06/15/2008

News / Department of Consumer Protection Offers Tips to Save on Gasoline Costs

PRESS RELEASE
Department of Consumer Protection Jerry Farrell, Jr.
165 Capitol Avenue Commissioner
Hartford, CT 06106
Media calls: 860-713-6022
Date: May 30, 2008
Department of Consumer Protection Offers Tips to Save on Gasoline Costs
HARTFORD, May 30 -- The Department of Consumer Protection is reminding drivers to inflate their tires to optimal levels for best performance and fuel economy, and is offering additional tips to help motorists achieve maximum mileage per gallon.
“As we enter the peak motor travel season, every bit of fuel conservation can make a difference in how much we spend,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr. said. “I want to remind consumers that inflating their tires to optimal pounds per square inch -- or PSI -- as instructed by the car manufacturer is one of the easiest and best things they can do to protect their safety and their wallet.”
With tires at the recommended inflation pressure, cars use less fuel. Recommended inflation pressure is printed in the owner's manual, on a label frequently found in the glove box, or near the door latch on the driver's side. Regularly inflating tires to their maximum inflation pressure, shown on the side of the tire, is not recommended and can be dangerous. Measure tire pressure when tires are cold, before you drive on them.
“Tire inflation is effective and best of all, it’s free,” Farrell said.
By law, all licensed retail gasoline dealers in Connecticut must provide to the public at no cost, an air compressor for the purpose of tire inflation during their operating hours. In addition, they must also conspicuously post a notice telling the public that the free air compressor is available for their use.
Farrell noted that several years ago, some stations opted to install coin-operated air compressors. These, however, are presumed to serve the public after normal operating hours, and do not relieve the stations of their obligation to provide free air during their operating hours. Stations that have only coin operated machines available for public use must provide free coins or tokens to persons needing tire inflation during operating hours.
Other fuel saving tips:
• Plan and combine driving routes so that you can travel at constant speeds and save miles. On long journeys, try to avoid rush hours; travel when traffic is light. Cruise control may be a fuel saver if used for a prolonged period of time. Overall, drive more slowly; the faster you go, the more gasoline the car uses.
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DCP/ Page 2
Gasoline Saving Tips, May 30, 2008

• Before a long trip, find out if there are any road construction projects on your planned route and avoid them. Stops and starts waste both valuable vacation time and gasoline.
• An out-of-tune car uses up to 8% more fuel. Service your car’s engine according to its maintenance schedule and before any long journey. Avoid extra weight; take only what you need and if possible, keep luggage inside the vehicle to prevent wind resistance.
• Check out online resources for motor fuel prices, such as www.gasbuddy.com.
• If you are looking to purchase or lease a new car consider a hybrid, or at least purchase the most fuel efficient vehicle possible. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for information on fuel efficient vehicles.
• Additional fuel efficient driving tips can be obtained at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/choosing.shtml. Information on tax incentives for hybrids is available at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxcenter.shtml.
“As consumers, our best weapon against high gasoline costs is our strong and sustained effort to conserve wherever possible,” Farrell said.
-end-
http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325090

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