"Consumers are already strapped for cash and rising gas prices will continue to put a small dent in the recovery process. We have come up with the five most practical answers to saving you money on gas without having to change your driving habits."
The Incredible Bulk
Most people purchase fuel 40 to 50 litres at a time (or 8 to 12 gallons for Americans) and only when they are running on empty. But buying in bulk could create substantial savings for Canadians who can easily store their gas in their garages or basements. The average person uses roughly 3,000 litres of gas annually. Even saving just one penny a litre would save $30 annually. Another added benefit is convenience. Instead of waiting in lines, you can easily fill up at home. It also allows you to buy your gas at today's price and not unknown future prices.
Take Advantage of Sales
As we approach the end of winter, many gas stations will often have sales trying to get rid of last season's outdated gas. Looking for these sales, combined with bulk-buying, could save you hundreds of dollars a year. Don't forget to go to the back of the gas station to find hidden deals. Many outlets hide their gems in the back which are often marked down significantly.
Damaged Goods
Nobody likes their goods to be damaged with chips, scratches, and dents, but you can take advantage of these products and receive heavy discounts. Make sure that these damages are aesthetic only and will not inhibit the performance of the gas or your car, which could ultimately cost you more in the end. Find gasoline with strange odours or discolouration. These traits will have no impact on efficiency or performance. Do not buy gasoline with additional double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, as this tends to be more reactive.
Internet Prices vs. Market Prices
97 per cent of gas stations in North America are not owned by gas companies. Instead, they are owned by individuals just like you or me. They are the ones that set fuel prices, but these independent owners will soon face cheaper competitors. Amazon.com says it will start selling fuel online at discounts and continues to offer free shipping when users spend more than $25. Many refiners like Petro Canada and Imperial Oil (Esso) have also started selling online. By purchasing directly from the supplier, you can save hundreds per year. Prices are also equal to all parts of the country, so those in Ontario will be paying Alberta prices! That's a savings of roughly 10 cents a litre.
Plant a Gas Garden
By growing your own gas in your backyard, you can save thousands of dollars per year. Buying seeds and tending to them can also help with your health. By choosing to grow your gasoline organically, you will also know that nasty chemicals were not sprayed into your fuel to kill insects or extend pump-life. For many living in apartment complexes or have small backyards, consider having a community garden. These types of gardens have been proven to increase the value of home equity and neighbourhood safety.
Gasbuddy.com says that these five new methods are the most practical solutions to saving money on gas. However, if any of these methods are not viable in your community, they say that drivers should adopt traditional methods, such as carpooling, driving less, taking public transit, bicycling, and walking to short destinations.
Warning: Do not store gas or fuel in garages or in basements or your home. This is a fire hazard and many local bylaws prohibit the storage of open gasoline to more than 20 or 30 litres.
Do not pour gasoline into your garden or backyard as this poses serious health risks.
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