Gas prices are rising so fast these days. Do you remember when the prices used to be a buck to a gallon? We used to complain about that already. But look what we have today. Now I’m wishing we accepted that buck rate in open arms. Prices are getting worst with each passing day. In some gas stations it’s up to $3 per gallon. Is that even possible? We’ll never stop fuel prices from rising. So we have to deal with our current situation. For those who can’t afford new hybrids, for those who own old cars, listen up very carefully. I got a couple of tips to help you ease the pain of fuel prices.
These tips come from About.com
Avoid the drive-thru windows. They say you can save serious gas mileage if you opt to park your car and dine in the restaurant. While you’re in line on the drive-thru, you pump the atmosphere with harmful emissions. Plus, you’re always in first gear. This means your consuming tremendous amounts of gas for getting your tummy filled. Park that car!
Stopping your car is the number one gas saver. In fact, some experts advise turning off your engine while you’re in the middle of long stop lights.
Build on fuel-efficient habits. First off, you have to accelerate at a more gradual rate. If you continue stomping on that fuel on your way, there isn’t going to be enough fuel to take you home. Secondly, you should anticipate stop lights. By seeing reds from afar, you can put your car in neutral and half-brake the rest of the way. Third, drive a little more slowly along the highways. Experts advise that shaving 5-10 miles per hour off your acceleration rate will do wonders for mileage. And it doesn’t affect your travel time that much. Lastly, shift gears quickly. Lower rpm’s don’t rev up your engine. This uses less gas.
Another thing, change your air filter regularly. Clean and pure air is the best for combustion. It makes the process more productive and less wasteful. You can also invest in fuel add-ons. But experts say its efficiency effects are well under 10%. But who knows, it might help.
Maintain optimum tire pressure. I usually put in 30-33, but this depends on your tire sizes. If your tires are over inflated or under inflated, this demands more effort from your engine. More effort means more power. More power means more gas consumption.
Those are some tips. I’ll keep you posted if I hear more.
DISCLAIMER: Don’t expect to save money and gas immediately. The effects of these things will be cumulative. You will only see it after months of consistent implementation. Well, it’s the small things that count.
Dave Collins
