It doesn’t make any difference what type of RV you own, if you’re not working really hard to squeeze every mile per gallon out of the gas or diesel fuel you purchase, you should be.  Whether you're towing a pop-up camping trailer, 5^th wheel, travel trailer or driving a class-A motor home, with the high prices of gas and diesel today, you’ve got to focus on fuel economy.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sensible driving can save bundles on today's rapidly rising fuel costs. 

Here are a few things you can do to improve fuel economy.

1)         Make sure your air filter is clean and free from debris.  A dirty air filter can cut your miles per gallon by up to 10%.  So instead of paying $3.50 per gallon for fuel, you’re paying $3.85 if you have a dirty air filter.

2)       Driving speed is also very important when you’re attempting to conserve fuel.  Fuel economy tests have shown that for every 5 miles per hour you drive over 60, your fuel costs go up ten cents per gallon.  So driving 70 mph raises your fuel cost twenty cents per gallon.  Also rapid acceleration costs money, as much as 33%.  So take it easy when you’re accelerating up to speed from a full stop.

3)       Low tire pressure is dangerous and also costs you fuel economy.  Keep a tire gauge in your glove compartment and check your tires at least once a month.  Also make sure you check the pressure when the tires are cold before leaving on a trip.  Low tire pressure can also cause tire failure, and a blow out at any speed is dangerous, not to mention having to replace the tire.

4)       Weight is a major factor in fuel consumption.  Make sure you’re going to use it if you take it.  Take a hard look at anything you plan to take on an RVing trip.  If you haven’t used it in the last 2 trips, don’t take it.

5)       It is extremely important to keep your vehicle in good running condition.  Poorly tuned engines and faulty emissions sensors can cost as much as 40% of your fuel economy.  Synthetic oil can be a little pricy, but it will help save fuel

6)       Last but not least, try to follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.  Good  maintenance on your RV will also save you fuel and protect your engine.  If your RV is in need of servicing, bring it in to the Rocky Mountain RV and Marine service department.  We have 11 RIVA Certified RV Technicians and 7 RIVA Master Certified Technicians.  You can rest assured that your RV will be in tip-top shape after we service it!

So there ya go, six simple steps for saving fuel while enjoying outdoor family fun in your RV.