for a commuter, this is a simple fix and can save you cash.
7) Keeping your car tuned and filters clean can give you a 4-10% gas savings.
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2 comments:
Good post! Another tip to save gas is to always go inside when ordering fast food. Cars sometimes idle for 10 minutes or more as they weave their way around and once in - you can't get out. If you walk in you may also consider a salad instead or fries!
Diane McAffee
We just found out that the place we get our gas charges 10 cents less per gallon if you pay with cash versus credit of debit card out at the pump. Plus (BONUS) you get the extra exercise walking in and out of the station!
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