Understanding Electric What to know about EV batteries
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7 Things
To know before replacing windows
March 2022 A Special Supplement to
Simple strategies To be a more efficient driver
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March 23, 2022 • Benzie County Record Patriot
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What to know about EV batteries
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7 things to know before replacing windows
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Did you know? - EVs, do not require oil The role of engine air filters Signs of engine trouble
Signs a roof needs repair or replacement
Did you know? - Projects are more complex than others Addressing headlight glare
Did you know? - Headlights are an important safety feature Low-cost ways to revamp living areas
Planning ahead is important to a successful renovation Tips for negotiating with contractors
Simple strategies to be a more efficient driver
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March 23, 2022 • Benzie County Record Patriot
Did you know?
D What to know about EV batteries
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lectric cars remain a novelty for millions of people who haven’t yet imagined the day when they’ll cut ties with combustion engines. That day might be coming sooner rather than later, and if it does it will mark the culmination of a history that’s longer than even some ardent auto enthusiasts may realize. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, innovators in Hungary, the Netherlands and the United States considered batterypowered vehicles as far back as the early 1800s. Electric vehicles, or EVs, have gone through some considerable ups and downs since those early days, but reached a significant turning point in 2000, when the Japanese automaker Toyota released the Prius worldwide. The Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid electric vehicle and it paved the way for many of the modern EVs on the road today. Despite the release of the Prius more than two decades ago, motorists may still have many questions about EVs. Perhaps the most common question about EVs concerns their batteries.
How long do EV batteries last?
Individuals may be hesitant to purchase their own EV out of a fear that the battery will not last as long as the standard combustion engine in more traditional, gas-powered vehicles. But the automotive experts at CarFax note that all EV batteries sold in the United States come with warranties that last for no less than eight years or up to 100,000 miles.
What do the warranties cover?
The automotive resource Car and Driver urges drivers considering EVs to read the manufacturer’s battery warranty thoroughly before purchasing an electric car or truck. That’s because some warranties only cover the battery if it completely dies, which is a relatively rare occurrence. However, Car and Driver notes that certain manufacturers, including BMW, Tesla and Nissan, among others, will cover a battery if its capacity drops to 60 to 70 percent. Drivers should still read these manufacturers’ warranties carefully to confirm just what is and isn’t covered regarding their EV batteries.
How long do EV batteries typically last?
The online EV resource EVBox notes that charging a battery will affect its lifespan. That might scare some prospective EV buyers off, as various sources indicate the average cost of a new EV battery is around $5,500, though some can cost as much as $15,000. But the loss of charging capacity is perhaps not as big a concern as drivers might think. Plug In America, a nonprofit educational organization that advocates the use of plug-in vehicles, reports that a Tesla Model S loses only around 5 percent of its original capacity over the first 50,000 miles, and the depletion rate slows down after that. Since many individuals prefer to replace their vehicles long before they reach the 100,000 mile marker, it’s reasonable to expect EV buyers will never have to replace the batteries on their plug-in cars or trucks. There’s still much for drivers to learn about EVs. Understanding how EV batteries work and how long they should continue to do so may calm some of the more common concerns consumers have about plug-in vehicles.
rivers who aren’t fond of taking their vehicles in for routine oil changes may want to consider electric vehicles the next time they’re in the market for a new car or truck. According to Kia, electric vehicles, or EVs, do not require oil. Oil is necessary to lubricate the various moving parts in combustion engines. While synthetic oil and other advancements have increased the recommended oil change intervals from the once-standard 3,000 mile recommendation, manufacturers still advise drivers to get oil changes around every 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. No such maintenance is required with EVs because they consume batteries while running on electric motors. EV drivers will have to monitor certain fluids, though. Coolant is necessary to prevent batteries from overheating, and that can be periodically checked at drivers’ discretion and during routine maintenance performed at an auto body shop. Drivers also can monitor and refill windshield washer fluid as necessary. Brake fluid in EV cars also needs to be replaced periodically, and Kia notes that its EVs need fresh brake fluid after running about 25,000 miles.
Benzie County Record Patriot • March 23, 2022 can be salvaged, especially if they are not damaged and only moderately drafty. Replacing panes, sash cords, weather stripping, and even glazing may be less expensive than replacing a window. Plus, older homes with attractive windows complement one another. To keep energy bills down, think about adding insulation to the attic and basement — which is a good idea even if you are replacing windows.
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5. The wrong windows can adversely affect home value.
things to know before replacing windows
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he decision to replace windows often comes down to aesthetics and necessity. Drafty windows can reduce energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC systems to work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The harder the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will pay in energy costs. Old windows also may be points of entry for water and insects. Despite the importance of windows, Money magazine advises that new windows make up only a fraction of the home’s total exterior “envelope,” resulting in only about 5 to 15 percent of total energy savings. But there are still plenty of reasons to invest in new windows.
1. Vinyl or aluminum may be best. Lumber is
farmed rather quickly today and solid wood products may not stand up to elements as well as wood used a half-century ago. To avoid rot, vinyl windows often are an affordable and durable choice. Homeowners also have the option of wood windows with aluminum cladding, which are long-lasting.
2. Moisture problems indicate windows need to be replaced.
Condensation that shows up as fogging between double-pane windows or on the inside of windows indicates that the windows are starting to fail. If installing a vapor barrier in the basement or crawl space, ventilating properly when showering or cooking, or using a dehumidifier indoors does not remedy the situation, it might be time to replace windows.
3. Windows add curb appeal.
Beyond functionality, replacement windows immediately update the look of the home and can improve curb appeal since they are one of the most prominent features on the exterior of a home. If a house needs an update, replacing windows and can be a quick and affordable update.
4. Consider other energy-efficient upgrades. Sometimes older windows
The National Association of Realtors says
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homeowners get about 73 percent of their replacement window investment back when they resell a home. But choosing the wrong windows might lower the value of the home. It’s important to match the look of the original windows, including window material and the divided light pattern (the number of panes in each window) with the original windows.
6. Think about soundproofing, too. When upgrading windows, also think
about how certain windows can cancel out noises and make homes more soundproof. Some windows can help reduce outdoor distractions like leaf blowers or lawn mowers.
7. Proper installation is key to longevity. Replacement windows
are only as good as their installation in many cases. Poor installation and orders of standard rather than custom sized windows could result in poor fitting and seals. Homeowners should carefully vet and review window replacement contractors to find the best professionals for the job.
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March 23, 2022 • Benzie County Record Patriot
The role of engine air filters
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ehicle engines include complex parts that work in concert to ensure that the car functions properly. When servicing their cars and trucks, vehicle owners may look to many parts of the engine yet overlook a relatively mundane, albeit important, component: the air filter. All cars come equipped with air filters, which are essential to optimum engine operation. The engine air filter is the first line of defense against outside air that is being brought in to the car engine to be burned along with fuel to produce combustion. The filter will capture particulate matter that would normally enter a vehicle’s engine and leave sediment. The automotive resource It Still Runs says dirty air can reduce engine efficiency and cause damage over time. Dirty air can compromise the air/fuel mixture that is involved in combustion. Any debris that enters portals in fuel injection systems can compromise that system. In addition, debris can cause fuel to burn less
Signs of engine trouble efficiently, resulting in poor fuel economy.
An engine filter is not the only filter in a vehicle. There also is a cabin air filter. The cabin air filter does not affect engine performance, but it does help to provide clean air inside of the vehicle. The cabin air filter helps to keep dirt, pollen, bacteria, exhaust gases, and dust from entering the HVAC system. It also can be a barrier against bugs, leaves and other particles from clogging up the system. The cabin filter also helps to keep the air fresh and odor-free. A clogged filter can result in diminished heating and air conditioning performance, so it’s important to change this filter as well.
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diminish as the car’s computer checks that all systems are working correctly. If the “check engine” light remains on, it is notifying the driver of a problem. The issue could be a faulty sensor or something more ominous. Mechanics can hook the vehicle up to a scanning tool that runs diagnostics to “speak” to the car’s computer helping to diagnose the issue, advises How Stuff Works.
There is no simple answer as to how often an engine air filter should be changed. It largely depends on miles driven and the environment in which the vehicle is used. Those who reside in rural or dusty areas will need to replace air filters more frequently. Drivers also can install air filters more suited to dusty areas.
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ithout a functioning engine, a car is just an expensive driveway ornament. Engines keep vehicles moving, much in the same way the heart provides oxygen and blood to keep the human body running strong. Modern engines are a mixture of mechanical moveable parts and complex computerized systems. Many different parts work in unison to keep a vehicle moving. Engines can be challenging for experienced mechanics, not to mention downright confusing for people who are unfamiliar with what’s under the hood of their vehicle. But any vehicle owner can learn to recognize certain signs that an engine may be on its last legs.
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Excessive smoke
An engine in trouble typically has to work harder. That results in heating up more quickly, which can lead to overheating. Smoke may be white, blue or black (each color indicates a separate problem). Any sign of excessive smoke is a reason to consult a mechanic.
Warning lights
The dashboard tends to light up when the car is started, and one by one those lights
Strange noises Popping or tapping noises may suggest that gasoline is igniting prematurely in the combustion chambers of the cylinders. Grinding noises may tell you that the starter motor needs to be changed or replaced. Transmission issues also can produce grinding sounds. Generally speaking, if the car is making sounds it does not normally make, schedule a service appointment.
Poor fuel efficiency Engine trouble may cause the car or truck to consume gas faster than normal, according to the car information site Carsoid. The engine or one of its components may be faulty. Problems could arise in the spark plugs, oxygen sensor or fuel injector.
Metal flakes If you change your own oil, check to see if the oil has metal flakes, or ask the technician if he or she sees flakes when you bring it in for service. Flakes indicate the engine is creating too much friction and slowly chipping away at the components.
Trouble starting Failure to turn over is a clear indicator of engine troubles. It could be the battery, but if the battery is new, look for other causes. Engine trouble does not generally come out of nowhere. Certain signs can warn drivers their vehicles need servicing.
Signs a roof needs repair or replacement
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any homeowners believe a roof is a once-in-a-lifetime investment. But roof damage can force homeowners to replace a roof regardless of how much time has lapsed since the roof was installed. The average life span of a roof depends on when the roof was installed and the materials it is made from. According to Central Homes Roofing, three-tab shingles may last between 10 and 15 years, architectural shingles can endure for 15 to 20 years, and tile may last between 35 and 50 years. RPS Metal Roofing indicates a metal roof may last as long as 70 years. However, climate and color of the roof also will affect its longevity. Homeowners would be wise to consider these factors when determining if a roof is in need of repairs or replacement. • Roof age: The age of the roof is a major factor in determining if it will need to be replaced or if repairs can be made to isolated damage. Individuals who live in neighborhoods where neighbors are now replacing roofs will likely find it is time to consult a roofing company. Homeowners also can check to see if they have any receipts that indicate the roof’s installation date so they have an idea about its age.
• Grain in gutters: Roofing shingles are designed to overlap, and sealant keeps them steady. Friction, weather and atmospheric changes can impact sealant and cause degradation. Gutters with grainy material in them could indicate worn out sealant and shingles. • Ridge damage: Ridges are spots where two separate areas meet and often are important to the structural integrity of the roof. If the roof ridge is showing signs of wear, it could be time to repair or replace it.
Benzie County Record Patriot • March 23, 2022
Architectural shingles can endure for 15 to 20 years. Tile may last between 35 and 50 years. RPS Metal Roofing indicates a metal roof may last as long as 70 years • Curled shingle edges: If shingle tabs are curled or cupped, the shingles may need to be replaced. But if curling is extensive, a whole new roof may need to be installed. • Bald spots or lost portions of the roof: Missing granules and missing shingles are reasons to consult a pro for a roof evaluation. • Leaks indoors: Homeowners who find dark streaks or moisture in the attic may discover that water is penetrating the roof underlay. Water often comes in around chimney flashing. Other water signs are blistering and bubbling in walls. • Incoming light: Look up through the attic and see if any light is coming through the roof, which may indicate there are cracks or holes in the roof. • Aesthetics: If a homeowner doesn’t like the look of the roof from a design standpoint, a replacement also may be warranted. Roofs can last many years, but the presence of certain signs indicates replacement or repairs will be necessary.
Did you know?
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ertain home improvement projects are more complex than others. Projects that involve working with gas lines are among the most complicated and risky undertakings, and even seasoned do-it-yourselfers are urged to leave such tasks to certified professionals. According to Angi, the average cost to move a gas line is between $15 and $25 per linear foot, and homeowners can expect to pay an additional $1 to $10 per linear foot for pipe materials. A natural gas plumber can install, extend and repair natural gas lines and ensure that the project is completed safely, on time and within homeowners’ budgets. Angi notes
that the average cost to move a gas line is between $250 and $750 for the whole project. However, if a buried line must be excavated, that cost could run into the thousands of dollars.
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Addressing headlight glare
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eadlight glare becomes dangerous when visibility is impaired to a point where the risk of accidents is heightened. Glare is a growing problem for many modern drivers due to the increased use of light emitting diodes in headlights. Driving at night is challenging because pedestrians, cars and other obstacles are difficult to see once the sun sets. However, a study from the U.S. Department of Transportation found that 88 percent of drivers noticed LED and HID headlight glare, with more than 30 percent saying the glare is “disturbing.” While LED lights may not actually be brighter, their “cool”
spectrum make them appear so. Studies have found that blue and white light tends to hit people’ s eyes harder, especially at night. In addition, human eyes do not adjust to changes in lighting very quickly, according to Pierre Paul Driving School in New York. The older a person gets, the longer his or her eyes will take to adjust to changes in lighting. In fact, it can take up to seven seconds to recover from the blinding glare of headlights. That’s enough blindness to swerve off the road or potentially hit something.
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While glare can be problematic, drivers can take certain steps to make it safer to drive at night.
• Clean the windshield. Dirt and grime found on the windshield can refract light and make glare worse. Therefore, clean all windows and mirrors thoroughly, inside and out. • Repair scratches and cracks. Glare can be exacerbated by any imperfections in the windshield. Repair cracks or scratches promptly.
• Get a vision and health check. Changes to vision can impact how glare affects certain individuals. Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness, also known as nyctalopia. Eye shape changes, including a condition called keratoconus, can affect vision. Cataracts and diabetes also impair vision. Visit with a primary care physician as well as an eye doctor to diagnose conditions that can make night vision worse.
• Change your line of sight. Do not look directly into oncoming headlights. Rather, look slightly down and to the right side of the road so that you’re not focusing on the beams.
• Get glare-resistant coatings on eyeglasses. Speak with an optician about eyeglasses with anti-glare coating. This will significantly reduce the amount of glare. VisionCenters.com says standard plastic lenses reflect around 8 percent of the light that reaches glasses, while highindex lenses reflect up to 12 percent of available light. Anti-glare coating allows 99.5 percent of available light to reach the eyes, essentially eliminating glare. Those who don’t wear eyeglasses can purchase specific anti-glare glasses to wear in highglare conditions, such as when looking at computer and phone screens. • Flip the rearview mirror to “night” mode. This will make it appear as though lights coming from behind are dimmer.
These are some of the steps to take when glare becomes problematic while driving at night. Taking breaks also can help eyes recover.
Did you know?
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ully functional headlights are an important safety feature on cars and trucks. While halogen bulbs were common in the past, modern vehicles now largely utilize high intensity discharge (HID) bulbs or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). HIDs work similarly to fluorescent bulbs by passing an electric current through an inert gas in a glass cylinder. LEDs are semiconductors that emit light when powered by an electric current. LEDs and HIDs are now used because they are efficient and last longer. These headlights quickly replaced halogen bulbs as the industry standard, but many drivers have lamented that they are increasingly feeling blinded by headlight glare. In March 2020, the Ford Motor Company recalled several F-150s because their headlights were too bright. According to Donut Media, an American automotive content brand, the typical halogen bulb puts out 1,300 lumens of light and the average LED emits 1,600 lumens. But HIDs can emit up to 3,000 lumens. Popular Science magazine also says HID and LED headlights are a different color temperature than halogens. These newer lights put out whiter and bluer light. Human eyes are very sensitive to blue light, so these blue-white bulbs automatically seem brighter even when they’re not emitting more lumens, according to PowerBulbs reports. Headlights also are supposed to be positioned correctly at a certain angle to reduce blinding glare. People who replace their own bulbs may not be doing so correctly.
Benzie County Record Patriot • March 23, 2022 Reupholster instead of replace furniture.
There’s no need to throw away quality furniture if the fabric is the only thing impeding design. New upholstery or even a slipcover can update designs.
Conquer clutter.
Low-cost ways to revamp living areas H ome improvement projects require substantial financial investment. But just because a homeowner wants to bring a fresh look indoors doesn’t mean he or she has to break the bank along the way.
Living rooms are some of the most frequently used spaces in a home, and they can use an update from time to time to stay on trend or to make the area more functional for a changing family dynamic. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for breathing new life into living room designs.
Establish the budget.
Homeowners should figure out how many dollars they can designate to a living room makeover before purchasing supplies or hiring out the work. Figure out the scope of the remodel, visit stores or suppliers to price out materials, get estimates from contractors, and then plan for some unforseen circumstances along the way to determine if this type of renovation is affordable. If not, scale things back until the project more closely aligns with your budget.
Change the paint color.
Lighter and brighter colors are on trend. A can or two of paint can do wonders for updating a space without a large financial commitment. Pair that new paint color with new window coverings and complementary throw pillows to pull the theme together with minimal expense.
Update the flooring.
Tired, outdated carpeting or other flooring can use an overhaul. While solid hardwood flooring may be preferable, there are many types of laminate flooring that mimic the looks of popular wood colors and styles for a fraction of the cost. Plus, many are sold at home improvement retailers and even at warehouse clubs or online for reasonable prices. Laminate flooring also may be a potential DIY job for a skilled homeowner, saving even more money.
Introduce a fireplace
Fireplaces were once hot commodities, but that popularity waned in the 1970s and 1980s. Homeowners with chimneys may discover a fireplace was boarded over and the bare bones still exist that can be renovated to bring back character. There also are ventless freestanding units that are quite affordable that can mimic the look of a built-in fireplace.
Rather than adding something to the living room, remove clutter to give the room a more airy feel. This can instantly change the look of the room. Use cord covers to tame plugs for electronics and remove unnecessary furniture from the room.
Improve lighting.
Another easy and often inexpensive fix is to change lighting fixtures, including using brighter, more energy efficient LED bulbs, and to assess lighting needs to eliminate dark corners of rooms that can make the space seem drab. Living room spaces in need of an update often can benefit from improvements that go easy on the wallet.
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Planning ahead is important to a successful renovation
Tips for negotiating with contractors
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emodeling projects are significant undertakings. Homeowners must consider a host of variables before any such project can begin. While planning ahead may take time, it is essential to ensuring successful completion of a renovation project. Consider these pre-renovation planning pointers to help any job go smoothly.
Determine your motivation for renovating
Renovation projects often involve balancing needs and wants, and determining if a project is a necessity or a luxury can set the timeline and course of the project. Is the roof leaking? If so, immediate action is necessary. Could the kitchen be a bit more functional? If the kitchen is still manageable, a homeowner may be able to wait a little bit to get better prices on appliances or contracting services. Separating needs from wants helps homeowners map out a viable timeline that maximizes productivity and affordability.
Get professional advice
Many homeowners are under the impression that doing the work themselves can save a considerable amount of money. This may be the case for homeowners with renovation experience. But by and large, professional contractors are an asset to any renovation. They can provide a realistic overview of the project, map out projected costs, point out areas that could be troublesome, and may have industry contacts that can keep supply costs low. Even if a homeowner will do a portion of the job, a contractor can do the bulk of the work and keep the project on budget.
Get necessary permits Permits are designed to ensure the work is being done to code and in a safe manner. However, they are not without additional costs and processing time, and that can cause some homeowners to skip this step. According to the home information site The Spruce, building permits cost anywhere from $400 to about $2,200 for new home construction. Building permits for smaller projects can cost $100 or less, and typically are based on a percentage of the anticipated cost of the project. A permit may be issued the day the application is submitted, while other cities and towns may issue permits up to two or more weeks later. Factor permit fees and processing times into the renovation plan. If it comes to light a homeowner did work without a required permit, he or she may face penalties; may have to tear out work done to have it inspected or redone; some may be unable to sell a home until permits have been obtained and work has been done to code. Homeowners insurance coverage also may be affected if homeowners do not obtain the proper permits. Other considerations when planning a renovation include writing out a strict budget, gathering inspiration, drawing up to-scale renovation plans, pouring over material reviews, and getting recommendations for reliable professionals to do the job. While not every obstacle can be avoided, planning is a good way to start successfully.
pring is the season for fixing up a home. Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently.
General contractors may be more willing to negotiate for a lower price depending on when their busy season may be. Jobs may slow down in winter, for example.
After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs.
Talk about supplies
Certain contractors are willing to negotiate while others are firm in their prices. However, learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save money on dream renovations.
Even after getting a good bid, you may be able to speak with your contractor about lowering costs even more by choosing less costly supplies. Find out if contractors can source materials from a low-cost supplier. In addition, discuss if you can purchase your own supplies.
Do your homework
Ask to do a portion
Getting the best price typically requires shopping around and not settling on the first bid. Experts recommend getting at least three estimates on the same job — and be sure to let each contractor know that you are soliciting multiple bids. This alone may entice a specific contractor to give you his or her best offer up front. Avoid simply choosing the lowest bid. Look at quality of work, reputation and reviews. If you like a costly contractor more than another, see if that contractor is willing to match a lower bid to win the job.
Pick the right season
As with other industries, home renovation work heats up during certain seasons or times of year.
Be honest with the contractor about your budget and figure out if there is any way for you to do some of the work to lower costs. The contractor can give you jobs that are within your abilities, which can shave dollars off the final price.
Know your rights and laws
Understand the laws governing contract language in your state or province. Contracts should also spell out the change order process so that expectations of changes and costs will be known in advance. These are just some of the tactics homeowners can use when negotiating the price of home remodels or improvements.
Simple strategies to be a more efficient driver
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rivers likely need no reminder that the cost of fuel is high. In November 2021, data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicated the average price per gallon of fuel was $3.39. That marked a seven-year high and an increase of $1.29 in just 12 months.
The good news for motorists is the EIA anticipated that fuel prices would drop considerably in 2022, with estimates suggesting a gallon of fuel will cost an average of $2.88 in the early months of the year. Drivers will no doubt welcome that decline with open arms, but filling up with less costly fuel is not the only way they can save money. Learning how to be a more efficient driver is a great way to improve gas mileage and take some of the sting out of filling up.
• Take it easy behind the wheel. The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy reports that aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 30 percent when driving at highway speeds and 40 percent when driving in stopand-go traffic. Avoid speeding and rapid
acceleration and braking.
• Utilize in-vehicle energy feedback. A recent study from researchers at the Institute of Transportation Studies found that drivers who used driver feedback devices in their vehicles in an effort to save fuel improved their gas mileage by about 10 percent. Many modern vehicles are equipped with such devices, and drivers can learn to use them and reap the rewards with less frequent trips to the filling station.
• Keep cargo off the roof. Rooftop cargo boxes can be convenient when traveling on vacations. However, researchers at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory report that such boxes can reduce fuel economy by a significant percentage depending on where drivers are driving. City drivers with rooftop cargo boxes may experience a 2 to 8 percent decline in fuel economy, while vacationers traveling at interstate speeds may notice a decline as high as 25 percent. Cargo boxes are convenient, but they’re not very aerodynamic, so it’s best to remove them after returning home from
Benzie County Record Patriot • March 23, 2022
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vacation.
• Avoid idling. Idling was once advised to warm up vehicles so they did not stall once they leave the driveway and hit the open road. However, that stalling occurred when cold carburetors could not get the appropriate mix of air and fuel in the engine. But carburetors have long since been replaced by electronic fuel injection systems, negating the need to warm up a vehicle to avoid stalling. The Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy note that modern engines will warm up by being driven and urge drivers to avoid warming up their cars for more than 30 seconds.
High fuel costs make it advantageous for drivers to embrace efficient driving, which can save a substantial amount of money at the gas pump.
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March 23, 2022 • Benzie County Record Patriot
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