Five Easy Ways To Conserve Gas |
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John Curry
23 December 2008
Though the fuel crisis and skyrocketing gas prices seem to have passed, they will be back with a vengeance when our economy returns. Regardless, it is still important to reduce our gas consumption to protect our environment and conserve resources for future generations. Here are 5 easy ways for you to conserve gas while saving money.
1. Travel less. This gas-saving method can be implemented in a variety of ways including planning ahead for your needs, consolidating your trips to the store with other errands, as well as walking and bicycling more, carpooling, utilizing public transportation, and working from home occasionally instead of commuting every day.
2. Properly maintain your car. Regular maintenance of your vehicle is one of the most important things you can do to maximize your vehicle's performance and increase its longevity. This includes regularly checking tire pressure, changing your oil, replacing air filters and getting tune-ups as recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.
3. Minimize damage to your vehicle. One way to prevent unnecessary damage to your vehicle is to install a set of curb ramps at the end of your roll-over curb driveway entries. Well-made curb ramps minimize damage to your car's undercarriage, tires, alignment and steering, improving your gas mileage.
4. Drive a fuel efficient car. If you have two vehicles at home, drive the more fuel efficient vehicle whenever possible. And, when you're in the market for a new car, consider trading in your gas-guzzling SUV or truck for a car that gets better gas mileage, like one of the many hybrids now on the market. Models to consider include the Toyota Prius, Nissan Versa, Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Chrysler Sebring E85.
5. Refill your gas tank slowly. Since modern gas pumps are safety-equipped with vapor returns, that vapor is sucked back out of your car and returned to the underground storage tank where it condenses back into gas. In effect, by pumping faster, you are paying for gas you don't keep. Instead, pump your gas slowly on the lowest setting to minimize vapor creation and keep most of what you pay for.
By following these five simple tips, you can conserve gas without any significant changes to your driving habits or lifestyle. At the same time, you'll reduce wear and tear on your vehicle and save time and money. What a bargain!