This year, resolve to do something small that makes a big impact for the world. These little actions can make meaningful reductions in your fuel consumption, all while saving you money.
Stop idling
Twelve million gallons of fuel is wasted by idling every day in the U.S. Did you know that with modern cars 10 seconds of idling wastes more fuel than restarting? Turn off your car when you’re stopped so that you don’t use up as much fuel.
And as tempting as it can be to warm your car up ahead of time, it’s costing you money and doing damage to the environment. Of course, on the coldest of days it can be tough, especially if you have kids. You might limit your remote start to five minutes before leaving the house (set a timer to turn it off if things take longer). You can also consider keeping warm blankets in the car (this is also good should the worst happen and you need to stay warm after an accident).
Keep your car maintained
There are a lot of little ways to reduce your fuel use while also taking good care of your car. Airing up your tires properly can improve your gas mileage up to 3%. This is better for your tires, safer for you, and makes it easier to handle the vehicle - especially in wintery conditions.
If you live in a cold part of the country, make sure you’re wiping as much snow off your vehicle as possible, and no matter where you are, unload the junk from your trunk! The lighter the vehicle the better the mileage it will get.
Make your lighting as efficient as possible
This year, you might resolve to change every single lightbulb to LEDs. Use motion sensors, especially if you have outdoor lights. That dimmer? Not just good for setting the mood. Using the lower light setting actually saves energy (and the fuel used to make it). If you need to purchase a major appliance, think about buying one with an ENERGY STAR certification, meaning that it uses less electricity.
Keep in the heat (and cold)
When it comes to heating your home, find ways to insulate and take steps to make your home as efficient as possible. Ensure your storm windows are firmly latched if you have them, and consider other options for insulating drafty windows, such as thermal blinds, window film, or thick curtains.
Many thermostats now have options for nighttime settings, and settings for when you are out of the house. Adjust those to save a little bit of power when you don’t really need it.
Plan strategically
Can you do groceries together with a neighbor? Make a trip by bike or foot instead of with the car? Carpool to school with someone else whose kiddo lives on the way? Find creative ways to reduce your fuel consumption. If you’re going long distances, look into train travel and do the math not just on costs: will flying or driving take more fuel?
Whatever resolution you decide on for the year, for tailored ideas to your own situation, you can check out our quiz here.
