Save Fuel, Save Money...

Stardate 5404.0

With the hikes in gas prices, perhaps some reminders on how to help your fuel efficiency stretch to the max are in order...

1. 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%.
   
2. Do Not Accelerate or Brake Hard
   By anticipating the traffic and applying slow steady acceleration and braking, fuel economy may increase by as much as 20%.
   
3. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
   Keep tire air pressure at the level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. A single tire under inflated by 2 PSI, increases fuel consumption by 1%.
   
4. 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.
   
5. Keep Windows Closed
   Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.
   
6. Service Vehicle Regularly
   Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.
   
7. Use Cruise Control
   Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.
   
8. Avoid Heavy Loads
   Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.
   
9. Avoid Long Idles
   If you anticipate being stopped for more than 1 minute, shut off the car. Restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle for this time.
   
10. Purchase a Fuel Efficient Vehicle
    When buying a new vehicle examine the vehicle's rated fuel efficiency. Usually choosing a small vehicle with a manual transmission will provide you with great fuel economy.

Another thing you can do to conserve fuel is simply to use alternate transportation. Walk or bike, or perhaps carpool or use transit to get to work.