Highway Robbery at the Pump
Well, if finally happened. Gas went over four bucks today. I went to fill up this morning and paid $4.12 per gallon. Just two years ago, the price per gallon was $2.13. Think of the consequences if everything we have to buy increased at that percentage.
I keep thinking of all those people who claimed we invaded Iraq for oil. So, why didn't the price go down with all the oil we stoled from Iraq?
Of course, if the government (Federal, State and City) would just ease up on the gas taxes, it would help. But, in the meantime, here are a few hints from http://www.gasbuddy.com/ to conserve fuel:
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%.
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%.
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%.
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.
Keep Windows Closed
Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.
Service Vehicle Regularly
Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.
Use Cruise Control
Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.
Avoid Heavy Loads
Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.
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.
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.
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%.
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%.
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%.
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.
Keep Windows Closed
Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.
Service Vehicle Regularly
Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.
Use Cruise Control
Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.
Avoid Heavy Loads
Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.
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.
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.
Don't Go Anywhere
Just kidding, I added this in. Of course, gas had to go up just when the speed limit finally increased on the interstate!
5 comments:
OR buy a Toyota Prius......
Hey, at my age I have precious little to gloat about. I'm entitled.
Bob, You are a lucky dog! I would love a Prius but don't believe in car payments.
What about a Yugo? :o)
Keep the windows up AND turn off the A/C? I guess killing us all off from heat stroke would reduce fuel consumption!
Junk,
yeah. that won't be happening here, I can promise you that.
Lin, how do you put videos or pictures on your blog? I just can't seem to figure it out!
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