Effective ways to reduce fuel bill

Friday, 01 February 2013 00:00 BusinessDay

In our world of rising expenses, there is need to always cut costs where ever the opportunities arise. In a fast moving economy like ours, the bill for fuel is a remarkable component of our budget. Even the National Bureau of Statistics has indicated that cost of purchasing petrol has contributed to the increase in expenditure. So, here are some tips on how to reduce your car fuel consumption, these tips are adopted from Aaron Gold:

Slow down

One of the best ways to save gas is to simply reduce your speed. As speed increases, fuel economy decreases exponentially. You will save a lot of fuel and your journey won’t take much longer.

Check your tire pressure

Under-inflated tires are one of the most commonly ignored causes of crummy MPG. Tires lose air due to time (about 1 psi per month) and temperature (1 psi for every 10 degree drop); under-inflated tires have more rolling resistance, which means you need to burn more gas to keep your car moving. Buy a reliable tire gauge and check your tires at least once a month. Be sure to check them when they are cold, since driving the car warms up the tires along with the air inside them, which increases pressure and gives a falsely high reading.

Check your air filter

A dirty air filter restricts the flow of air into the engine, which harms performance and economy. Air filters are easy to check and change; remove the filter and hold it up to the sun. If you can’t see light coming through it, you need a new one.

Accelerate with care

Slow starts are an obvious fuel-waster but that doesn’t mean you should crawl away from every light. If you drive an automatic, accelerate moderately so the transmission can shift up into the higher gears. If you accelerate to speed then have to brake right away, that’s wasted fuel.

Get back to nature

Consider shutting off the air conditioner, opening the windows and enjoying the breeze. It may be a bit warmer, but at lower speeds you will save fuel. That said, at higher speeds the A/C may be more efficient than the wind resistance from open windows and sunroof.

Clean out your car

The more weight your car has to lug around, the more fuel it burns.

Downsize or hybridise

If you are shopping for a new car, it is time to re-evaluate how much car you really need. Smaller cars are inherently more fuel-efficient, and today’s small cars are safer and roomier than ever.

Don’t drive

If you can avoid driving, you will save fuel. Take the BRT, and consolidate your shopping trips. Walking or biking is good for your wallet and your health. And before you get in your car, always ask yourself: “Is this trip really necessary?”