My dad is a fairly typical guy. And our conversations are fairly typical too … he loves to talk about the weather, complain about politics and, lately, gripe… (incessantly!)… about gas prices.
While he doesn’t “buy” all of my environmental beliefs and commitments, it gave me quite a bit of pleasure to let him know (following that on-going “gas price rant”) that I could provide him with some great tips to save green and BE green. (*insert “annoyed-Dad-grumble” here!*)
Here are the steps I shared with him. Even for the biggest naysayer, there are little things we can all do to impact the environment less, AND save some cash on fuel. (Imagine, I got to tell my DAD how to drive, for a change!):
- Use the cruise – hitting that little button burns less fuel and can increase your mileage by 15%, simple as that.
- Maintain it – a well-maintained vehicle actually saves gas and creates less pollution because it runs more efficiently.
- Keep your tires properly inflated – this also affects fuel efficiency and emissions.
- Clean out your trunk – all that extra stuff you’re carting around in the back adds more weight and reduces your fuel efficiency.
- Avoid idling – did you know this consumes more fuel than when you’re actually driving, so don’t warm your car for 15 minutes and shut it off when you can.
- Skip drive-thrus – they’re also an “idle nightmare”, and (contrary to belief) restarting it does NOT use more gas.
- Keep your speed steady and stop flooring it – this is the reason cruise control is more efficient, and flooring it for just one second actually causes a burst of CO2 emissions equal to 30 minutes of normal driving.
- Stay the speed limit – for every 5 mph over 60 it’s like paying 20 cents more per gallon of gas because it burns faster (emissions!).
- Consider telecommuting for your job once a week – if it’s possible and you never asked your employer, consider it… they may say yes! Other option, carpool with a local work pal.
- Park it – imagine that! Use a little bit of foot power and walk, or get out your bike and pedal away! It’s free and there are absolutely zero emissions!
If you’re looking for a new car, the EPA offers a guide to the best car choices to meet your needs.
Now, I’m not suggesting you miff-off your dad and tell him how to drive, but he might just be impressed with your brilliance when you share some little tips to save some (green) gas money!