Gasoline and Fuel Blues - Solve the Energy Crisis of the 21st Century

Make Your Own Electricity

2008-11-25T15:25:00.000-08:00

Fuel prices are down now, but nobody knows how long it will last. Even the US Department of Transportation warned consumers to get used to high fuel prices. We are in a very unpredictable situation, and it sort of irritates me that problems with fuel price and depending upon unstable countries get a lot of press when fuel is expensive, and then fall away when fuel is cheaper.

But we still see a lot of interest in this: Do It YourSelf Solar Power and Do It Yourself Wind Power. You see, do it yourself solutions solve more problems than just a high price.

They also allow you to produce your own power. I know that anybody who sat in their dark house during the recent storms could appreciate that! Oh sure, people had gasoline generaters, but they were noisy and expensive to run too!

And not everybody knows this, but if you produce more power than you use, you can actually sell power back to the grid! Even if fuel prices are going down, money is still tight these days. Wouldn't it be great to produce enough energy to sell back to the electric company?

Learn more about homemade solar power and homemade wind power.

Grid-Tied Solar Defined

2008-05-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

Sell Energy Back to the Electric Company!

A grid-tied solar energy system can do some great things for you, and the prices of products are dropping into the affordable range. Most grid-tied systems are solar or wind powered, and the choice of product would probably be determined by the space you have, and the climate you live in.

You can use a grid-tied power system to supplement your electricity usage from the power company. But you can also produce enough energy to earn credits from your local electric company, or even to sell power back. Either way you look at it, a grid-tied solar or wind powered system can slash your power bills.

And of course, the obvious benefit is that you can use clean and renewable energy and help keep your planet green!

Learn more about grid-tied solar energy!

Record Gas Prices

2008-03-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

Gas Prices Continue To Soar

Gas prices continue to soar, and experts say that no top is in sight right now. The national motorist association, AA, says that the national average for gasoline prices is 3.27 a gallon, which matches the alltime high set last year.

Several areas of the country are expected to see $4 a gallon this summer, just when families want to pack up and go on vacation. This is expected to put a damper on travel plans, which will affect many segments of the economy.

This is also bound to encourage people to take steps to make their own cars more gas efficient. In reality, many experts say that newer green cars not only save money, but are designed to be safe cars.
This is because safety comes from car design, and not just from tons of steel.

Save the Earth and Save Money On Gas

2008-02-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

It's funny, but sometimes the solutions that save people the most money are also environmentally friendly. I think the reason that more consumers do not use these solutions is that they are just not aware of them. We all tend to think that environmentally friendly solutions cost more money. But this is not always so!

Green Cars Can Be Cheaper

Make Your Car Green: Save Gas and Save Money

Also notice that some of the most environmentally smaller and lighter cars are very safe, and are actually the cheapest cars to insure! It is about the design of the cars, and not all about the tons of steel that go into larger and clunkier cars.

Affordable Home Solar Energy!

2007-06-08T05:30:00.000-07:00

Many people assume that home solar energy is still far in the future, like maybe in an episode of the Jetsons or something! However, you have the opportunity to take some your home power needs "off the grid" right now! Most of the time, home solar energy falls into two categories: electricity and water heating.

Water Heating: Water heaters are often the most common home energy starter project. Swimming pool heaters are a very popular project, though normal hot water heaters are available which either run, or are supplemented by, solar power. Solar water heating is hardly a new concept. Remember jars of "sun tea" where glass jars were set outside to let the sun warm them and brew the tea! We also found an great article from Mother Earth News on a 1970's project for a homemade solar water heater! We actually noticed, that even adjusted for today's dollar, the supplies seemed expensive. Solar project kits and supplies are more available today, and the price is dropping with improved technology and demand.

Another point to consider, besides obtaining free energy from the sun, is that the US government offers tax credits for solar energy.

Solar Electric Power: Many people assume that the equipment for home solar power is so expensive that it just isn't worth thinking about. There will be a considerable investment if you want a complete home solar system installed, but keep a few things in mind. You can purchase kits to take a step by step approach for partial electriciy replacement. You can also purchase a range of affordable batter chargers that run everything from cellpones to laptops, and these chargers don't cost any more than regular chargers do!

Also, remember the tax credits mentioned above. I found many affordable home solar supplies here!

Gas Saving Myths and Tips

2007-05-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

A Yahoo Article On Gas Saving Tips exposed some myths on saving gas. Most additives that promise gas savings really don't do much good and aren't worth the price. Apparently Consumer Reports, the EPA, and even car companies test many of the new products and haven't been excited about any of them.

A website called Gasbuddy.com allos you to enter your zip code and find the lowest area gas prices. Other real tips include proper tire inflation, driving the speed limit, and not letting your car idle needlessly.

Why Buy a Hybrid Car - Fuel Savings, Less Pollution

2006-10-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

Why Buy A Hybrid Car By Ron King
For anyone interested in saving money at the gas pump and helping the environment, the new hybrid cars are an excellent choice. Small and fuel-efficient, hybrids are now being made by more manufacturers than ever.
Although hybrids cost more, and can be hard to find due to high demand, it still pays to choose a hybrid. Consider the following reasons to buy a hybrid next time you are in the market for a new car.
Smaller, More Efficient Engines
The hybrid's fuel efficiency is increased by its small size and the use of lightweight materials. Periodic engine shut-off is another fuel saving feature of the hybrid. When it is stopped in traffic, the hybrid's engine temporarily shuts off. The engine restarts automatically when the car is put back in gear.
Hybrids are powered by the combination of an efficient gasoline engine backed by an electric motor for acceleration. The electric motor is powered by batteries that are recharged automatically by recapturing the kinetic energy usually lost during braking, known as regenerative braking. When the car is slowing down, the electric motor runs backwards, acting as a generator to charge the battery.
With this collection of advanced fuel efficiency features, hybrids can outperform conventional cars in several arenas.
Environmental Friendliness
Another reason hybrids are more environmentally friendly than conventional gas engines is that they idle less and use fuel more efficiently. The hybrid not only gets better gas mileage, it produces less pollution than other, non-hybrid cars. Some hybrids are getting 10 to 20 miles per gallon more than a regular gas engine. They are also capable of reducing harmful emissions by 90%.
Many hybrids use aerodynamic design to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Low rolling tires made of special resistant rubber reduce friction on the road. The high capacity, nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is reliable and available to power the hybrid when needed. Hybrids also use the latest in power-train technology, for integrated power management that contributes to fuel efficiency.
Popularity Enhances Styles And Choices
More makes and models are now being offered as the popularity of hybrid cars continues to escalate. Buyers can now purchase the Honda Civic and Accord, Ford Escape, and Toyota Camry in hybrids. GMC and Chevrolet are currently making 2 hybrid pick-up trucks. In the near future, Saturn, Lexus, Honda, and Chevrolet will make hybrid SUVs available to the public. Chevrolet has plans to offer its Malibu in hybrid form in 2007.
You can get a hybrid that looks like a conventional car, such as the Ford Escape. Or you can choose a hybrid that looks completely different from anything else on the road, such as the Toyota Prius. With so many hybrid cars on the market, there is a style to suit almost everyone.
Tax Incentives Available
People who buy hybrids can get significant tax breaks from the US Federal government through 2006. The amount of your tax break is determined by your tax bracket and when you file. Some states are also starting to offer hybrid car tax breaks as well. Tax breaks backed up over the long run by lower fuel costs make hybrid cars a good buy.
Fuel Efficiency Becomes A Reality
Although most people have been aware of hybrids only in recent years, the technology has actually been around for a long time. Ferdinand Porsche built the first successful hybrid car in 1899. But hybrids first began to catch on in the 1990s when Honda introduced the Insight and Toyota introduced the Prius.
It's been a long wait, but fuel-efficient transportation is finally becoming a reality with the hybrid. As more of these cars take to the road, our air will become cleaner, and our country will be less dependent on foreign sources of oil.

Visit http://www.eco-car4u.com to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer, visit his website at http://www.ronxking.com
Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.
Article Source: http://www.free-articles-zone.com

Save Money on Gasoline

2006-10-02T22:12:00.000-07:00

With today's gas prices now well over $3.00 a gallon in many areas we all need to find ways to cut our fuel costs. I think most would agree we can do a better job cutting our cost with a little effort in how we drive and maintain our vehicles.

First we need to pay close attention to how we drive. Speed I think most would agree is one area we all need to do a better job in. SLOW DOWN. This in itself will increase our mileage a great deal. Another area is using our brakes, when just driving a little slower would get us there just as fast and again save fuel. Be ready when it is your turn at a stop light or sign to start moving, this will save a jack rabbit start which again takes more fuel than a smooth start. By anticipating and being more alert as to what is going on far ahead and being ready when it is time to change lanes, will also add to our fuel savings. Most of these things just take a retraining of ourselves and habits. You might think these little things don't really make a difference, but all added together you will be pleasantly surprised.

Other things to consider include things like using the best route for the time of day we're driving. If for example we could find a route with less stop and go traffic, this would help. Once your engine heats up most will use less fuel, but idling at a stoplight for more than 30 seconds at several stops will cost you. Try to combine errands and trips by planning ahead, instead of say 4 trips a week making only 2 is again a winner. Although most of us like the free feeling of driving our own car, we might take a look at car pooling as another way to save fuel. Most of these things might at first seem like a lot of work, you might be surprised how much more relaxed you feel knowing you are doing a better job driving and are saving money.

Other tips, be sure to turn off the air conditioning when not needed again this could add as much as two miles per gallon to your fuel savings. Proper maintenance is another area that should not be over looked. Keep your engine tuned up, this in it self could be a big fuel saver. You might also want to consider switching to a different brand of motor oil for further fuel saving. For this I would check with the person who does your oil changing, he can explain the different oils that could save you money on your fuel cost.

Keep your tires at the proper pressure. As you make changes in your driving habits and maintenance you might want to keep a log for awhile so you will know how much the change has helped you save fuel. Once you see the savings it will be like a game to see where else you can find ways to cut your fuel cost. I believe many of us out there have accepted the rise in fuel cost as a way of life, let's not settle for that. Things can get better for all of us if we all do what we can to conserve fuel, and save money on gas.
Author Info:

Simple money saving tips and more great ideas on how to save gas are available at http://www.fuelfrugal.com

Refinance A Car Loan

2006-09-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

I just discovered another way to save money on your vehicle - this does not involve saving money on gas though.

You can actually refinance a car loan. Sometime you get a car loan without the best credit - but paying the loan on time improves your credit. This is great - and so other lenders are willing to jump in and pick up the loan. It doesn't cost you anything, reduces your car payments, your interest rate, and sometimes it allows you to skip a payment!

Visit here to find out how to refinance your car loan.

Gas Price is dropping .... for now......

2006-09-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

It's funny....even my kids keep an eye on the gas price signs.

The Washington, DC based Energy Information Agency predicts fairly stable prices though the winter, with an increase next spring. So I wouldn't abandon your plans to increase fuel effeciency. They also don't expect fuel prices to drop down much below what they are right now because of a tight supply/demand ratio.

New Group on Making your own biodegradable fuel

2006-09-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hi,

In my surfing around, I found a Free Yahoo Group on the subject of making your own biodegradable fuel from vegetable oil. Apparently this is a very popular topic for those concerned with the environment, renewable fuel sources, and those on budgets!

YAHOO GROUP ON BIODEGRADABLE FUEL

The biodegradable, vegetable oil fuel is also referenced in an amusing way in the WOMAN WORK BLOG

Gas Price Below $3 a Gallon - This is good news?

2006-08-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

Yeah, U.S. News and World Report came out with a report that the gas price dropped below $3.00/gallon.

Well I guess the news that the gas price has stablized at post-Katrina levels should cheer me up, but it really doesn't.

Keep looking for ways to conserve. I guess that's really the best we, as individual consumers, can do!

Need More Gas Money - Save on Your Auto Insurance

2006-08-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hey! Now BP has Alaska pipeline problems, and we've got more problems affording our fuel and gasoline bills.

One thing that might help is shaving a little money off your auto insurance bill. Here's a blog with lots of insurance tips, PLUS free online quotes. Check out the advice and quotes - it's one thing that's free!

http://researchinsurance.blogspot.com

RESEARCH INSURANCE WEBLOG!

Gasoline Money Saving Tips

2006-07-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

Know-how ways to save:

If you haven’t already, change to synthetic motor oil. It reduces engine friction and can improve gas mileage.
Adding fuel injector cleaner at every oil change will keep injector nozzles clean, and spraying properly, which will create better combustion and deliver maximum power.
Consider installing window film in southern climates, it can reduce cabin temperature as much as 20 degrees; dramatically reducing the need for air conditioning that consumes additional gas. Check local laws on www.gilafilms.com.
After filling up, be sure the gas cap clicks 3 times. Improperly seated gas caps allow 147 million gallons of fuel to vaporize every year in the U.S.
Consider a locking gas cap, but be sure it meets/exceeds your vehicle manufacturer specifications.
Plan your day efficiently. The less trips you have to make, the more you save in fuel.
Buying gas the right way:
Buy gasoline during the coolest time of day—early morning or late evening is best. During these times gasoline is densest. Keep in mind that gas pumps measure volumes of gasoline, not densities of fuel concentration. You are charged according to volume of measurement. *
Know-how ways to drive and save:
Eliminate “jackrabbit starts.” Accelerate slowly when starting from a dead stop.
Traveling at 55 mph produces up to 21% better mileage when compared to 65 - 70 mph.
Maintain momentum everywhere possible. The less inertia your vehicle has to overcome, the less fuel it will use.
Think ahead when approaching hills. If you accelerate, do it gently before you reach the hill, not while you're on it.
Start your engines:
Avoid prolonged warming up of engine, even on cold mornings—30 to 45 seconds is plenty of time.
Don't start and stop engine needlessly. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the same amount of gas as when you start the engine.
Know-how in Advance:
Stoplights are usually timed for your motoring advantage. By traveling steadily at the legal speed limit you boost your chances of having the "green light" all the way.
Regular tune-ups ensure the best fuel economy; check your owner's manual for recommended maintenance intervals. Special attention should be given to maintaining clean air filters and proper tire pressures.
Inflate all tires to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the vehicle; rolling resistance created by low tire pressure can reduce mileage as much as 25%.
Running your vehicle’s air conditioner can reduce fuel economy by 10% to 20%.
Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car. Extra weight reduces mileage, especially when driving up inclines.
Car pools reduce travel monotony and gas expense—all riders chip in to help you buy gas. Conversation helps to keep the driver alert.
During cold weather, remove snow and ice from your vehicle, which otherwise can cause tremendous wind resistance and add up to 100 additional pounds to the vehicle.

More ways to save real money on gasoline....

2006-07-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

O.K. I thought of more than 10 fuel saving tips.

Some of these may seem like common sense, but that's what I'm talkin' about - and besides, sometimes we forget!

11. Use cruise control if you car is equipped with it. It keeps your speed constant.
12. Let the kids ride the school bus insead of driving them to and from school. ha ha! Besides, they'll make friends there, and get more sunshine.
13. Never let you car run while you dash into the store, post office, etc. This seems obvious for so many reasons, but people still do it. Of course, remove babies and small pets from your car because it could get hot - you should do that anyway.
14. Use your air conditioner instead of opening the windows while driving at high speeds. This used to surprise me, but I read it again and again. It's actually more efficent to use the AC than to creat that drag with open windows at high speed. It's more comfortable for those poor people in the back seat too!

10 ways to save money on gasoline

2006-07-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

1. Make sure tires are inflated correctly.
2. Use savings associated with store cards - but make sure to pay the balance as interest can eat up savings.
3. Keep your speeds moderate. 55mph was instated because faster speeds are less efficient on gasoline.
4. Keep your speeds level. Constant braking and acceleration use more gas.
5. Plan your trips so you aren't running back and forth.
6. Keep your car tuned up and running its best.
7. When possible use alternatives - walking, biking (healthy stuff), or taking mass transit. I know I live in city where the mass transit is not that good.
8. carpools are good for you.
9. Keep your car clean - weird I know - but grime can actually slow you down a bit.
10. Gar top carriers can restrict the flow of air, and turn your car into a guzzler.

More Later.....

SEE MY GAS SAVINGS WEBSITE!

The Magic Gas Pill Crazy

2006-05-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

APPARENTLY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE STATE OF TEXAS HAS A RESTRAINING ORDER ON BIOPERFORMANCE - THE FUEL SAVING OPPORTUNITY OF A CENTURY. SORRY ABOUT THAT - WE ALL LIVE AND LEARN. ANYBODY WANT A GREAT GAS AND FUEL RELATED DOMAIN???? LOL! I DO NOT THINK I WILL BE PROMOTING ANY GASOLINE PILLS! I GOT CALLED BY AN ETHOS DISTRIBUTOR ALMOST IMMEDIATELY, BUT I GUESS I'LL LEAVE MLM TO OTHERS.

I had to ask, if these products really help, why doesn't the gas station or Wal-Mart already sell them? I mean, c'mon - you can buy products like STP treatments their - why not Ethos or Bio Performance. Well, of course the marketers answers don't make sense. They say it's because they want to help a lot of people make money - YEAH RIGHT!

Gasoline Blues - What about that fuel pump?

2006-05-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

AHHH! It's killing me! I have to fill up my 26 gallon tank at least once a week. I'm really getting nervous here, and cutting back on my business. To start off, look at this website for some tips.

http://www.gasmileagesecretsrevealed.com/

I'll follow up later with some serious tips and news about fuel prices: