Winter Energy Saving Tips

Fuel-efficient driving is safe driving
Drivers can consume up to 35% less fuel by driving at a smooth, even speed and by anticipating lane changes and traffic obstructions. This is especially the case in the winter. Slowing down and increasing the following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you allows yourself more response time which helps to save fuel and to make winter driving easier on yourself and other drivers on the roadways.

Reduce unnecessary idling
Even on the coldest of winter days you can drive away after only 30 seconds of idling provided your windows are defrosted. Contrary to popular belief, the best way to warm up your car is to drive it at a moderate speed. Idling your vehicle is not only an ineffective and inefficient way to warm up your vehicle's engine and other components – but it is actually harmful to your vehicle, costs more money, consumes more fuel, and produces more GHG emissions. To learn more visit the Idle-Free Zone

Use a timed-block heater
Use an automatic timer to switch on the block heater two hours before you plan to leave. A block heater enables the vehicle's engine to start more easily and reach its peak operating temperature more quickly than idling or using a remote car starter. Block heaters can improve overall fuel economy by as much as 10% or more in below zero temperatures.

Defog your windows without unnecessarily idling
There are two simple tricks to prevent your car windows from fogging up. One is to open a window as soon as you enter the vehicle. The second is to clear all the snow from the air intake on top of the hood; otherwise, the defroster will draw moisture into the system and fog the windshield.

Clear away the snow and ice from your vehicle Your vehicle consumes more fuel and produces more GHG emissions as snow and ice build in wheel wells and under bumpers, adding weight and rubbing against the tires. Snow and ice that collects on top of the vehicle, increase aerodynamic drag and vehicle weight.

Trip planning is particularly important in the winter Plan your route to avoid obstacles such as unplowed roads, hills and multiple traffic lights. Combine errands into one trip to help minimize your fuel consumption and GHG emissions.

Remove your ski rack when it is not needed A ski rack, even an empty one, increases a vehicle's aerodynamic drag, causing the engine to work harder, consume more fuel and produce more GHG emissions.

Take your car in for a winter check-up Do not wait until spring to have your vehicle serviced. During the winter take your vehicle to a qualified technician to have the spark plugs, the air and fuel filters, battery connections, engine belts, tires, brakes, lights, ignition system, cooling system as well as all fluid levels checked.

Perform your own monthly check-ups Read the owner's manual carefully to become familiar with your vehicle's maintenances schedule ans what you can do to prepare for winter. For example, you can head-off problems from creeping up on you during the winter by taking a few minutes to check your vehicle's fluid levels, tire pressure, spark plug wires, battery terminals and radiator hoses and clamps yourself.

Measure the pressure of your tires
Correct tire pressure is especially important during the winter as cold temperatures cause the air pressure in tires to drop and poorly inflated tires cause your vehicle to consume more fuel. Measure your tire pressure once a month, especially after there has been a sharp drop in temperature. Think about switching to winter tires. By improving traction and reducing tire slippage winter tires improve safety and save fuel on snow and ice covered roads. For more information visit Be Tire Smart.

Don't forget your windshield wipers Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. Keep the washer reservoir topped up with windshield washer fluid and always keep a spare jug in the trunk.