Beat High Gas Prices Ten Smart Ways

Gas prices have topped $4 a gallon in some states, and are inching higher and higher in many others. You're probably not surprised: if you're reading this blog, then you know that gasoline comes from oil, and oil is an unreliable source of fuel. Prices are volatile right now because the Middle East is so shaky, worldwide demand is rising, and some American refineries are not operating at full capacity.

But even when prices at the pump aren't high, the environmental and human health "costs" we pay for burning gasoline are out of sight, considering the pollution and climate change  it causes and the toll it takes on the air we breathe and the water we drink.

These tips will help you save money at the pump - because they'll help you drive less.

• 1. Drive smart - Avoid quick starts and stops, use cruise control on the highway, and don't idle.
  
  
• 2. Drive the speed limit - Remember - every 5 mph you drive above 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.10 per gallon for gas.
  
  
• 3. Drive less - Walk, bicycle, use a scooter or moped, combine trips, and telecommute.
  
  
• 4. Drive a more fuel-efficient car - Consider one of the new hybrids; at the very least, choose from among the EPA's "Fuel Economy Leaders" in the class vehicle you're considering.
  
  
• 5. Keep your engine tuned up - Improve gas mileage by an average of 4.1 percent by maintaining your vehicle in top condition.
  
  
• 6. Carpool - According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, 32 million gallons of gasoline would be saved each day if every car carried just one more passenger on its daily commute.
  
  
• 7. Use mass transit and "Ride Share" programs - Why pay for gasoline at all?
  
  
• 8. Keep tires properly inflated - Improve gas mileage by around 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Replace worn tires with the same make and model as the originals.
  
  
• 9. Buy the cheapest gas you can find - Buy gas in the morning, from wholesale shopper's clubs, and using gas-company rebate cards. Track neighborhood prices on the Internet.
  
  
• 10. Support higher fuel-efficiency standards and the development of alternative fuels - Ultimately, our best hope for beating the gas crisis is to increase fuel efficiency while we transition to renewable and non-petroleum based fuels. Endorse efforts to boost average fuel efficiency to at least 40 mpg. Support programs that promote research and development of alternatives to transportation systems based on oil.

Need a gauge to check your tire pressure? Find one in our store.

Want 10 ways to save money and energy in your home? Here you go.

These energy-saving tips save more than fuel.

Comments

[Maricris @ SittingAround]

Not only that we save money for gas cost but also save the environment. Thank you for sharing.

[mspy]

You can increase your gas mileage by up to 15 percent if you travel at 55, rather than 65, miles per hour. In addition, according to The Union of Concerned Scientists, dropping from 70 to 60 mph improves fuel efficiency by an average of 17.2 percent, while dropping from 75 to 55 improves fuel efficiency by 30.6 percent!So, driving slowly saves your fuel

[Diane MacEachern]

Excellent points. Do you think we should turn the national speed limit back to 55 mph?

[Leisa Dreps]

You can also cut down on gas expenses by scheduling your trips. Instead of going to the supermarket every day or every other day, why not make it twice or once a week? Not only do you save up on gas expenses, you also have more time engage in other productive activities. :)

[Diane MacEachern]

You are so right, Leisa. Thanks for writing.

[Jerry]

An good auto air filter is important. A K&N filter delivers virtually unrestricted flow letting your engine run stronger, cleaner and with greater fuel efficiency. It lasta for 1,000,000 miles