Vancouver Wa Real Estate - Elite Realty NW

As real estate agents, our lives are severely affected by rising gas prices. We spend a large percentage of our working day in our cars. Driving clients on home tours, driving out to remote area for listing appointments, and commuting back and forth to the office. Even the most fuel efficient vehicles on the market today can put a huge dent in your wallet when you are driving so many miles every day. What choice do we have?

There is a fringe group out there who refer to themselves "Hypermilers."

Hypermiling

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hypermiling is a term used in North America that refers to a set of techniques used to maximize fuel economy. Those who practice the techniques are referred to as "hypermilers." The term was originally coined by Wayne Gerdes, who is considered by the media to be one of the top hypermilers in the World, and is known to hold the record for gas mileage in some common vehicles, including 30 miles per gallon in an Acura MDX and 59 MPG in a Honda Accord.

Hypermiling, which can be practiced in any vehicle regardless of its fuel economy, has gained in popularity as a result of the rise in gasoline prices during the 2000s. While common techniques can be carried out by average motorists making minor changes in their driving habits, some expert hypermilers use more advanced techniques some of which may be illegal in some jurisdictions.

What does this mean to the average Realtor like you and me? There are a few secrets that we can learn from these folks that can help us keep those hard earned dollars in our pockets. Here are a 5 simple and safe methods of increasing your mileage by just making a few changes and adjusting your driving habits.

1. Remove the junk from the trunk of your car. That stuff doesn't ride for free! Some studies show that it cost you 1 MPG for every 50 lbs. that you carry around with you. That adds up. I just went out and pulled about 100lbs of crap out of my car. I have been carrying my snow chains around all summer. Go figure!

2. Make sure that your tire pressures are, at minimum, set to manufacturer specifications. The higher the pressure, the less rolling resistance. Some sources recommend over inflating by a PSI or two but do so at your own risk! Also. remember that pressure is affected by ambient temperature. As temperature drops, so does your tire pressure, so keep track as the seasons change.

3. Remove roof racks when you aren't using them. This makes your car more aerodynamic and increases those MPG's. Guess I should store the ski racks with the chains! I'm learning.

4. Use low viscosity synthetic oil. (Recommended for pro Hypermilers only!) putting the lowest weight oil in your car helps it work more efficiently. This allows it to pump through the engine more easily and therefore the engine moves with less energy.

Tips 5 thru.... Mostly involve driving habits. Don't let your car idle when you don't need to, avoid fast food (more idling), stay within the speed limit, avoid hills, etc. Check out these guys to learn more than you ever wanted to know about fuel efficiency!
Want the ultimate gas saving measure? Buy A BIKE!

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark Countyand we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area.  Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information.