Sunday, October 28, 2007

How To Save At The Gas Pump

With some analysts predicting gas prices to peak at more than $ 2.50 per gallon or more, those of us on a budget will have to find ways to meet the increase fuel costs or reduced our consumption of gasoline.

Five weeks ago, I was able to pay $ 1.77 per gallon at a local station; The price had risen to $ 2.19 per gallon and climbing. So now when I fill up my 13 gallons tank of gas I pay $ 5.46 more. Filling up twice a week, or about 10 times a month on average, will cost me $ 54.60 more each month.

Fortunately, I have some wiggle room in my personal budget to meet this increase. For those who do not have this flexibility, here are some tips to help you survive at the cost of pumping awaiting you at your neighborhood gas station:

Maintain your vehicle

Keep your tires properly inflated, your engine tuned and regularly checking your oil are some small ways to help you save on fuel consumption and costs. Insufficiently inflated or inflated tires can cause mishandling. You will also have to replace your tires more often. A well-tuned engine, with regular oil changes, will help your vehicle is working properly and more efficiently, using less fuel.

Combine small frequent travel

Instead of making several short trips for shopping, doctor's visits, and other races, to combine the short trips in a larger journey. Plan your itinerary so that you can go from point A to point C, without having to obtain the right track to return to point B, without wasting time and fuel.

Carpooling and use other modes of transport

Two or more can travel cheaper if they pool their resources. At turns with neighbors on travel to the grocery store and for other races, including activities with children. Hop on a bicycle or on foot, if you are in a sort of a mile or your destination. You cut down on fuel use and exercise!

Watch your driving habits

Watch those jackrabbit starts and not the foot. Driving at a moderate speed, you use more fuel per mile when you drive faster than 55 mph. Limit your use of air conditioning when you are out on the road.

Online search for the lowest prices

Find the lowest possible price in your area can help reduce your fuel bill, especially if you fill up often, but will not fool any way to save a few cents. Search sites such as www.gasbuddy.com www.gaspricewatch.com and learn about the rates in your area of origin as well as in the areas of work or travel.

Use premium only if necessary

Prime fuel octane is generally only required for luxury vehicles and sports cars. You can save up to 20 cents a gallon or more by using a low octane gas. Putting premium gasoline in a car that does not need to do no harm to the engine, just your wallet.

Do not Believe The Hype!

It will not be long before you see commercials and ads for "miracle" fuel booster and other flimflam promising to help you save fuel and money. Remember, miracles are from God. Avoid hawkers and their hype and save money you want to spend in value of the products that you are going to need it for the gas prices higher anyway!

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