Friday, August 22, 2008

Sharing my tips on how to save money on gas expenses


Gas is always a problem n my country. I hear price hikes every week and people keep on arguing and finding solutions on how to maintain the oil prices but no one has found the solution. It is a global problem wherein the global price of oil in the market keeps on increasing. Government people also in my own opinion does not give the proper solution even if they do have the power to make the oil price lower by omitting the expanded value added tax. If they are just sincere to give the public a lesser price they can do so but the problem is they can no longer collect their huge (EVAT) amounts. On the other hand, let us see this way, as a motorist let us keep our car in good condition to save more on gas and oil consumption. I will share my top 10 ways to save more on gas.

1. Get to work a different way

People spend most of their gas money traveling to and from work daily. Try assessing whether or not you really need to drive. You may try riding your bike or walking if your work in close by. If not, take a train or bus as the fares will probably cost less than driving to work yourself. Besides these alternatives there is always the tried and true tactic of carpooling to reduce how much you spend daily on gas.

2. Consolidate trips

If you know you need to go to the grocery store, vet and cleaners this week do all three trips in one. By doing this you will cut down on the amount of small trips you make throughout the week, thus saving yourself some gas.

3. Park it and walk

If all of your errands are located in one area, park your car and walk to each different store. If there is no need for you to drive, why waste the gas? Walking is also better for your health so you win all around.

4. Stop looking and park it

When parking, go with the first spot you see in stead of looking around for a “better spot”. Driving around the parking lot will just waste gas. And like I said, a little walking won’t hurt you.

5. Join the club

Save money on gas by joining loyalty clubs at gas stations or grocery stores with gas station. Grocery stores usually offer you discounts at their gas stations with your food purchases. Also, check online to find out the cheapest gas prices in your area. Simply do a search for “lowest gas prices” and you’ll encounter sites that can give you information about the price of gas at different stations in your area.

6. Fill up when you’re empty - and not before

Some people trick themselves to think they are saving money by only buying a half or fourth tank of gas. However, these little amounts will add up to the same as a full tank eventually and waste you gas by driving to the station each time. Wait until your tank is empty before filling up and fill it up all the way.

7. Get frequent tune-ups

Make sure you car is always operating at its best as this is when it uses gas most efficiently. Get regular tune-ups and oil changes as well as check the pressure in your tires. Maintaining your car will improve your gas mileage as well as increase the life of your car.

8. Do you REALLY need a Hummer?

If you drive an SUV, Hummer or other gas guzzling car, reevaluate if you really need it. Here’s a hint-if you live in the suburbs and work at an office you probably don’t. Look into getting a hybrid or a smaller car. Although the upfront cost may seem large, in the long run you will use less gas and the savings add up.

9. Stay consistent

When driving on the highway, try to keep a constant speed. Acceleration uses gas, so put it on cruise control to save up a little. Also, try and pick routes that require less stopping as the acceleration after the stop will use up gas as well. Try country roads where you can leave your windows open and turn off the A/C, adding to your decrease of gas usage.

10. Lighten your load

Remove unnecessary items from your car as the extra weight can reduce your gas mileage. Take a look in your trunk and decide if you really need to keep your golf clubs on hand 24/7.

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