Gas prices in Southern Utah are higher than a hippy in a hot air balloon. So what are you doing to save gas? Here are a few creative ways to save you some green when at the gas pumping machine.  

Coast into your stops: Our competitive calendars seem to have us running faster than we can go so tip number one is pretty simple: coast into your stops. When was the last time you watched someone speed up to a stop sign? Remember the old military adage, “Hurry up and wait”? Yeah, don't do that.
 
Photo by Larkin Hammond on Unsplash
Photo by Larkin Hammond on Unsplash
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  • Smooth Acceleration: When taking off from a stop, unless you are a favorite in the next drag racing heat, take it easy on the gas. If you have an indent under your gas peddle....you might be a gas waster, Thanks Jeff Foxworthy.  
  • Keep air in your tires: OK, maybe a better tip is to keep the right amount of air in your tires. This can be a little trickier as we get into cooler months. A cold night can compress the air in your tires. Make sure to top them off when your car gives that warning that your tires are low.  
  • Avoid Idling: Many of us love the remote start options in our cars so we can slide into a cozy car cabin but be aware that this is a gas waster. Any more than a minute of waiting and experts say you will save gas by powering down.  
  • Clean your vehicle: Surprisingly even dirt can slow you down and not just socially. It’s not a huge difference, but it can create drag which uses more gas. Be aware of any additions, like luggage holders, car eyelashes, or driving with your doors open that could increase drag. Drag equals gas usage. 
  • Lighten your load: Much like drag, weight can slow you down necessitating more gas to move you down the road. Use this as a solid argument as to why you got your loved one a gym membership for their birthday or as an excuse behind why you can’t give that friend who makes it hard to keep tip #5 a ride.  
  • Is it worth this effort? Well According to the US Department of Energy how you drive could save you up to 30%.

    Obeying the speed limit, accelerating and braking gently and gradually, and reading the road ahead can improve the fuel economy of your vehicle by 15%–30% at highway speeds and 10%–40% in stop-and-go traffic. 

    LOOK: Here are 25 ways you could start saving money today

    These money-saving tips—from finding discounts to simple changes to your daily habits—can come in handy whether you have a specific savings goal, want to stash away cash for retirement, or just want to pinch pennies. It’s never too late to be more financially savvy. Read on to learn more about how you can start saving now. [From: 25 ways you could be saving money today]

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