Top tips on how to save money on fuel
In this article, we'll cover:
Top tips to save money on fuel
Spending too much money on fuel really cuts into your profit margin, so let’s get to it.
What’s the best way for your business to save money on fuel?
- Avoid filling up at a motorway service station. You will always pay a premium.
- Download an app, such as Esso’s E-Route, to help plan your journey and identify fuel stations on your route.
- Our top tip: get a fuel card. When you refuel, use a fuel card to enjoy money off the pump price. Did you know, you get a free Esso fuel card (worth £43/year) with your Checkatrade membership?
- Move away from fuel completely and get an electric van!
Do fuel cards save you money?
Yes. Fuel loyalty cards allow business owners to save money on the cost of fuel. And many are saving money right now thanks to their fuel card.
In fact, Checkatrade members are saving on fuel
We’ve teamed up with WEX Europe Services to negotiate competitive fuel prices exclusively for our members to benefit.
In the last year, Checkatrade members saved on average 5P PER LITRE off pump price using their Esso Card™. This is a nice £160 a year saving on fuel for one van.†
Checkatrade members can apply for a FREE Esso Card™ (normally £43 per card, per year) on us!
Does driving style affect fuel consumption?
This one always starts a good debate. While you’re not going to see savings on the same scale as a fuel card, every little helps, as they say.
- Reduce your speed
Aggressive driving such as speeding, rapid acceleration, and braking often wastes fuel. It can lower your fuel economy by 33% at motorway speeds and by 5% around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than just money on fuel.††
- Avoid idling
Don’t let your vehicle idle for prolonged periods of time. If you get stuck in a traffic jam, consider switching off your engine, provided it is safe to do so.
- Limit your air-con usage
Air conditioning is known for using power, which consumes fuel and emits CO₂.** If you’re driving at a low speed, switch it off and open your windows instead.
For more eco-driving tips, click here.
Does vehicle maintenance affect fuel efficiency?
- Tyre pressure
Make sure you check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before you set off on a long journey. Under-inflated tyres can increase your fuel consumption by up to 4 per cent.***
- Vehicle maintenance
Keep your vehicle well serviced, and make sure you check the oil levels regularly to help keep the engine on top form.
- Choose your fuel carefully
Using high-quality fuel from one of the major networks such as Esso can increase fuel efficiency, meaning you get more miles per gallon. It’s also better for your engine, with fewer nasty deposits.
Does vehicle load affect fuel consumption?
- Windows and roof rack
If driving at 60 miles per hour or more keep the windows up. Open windows create a lot of aerodynamic drag, which can add to your fuel usage when driving at high speeds.
Also, remove the roof rack if you’re not using it, for up to 10 per cent savings on fuel.****
- Lose some weight
We’re not being rude, we are of course referring to the load your van is holding!
Reducing your load by 45kg could increase fuel efficiency by 2%.††
Quick summary
While driving style can impact your fuel efficiency, the best way for your business to save money on fuel is by using a fuel card.
Checkatrade members are eligible for a free Esso fuel card (worth £43/year), which gives your business a discounted rate of up to 5P PER LITRE off pump price. it’s a no brainer – become a member, get your free card, get £160 a year savings on one van. Simple.
If that doesn’t convince you, then there’s other benefits and discounts our members are getting; from their tools to vehicles. Check out our Member benefits page to discover all the added value of Checkatrade membership.
FAQs
Is diesel cheaper with a fuel card?
Yes, the cheapest way to buy fuel for your work vehicle(s) is by using a fuel card.
What are fuel additives?
Fuel additives are added to your fuel tank after filling up. They claim to offer better fuel efficiency, help to keep your engine running smoothly, and reduce harmful emissions.
How do you save money on car fuel?
The best way to save money on company fuel is to use a fuel card.
†£156 a year saving based on 1 van filling up with 60 litres of diesel a week, over 1 year and up to a 5p saving per litre. See General Terms and Conditions of Card Use – Checkatrade for more information.
††Source: The U.S. Department of Energy and Natural Resources Canada.
*Esso Synergy Diesel Claims based on (1) internal or third party vehicle engine testing; and/or (2) government publications; and/or (3) industry or scientific literature. Testing based on diesel vehicles purchased on the UK used car market and independently tested at Mahle, UK. Fuel economy was assessed in the condition vehicles were received. Testing occurred over 4000 km using Esso Synergy Diesel and the average increase in fuel economy in the cars tested was 1.8%. Benefits may vary depending on factors such as engine type, engine condition, driving style, and diesel previously used. **Esso Synergy Supreme+ claims based on (1) internal or third party vehicle engine testing; and/or (2) government publications; and/or (3) industry or scientific literature. Esso Synergy Supreme+ Unleaded Petrol has a new formula and double additive treat rate, compared to Esso Synergy Unleaded Petrol. Check manufacturer’s guidance on octane requirements. Benefits may vary depending on factors such as engine type, driving style, and petrol previously used. Esso Synergy Supreme+ fuels are available at selected Esso service stations only. ***International Energy Agency. ****European Commission. †Terms and conditions apply; please see the website for more details.
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