No one likes to pay exorbitant fees at the pump especially here in Alberta. But driving and spending money on gas is just a fact of life for many of us. Even if you live in the city you likely have a vehicle and you’re likely spending a lot of time driving to work shuttling kids around heading out to enjoy your weekend… that’s a lot of driving! However there are things you can do to help – so here’s how to get better gas mileage in Alberta.
1. Lay Off The Brakes
We’re talking about avoiding braking altogether – but constant braking and acceleration contributes to poor gas mileage. In fact this is probably the number one contributor to your poor fuel efficiency. If you’re driving in rush hour traffic in Calgary or Edmonton this is likely part of your commute. If you leaveadequate spacebetween you and the car in front and avoid abruptly braking (unless necessary) your performance will begin to increase.
2. Learn to Live with the Heat or Cold
Your car’s AC needs power which means you use more gas. If you keep the AC off you’re helping your engine to not have to work as hard which in turn enhances the car’s overall fuel efficiency. That doesn’t mean you should swelter or freeze but consider opening your windows or using the fans without AC instead during Alberta’s more moderate days.
3. Pump up the Tires
You definitely do not want to overinflate but by making sure that your tires have the appropriate air pressure you can really improve your fuel efficiency. Again always use caution when adding air to your tires and do not exceed recommended pressure limits. You can find pumps at many gas stations across Alberta or ask your mechanic or dealership to do it for you.
4. Get Rid of Excess Weight
The more you carry the more work your car has to do and the more gas it will use. If your trunk is full unload it. Get rid of what you don’t need to have and you will be surprised at the difference it can make as far as gas mileage.
5. Slow Down
Speeding uses up more gas it’s as simple as that. If you can slow your driving down you stand to save quite a bit on gas money. Not to mention it is much safer in general. You don’t have to go below the speed limit just be more mindful of how hard you press down on that gas pedal. Rapid acceleration burns a lot of gas and you burn extra fuel when you go above 90 km/h.
Unfortunately there is no magic answer for getting optimal gas mileage and cutting down on how much you spend a week on filling your vehicle. But choosing a fuel efficient vehicle and performing regular maintenance helps as do these above steps.