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Here's how to save money, get the most of your gas tank in metro Atlanta

With gas prices on the rise with the return of the gas tax in Georgia, you might want to know how to save extra at the pump.

ATLANTA — As gas prices rise in Georgia after Gov. Kemp's gas tax suspension ended, drivers may be scrambling to find the cheapest gas in metro Atlanta.

The average price in the metro is up 31 cents in one week, and the average price of premium gasoline in Atlanta is now close to $4 a gallon.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) said unless your car's manufacturer recommends premium fuel, there is no benefit.

Here are ways to make your gas tank last longer:

Clean out your trunk

Before you head out, it might be a good idea to clean out your trunk first as traveling light can save you money

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an extra 100 pounds in your car reduces your fuel efficiency by 2%.

Make sure your tires are fully inflated

Tires that are low on air create resistance, so your engine has to work harder.

The Department of Energy estimates that keeping your tires at the recommended pressure can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%.

Avoid idling

Unnecessary idling can burn up to a half-gallon of fuel per hour, the Department of Energy said.

AAA recommends drivers turn off their engine if they are not using their car for more than a minute. 

Many newer cars have automatic shutoff features that do the thinking for you.

Don’t engage in excessive speeding

According to a study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, driving 55 miles per hour instead of 50 miles per hour is like paying an additional 24 cents a gallon for gas.

Finally, avoid quick starts and hard stops while driving. 

The Department of Energy says aggressive driving can lower your gas mileage by up to 30% on the highway and 40% in town.

   

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