10 Tips To Reduce Gas Use

Gas prices have hit record highs, with the national average at $4.30 as of writing. That’s a hike of over $0.62 per gallon in a week! With prices expected to climb even more over the next several months, it’s more important than ever to drive efficiently reduce gas use.

10 Tips to Save on Gas

 

1. Don’t drive too far to fill up

The “victory” in buying the cheapest gas possible is exciting, but what’s the point in driving all around town to compare prices when you’re burning fuel to save on fuel? Use an app like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel near you.

 

2. Avoid idling

When your car is running, but not going anywhere, you’re basically getting 0 miles per gallon. So if you’re going to be parked somewhere for more than a minute, and if it is safe, switch to park.

 

3. Drive the speed limit

Consumption goes up once the speedometer heads north of 50 mph. In fact, for every 5 mph over 50 mph, you’ll pay an additional 24 cents per gallon.

 

4. Use cruise control

Using cruise control and coasting on the highway will save gas since you aren’t breaking and gassing as often.

 

5. Avoid rush hour

The stopping and starting will cost more in terms of fuel.

 

6. Lighten your load

When you clear out any excess heavy items in your trunk or storage space, you’ll save money in the process. Every 100 pounds you remove increases mileage by 2%. A good rule of thumb: If you haven’t touched something in three months, you can probably unload it.

7. Determine how to cool

When driving on roads, windows may be more fuel-efficient than AC, but once on the highway, windows will cause drag that will cost more for fuel.

 

8. Check your tires

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. If they aren’t, you’ll be using extra gas to make up for it.

 

9. Get your car checked

Maintenance problems that aren’t fixed could be causing your vehicle to not run smoothly. This can mean your car is working harder than it needs to.

 

 

10. Just say “no!”

The most obvious way to save gas is not to drive. At a minimum, make an effort to gang up your errands so you don’t have to make repeat trips. If possible, carpool to split the costs of driving. Or walk or ride your bike instead. Not only will you cut fuel costs, but you’ll also get a great workout.