We all feel the sting in our wallets every time we pull into a gas station. But hey, there’s a way to take some of that sting out! You can start saving money every time you fill up your tank. From the moment you start pumping to what you do after, these are several strategies you can employ to keep a few extra bucks in your pocket:
Timing is Everything
Did you know that gas expands and contracts about 1% for every 15-degree change in air temperature? This means that when you fill up your tank when the gas is warm, you’re actually getting less than you think. So, to make sure you are getting the densest gas, fill up early in the day while the tanks are the coolest. If you can’t fill up right when the gas station opens, avoid filling up right after a station has taken a delivery of new gas. Gas delivered right from the refinery is much hotter than it is even sitting in a tank on a hot day.
Avoid Topping Off
Continuing to pump after the nozzle has automatically stopped can really add a lot of unnecessary costs to your fill up. Most nozzles are fitted to take up any extra gas and cycle it back to the pump. Unfortunately, this happens after the meter has recorded the sale, so you’re paying for gas you don’t even get. Instead, once the pump stops put the nozzle back on the tank to ensure you only pay for what you receive.
Tighten Up Your Cap
A loosely fitting gas cap means that those vapors are escaping out of your tank, rather than condensing back into gasoline once the temperatures drops. Taking the time to tighten up your cap after each fill up ensures you’re getting the chance to use the gas you paid for.
Pump Slowly
Most nozzles are set to pump gas at three speeds – slow, medium, and fast. Pumping at high speeds releases more gasoline vapors, which your nozzle pulls back in with a vapor recovery system most pumps are outfitted with. This means you could be paying for more gas than you receive. Pumping at a slower rate releases fewer vapors, which means you’re receiving more of the gas that you paid for.
Choose Your Gas Wisely
If you’ve been filling up with premium gas because your owner’s manual recommends it, your car could do just as well on regular, letting you pocket the difference. Premium gas really only burns better in hot, high performance engines, while most cars run just fine on regular. If your owner’s manual says that premium is required then by all means use it; if it’s only recommended, however, you probably won’t notice a difference if you switch.
Maximize Your Car’s Gas Mileage
In addition to the ways you can save money at the pump, there are a few other things you can do to help maximize your car’s gas mileage and save money in the long run. Regular maintenance, keeping your tires properly inflated, and avoiding unnecessary weight can all help improve your car’s fuel efficiency.
Plan Your Trips
Planning your trips can also help you save on gas. Try to combine errands into one trip, avoid peak traffic times, and take the most direct route possible. Not only will this save you time, but it will also help you save on gas.
Use Gas Apps
There are several apps available that can help you find the cheapest gas in your area. These apps can be a great tool to help you save money at the pump.
Maximize Your Mileage
Gas prices aren’t dropping any time soon, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth every time you fill up. Follow these tips to save money at the gas station, and know you are maximizing how far your car – and your money – can go. So, start implementing these strategies today and drive your way to savings!
