This gas shortage we’re dealing with here in Georgia is nothing short of frustrating. For the last few weeks gasoline has been harder and harder to come by, especially around Metro Atlanta. No one seems to really know when this crunch will end either. Some estimates say it’ll be at least two more weeks, but only time will tell.
As maddening as this is, it’s a reminder to me of just how much we all take our resources for granted. I am pointing the finger at myself here as much as anyone. But, really, isn’t it true that we tend to assume that the things we want and need will just always be there? In this age of technology, we might be incredibly advanced in gadgetry, but we have certainly become spoiled in many ways. We are used to being able to hop in our vehicles for whatever jaunt we decide we want to take at any given moment. If it’s a one block trip to a convenience store, we go. If it’s a 20 mile drive to a mall, we go. Whatever the case, we go. But, now we have to stop and think about those trips. We have to decide if it’s actually worth it to use that gas. We have to determine if it’s really worth waiting in the long gas lines just so that we can go some place. And, honestly, I think this is a good thing. Don’t get me wrong, the gas shortage bugs me as much as it does anyone else. I am just seeing that it’s having a positive effect on me, personally, in that it’s making me realize how much I have taken for granted before this all happened. Now that I am getting into the habit of planning and consolidating trips, I find that it’s a more valuable use of my time in addition to saving resources. That part of the shortage is a blessing. The other 95% of the shortage? Well, I won’t lie, that’s a pain. But, hopefully it will be short-lived.
I found these tips to economize gas mileage on GPW Resources and wanted to share them here.
How to Drive Economically
1. Slow down when possible – driving 55 mph can save up to 10% on gas mileage vs. driving 65 – 70 mph. This is due to wind resistance.
2. If your car has an overdrive gear, use it. Traveling at fast rates in low gears can consume up to 45% more fuel than is needed.
3. Manual shift driven cars allow you to change to highest gear as soon as possible, thereby letting you save gas if you “nurse it along”. However, if you cause the engine to “bog down”, premature wearing of engine parts occurs.
4. Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10%.
5. Drive steadily. Slowing down or speeding up wastes fuel. Also avoid tailgating – the driver in front of you is unpredictable. Not only is it unsafe, but if affects your economy, if he slows down unexpectedly.
6. Think ahead when approaching hills. If you accelerate, do it before you reach the hill, not while you’re on it.
7. Think ahead at stop signs and stop lights – no need to race up to a red light and then jam on the brakes to slow down. Plan to slow down before the light. If you can slow down soon enough to not have to stop at the light, you can save quite a bit a fuel versus starting from a standing start.
8. Stoplights are usually timed for your motoring advantage. By traveling steadily at the legal speed limit you boost your chances of having the “green light” all the way.
9. Regular tune-ups ensure best economy; check owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals. Special attention should be given to maintaining clean air filters… diminished air flow increases gas waste.
10. Remove snow tires during good weather seasons; traveling on deep tire tread really robs fuel!
11. Inflate all tires to maximum limit. For each pound of pressure the tire is under inflated, you consume about 1% more fuel. Make sure you carry in your car an accurate tire gauge and know what the pressure should be. Check your tires at least twice a month and always before, during and after long trips.
12. Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car – extra tires, back seats, unnecessary heavy parts. Extra weight reduces mileage, especially when driving up inclines.
13. During cold weather watch for icicles frozen to car frame. Up to 100 lbs. can be quickly accumulated! Accumulated snow and ice cause tremendous wind resistance. Try and keep your car clean at the carwash when possible..
14. Avoid using roof top carriers – they can cause serious drag on the car and lessen your mileage by up to 15%. Pack it in or leave in behind.
Source: http://www.gaspricewatch.com/new/f-resources.asp