VIDEO: Gas Myth Busters

As fuel prices soar, American’s wallets run on empty.  And AAA Director, Gregg Laskoski, says from March to May, we typically see the highest prices of the year.

“Its the time when refineries have to ramp up for their summer blended fuel inventory which has to be in the market by early May.” At the same time they have to do that, they’re still supplying much of the Northeast with heating oil.”

So while cutting back seems inevitable, when you do have to fill up, we ask, “Are there any truths to the common urban myths?”

MYTH 1: To get a “true” gallon, fill up in the morning when temperatures are cool… This is true!

When you have high heat and humidity, gasoline expands in density but not in volume.

MYTH 2: To prevent evaporation, fill your tank before it falls below half-full.  This, while only marginally beneficial is also true!

Evaporation does come into play, how much is hard to say.  Experts agree to fill your tank before it dives below a quarter of a tank to preserve your engine, prevent emergencies, and yes, reduce evaporation.

MYTH 3: Pump your gas at a low speed to reduce vapors.  True!

While again it is hard to determine exactly how much you waste, experts note pumping at full-speed can generate vapors essentially releasing some of the gas you are paying for, so use a low-medium speed when you fill up.

MYTH 4: Never fill up when a service station’s supply tanks are being refueled, so you don’t pay for sludge.  It’s true!

When the gasoline is being delivered, chances are you could be getting much of the sludge being stirred up from the bottom, and you don’t want to put that in your tank.

Okay, so yes, these tricks may only save you a few pennies with each trip to the gas station, as gas prices approach $4.00 a gallon, every penny can count.  Check back tomorrow for the proven ways to increase your gas mileage so you make less trips to the pump.