Image from Richmanwisco
Well, it looks like fuel prices are on the rise once again. Where they’ll stop, no one knows.
When fuel prices were their highest – I believe it was two years ago – it was absolutely ridiculous at the pump. I remember filling up and watching as numbers on the pump tick by at lightening speed. As the tank finally started to become full, I couldn’t believe the numbers I was seeing — just for a simple tank of gas.
Hopefully, things won’t get that bad — but every time gas prices rise, it gets me thinking about what we need to do to cut our fuel consumption — and costs. Of course, there are things we do on a regular basis to conserve on fuel, but there are so many more actions we could take to cut back.
Check out the list below to see what you are doing right, and what else can do.
6 Tips for Saving Fuel
1. Group your trips together
If you have several errands to run, be sure to do it in a few trips as possible. I find that making a list of where I need to go – and what I need to get – helps quite a bit.
2. Car pool whenever possible
If you plan on meeting friends for dinner, you might decide to car pool instead — if it makes sense logistically. Do you have a co-worker or two that you can ride share with? This is great for your wallet and the environment.
3. Maintain your vehicle
A well tuned engine will work more efficiently and make better use of the fuel that keeps it running. Having your tire properly inflated will also use less fuel than tires which are not properly inflated. While I’m on this subject, Costco inflates their tires with nitrogen, which is neat because it gives you better long term tire inflation pressure.
4. Don’t leave your car idling
Be sure to turn your car off if you are waiting for someone or it might be awhile before you move your car again.
5. Drive the speed limit
Driving faster uses more fuel. Give yourself extra time to get where you need to go and take it slow, getting there.
6. Walk, ride your bike, and/or use public transportation whenever possible
We all know this right? Of course it is a great way to conserve, but it’s still something I need to work on.
Another big thing you can do to cut your fuel costs, is to purchase gas at places where the fuel is the least expensive. Keep in mind that you don’t want to drive all over town trying to figure out where that is either. That would just be counterproductive. There some good smartphone apps for that – gasbuddy is one.
Luckily, there is a helpful website available – Fuel Economy.gov – which will help locate the lowest gas price, nearest you.
How about you? Are you doing all you can to cut your fuel costs?
