Saving Money on Gas, 5 Simple Ways

Gas Cards

These are difficult times for most of us, at least when it comes to finances. While things are bound to improve eventually, there’s no time like the present to look for ways to cut your household’s expenses. All of us could use a little wiggle room in our budget and one of the biggest parts of most people’s monthly budget after housing is gas.

With the price of gas as high as it is, it’s only natural to want to save money on this important expense. You have probably already reduced your driving as much as possible, but are looking for more ways to stretch your dollar when it comes to filling your tank. Keep reading for five ways to save money on gas  -you’ll make your paycheck go a little farther while doing something for the environment by keeping your fossil fuel consumption down.

1) Fill your tank in the morning or evening when it’s cooler outside. Like every other liquid, gasoline will contract when cooled and expand when heated. Since gas is sold by the gallon (i.e. volume) instead of weight, you can get more gas for your money by buying when temperatures are lower.

2) Start braking a little earlier than usual when approaching a stoplight. You’ll use less gas if you coast up to that red light – the savings won’t be immediately apparent, but this can really add up over the course of a year.

3) Keep your tires fully inflated. Did you know that if your tires are not properly inflated, you can be losing as much as 20% energy efficiency? When your tires are fully inflated you’ll get a lot more mileage to the gallon. Make a habit of checking your tire pressure and your bank account will thank you.

4) Keep your car well maintained. While it’s not exactly cheap to get those annual or semiannual tune-ups, an engine which is in good working order uses gas much more efficiently. This is an investment which will more than pay for itself both in gasoline savings and longer engine life for your vehicle.

5) Get a gas card. Gas cards offer a lot f advantages and savings. When you buy a gas card, you will be able to buy gas at the price it was when you bought the card, even if prices go up! There are often discounts offered with these gas cards too. These cards are a great way to save  a little money on gas

In this recession, you need savings wherever you can find them. The money you save on gas can be used for savings, to cover other expenses, even to reward yourself for your thrift!