During the winter we are trying to find ways to live a sustainable lifestyle while dealing with the elements and saving money. Heating costs are ever rising and anything you can do to help stick to your budget is helpful. One of the major winter expenses people incur has to do with driving. Yes, taking public transit is a more eco-friendly solution, but for those not living in an urban center this is not always a reliable means of transportation.

Image Credit: newwr.ca

Reducing consumption will decrease your carbon emissions and help preserve fossil fuels by using less gas.  Here are ten tips to help you drive greener and save green this winter:

1) Don’t buy “special” winter gas. Continue using whatever fuel you usually do because those touted for winter use do not do anything extra. Gas prices are higher in the winter, so if you are on a budget, continue buying the grade of gas you usually do and make sure to leave your tank half-full at all times.
2) Don’t warm up your car. First and foremost idling your car is not good for the environment. Second, it is against many Ontario municipality by-laws to idle for prolonged periods of time so you may not just be wasting gas, but also looking at a hefty fine if you are caught. Third, it takes longer to warm-up the car when it’s idling, it will heat faster if you are driving the vehicle.
3) Climate control.  Using the defroster will burn 20% more fuel. When your windows are clear turn off the defroster until you need it again.
4) Get the junk out of your trunk. Every 45 Kilograms of extra weight means you will use 2% more fuel. Not only will your car look better but you’ll save money.
5) Stock up when windshield wash is on sale. The most expensive place to purchase windshield washer fluid is at a gas station. So try to use your gas station points program points to get free windshield wash or buy it at a big box retailer. You can even purchase environmentally friendly windshield wash that contains only trace amounts of the toxic chemical Methanol found in the traditional variety.
6) Keep your vehicle running in good condition. In the fall go in for your tune up. Not only will this help reduce the chance of breaking down in the winter; but also when a car is running properly it burns less fuel. Don’t forget that a car that runs well should also have a lower emission rate, which is better for the environment.
7) Tire pressure. Tires tend to deflate in the cold weather. When your tires are low you can use up to 5% more gas. By keeping them topped up you are not only prolonging the life of your tires, keeping you and your passengers safe, but are saving on fuel costs.
8) Winter tires. By having a set of winter tires instead of all-season ones, you reduce your chance of collisions and are better equipped to deal with icy Canadian roads. Yes, they are expensive, but they should last you four winter seasons and prolong the life of your all-season tires by at least one year.
9) Drive slowly. Every 10 km/h over that you drive burns 10% more fuel. Driving slowly in the winter will help you avoid accidents, and save money.
10) Emergency roadside assistance. By having a roadside plan you will save money on towing or other costs, and help is only a phone call away. This may seem like an unnecessary expense, but statistically cars are more likely to breakdown in the winter. Think of it like extra insurance. Keep in mind that there are many plans available by a host of companies so you should shop around.

These are some easy tips to help you save money this winter season while staying safe. Remember that everything you do to help conserve gas, and lower your CO2 emissions is helping the environment. Be safe this winter.
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