Let’s be honest. With gas prices fluctuating, it’s helpful to know a few smart ways to maximize your fuel efficiency.
Thankfully, someone deep in the petroleum industry—31 years in, to be exact—has dropped some helpful knowledge. These aren’t gimmicks. They’re small changes to how and when you fuel up that can keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your wallet.
1. Fill Up in the Morning
Gas stations store fuel underground, and when it’s cooler outside (like early morning), that fuel is denser. As the day heats up, the gas expands. So that gallon you pump in the afternoon is actually less dense than the same gallon in the morning. Same price, but less product.
2. Pump on the Slowest Setting
When you’re at the pump, you’ll notice the nozzle has three speed settings. Using the slowest one minimizes vapor creation. Why does that matter? Because the pump’s vapor recovery system is sucking some of that fuel vapor right back into the tank. Less vapor equals more liquid fuel in your car.
3. Never Let Your Tank Drop Too Low
Keeping your tank at least half full helps reduce evaporation. More gas means less air in the tank, which means less fuel evaporating into thin air. Seems small, but over time it adds up.
4. Skip the Station if a Fuel Truck Is There
If you pull up and see a fuel truck filling the station’s underground tanks, keep driving. The delivery stirs up sediment at the bottom of the tanks, and that debris could end up in your vehicle. Wait a few hours or stop at another location.
These tips don’t take much effort, but they do add up—especially if you’re filling up often. So next time you’re at the pump, think smart, save big, and keep your ride running smooth.
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