Gasoline prices are soaring as demand increases ahead of spring break. (iStock)
Gasoline prices rose in the last week of February and are likely to continue rising as drivers head out for spring break, according to the latest AAA report. report.
Even as oil prices fell 33 cents to settle at $78.54 per barrel, the national average cost of a gallon of gasoline rose to $3.31 per gallon. The increase in fuel costs is primarily due to increased demand due to reduced supply inventories, AAA said.
Gas demand rose from 8.2 million barrels per day to 8.47 million barrels per day, while inventories fell by 2.8 million barrels to 244.2 million barrels, according to Energy Information Administration (EIA) data.
“As we enter the spring break season, gas prices historically rise in March and April due to increased demand,” said AAA spokeswoman Aisha Diaz. “Moderate temperatures increase road trips, and this time of year tends to be a precursor to the summer driving season.”
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Gas prices rose the most in these states.
Gas prices for motorists vary across the country, with some states averaging higher prices than others. These states have seen the greatest changes in pump prices.
- Oregon (+22 cents)
- Wisconsin (+17 cents)
- Washington (+16 cents)
- Michigan (+14 cents)
- Illinois (+13 cents)
- Indiana (+13 cents)
- Minnesota (+11 cents)
- California (+11 cents)
- Ohio (-11 cents)
- Idaho (+10 cents)
The most expensive markets for gas in the country include the following 10 states:
- California ($4.74)
- Hawaii ($4.70)
- Washington ($4.08)
- Nevada ($3.98)
- Oregon ($3.82)
- Illinois ($3.64)
- Alaska ($3.55)
- Pennsylvania ($3.49)
- Washington DC ($3.42)
- Arizona ($3.41)
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Tips to improve fuel efficiency
GasBuddy says drivers on the go this spring break can save money by cutting back on fuel costs. report. Optimizing your vehicle for gasoline consumption is one way he saves money on gas. Here are five common mistakes drivers make that reduce fuel efficiency.
Inflate your tires properly
Maintaining proper tire pressure can prevent damage to your car and improve your car’s fuel efficiency. One way to ensure this is to check your tire pressure regularly.of US Department of Energy Low tire pressure has been proven to reduce a car’s fuel economy, with each psi of tire pressure expected to reduce fuel economy by 0.4%.
Use your air conditioner slowly
To save money on your road trip, try cracking the windows instead of cranking up your car’s air conditioning. Using AC can increase fuel consumption both when driving and idling.according to to EPAUsing AC can reduce fuel economy by up to 25% in worst-case conditions.
carry lighter loads
The weight of your car can also have a big impact on your gas bill. The heavier the car, the more energy it takes to move it. Weight can also increase a car’s rolling resistance, the force created by friction as the car’s wheels roll over the road. Lighten the load you’re carrying so you can move your vehicle with less force.
Practice stable driving
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, bad driving habits like suddenly accelerating or decelerating can reduce highway fuel efficiency by up to 25%. Every time you drive more than 50 miles on the road, you waste an extra $0.20 in gas.
Take care of your car
Regular car maintenance is very important to improve fuel efficiency. Without regular maintenance, your car won’t run efficiently. Maintain your car regularly and be sure to take care of oil changes and engine lights.
Another way to lower your overall cost of car ownership is to reduce your monthly premiums by purchasing cheaper car insurance. Visit Credible to compare options without affecting your credit score.
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