Utah Gasoline Pumps Remain Accurate
Salt Lake City - Utahns who hit the highways this summer driving season can feel comfortable that the majority of the state's gasoline stations are pumping gas accurately. The State's Weights and Measures inspectors regularly test gas pumps and report that on the whole, consumers are getting what they pay for at the pump.
"While there are occasional problems with pumps where consumers are being shorted, the vast majority of the 28,394 gasoline pumps in Utah are operating within tolerances," said Weights and Measures Manager, Brett Gurney. "For every pump that is dispensing too little gasoline, there is one that is dispensing more gasoline than it should," Gurney added. The typical error involve discrepancies of three to four ounces of gasoline for every five gallons of gas.
See a video of an inspector conduting a pump test
Gasoline inspections Jan. 1, 2011 through May 12, 2011
209 gas stations inspected
4,362 pumps inspected
91% of pumps pass inspection
The 9% that failed did so for a variety of reasons including pumping too much fuel, incorrect labeling, incorrect octane levels, hose condition, computer jump, and other reasons.
32 consumer complaints logged
The Weights and Measures Program routinely screens gasoline to verify ethanol presence and octane levels. This included reviewing fuel delivery documentation, labeling of the fuel dispensers, and testing fuel storage tanks for water content.
To avoid surprises at the pump consider these tips:
> Understand that the vehicle tank capacity in the owner's manual is only an estimate. It may hold more or less than the stated capacity.
> Multiply the number of gallons you purchase by the price per gallon. This should be the total price showing on the pump.
> Be sure you are using the correct pump. The octane rating and the price per gallon or liter should be clearly marked on each pump.
> Be sure the pump is set to zero before any gasoline is pumped.
> If using a credit card, check your receipt to be sure the amount billed is the amount on the pump.
> Remove the nozzle from your vehicle's fuel tank when the dispenser automatically shuts off when full. You may think you are getting fuel when it could be returning to the stations fuel storage tank.
> Put the nozzle back into the pump after fueling to turn the dispenser off. Make sure the gallons, dollars and cents are not increasing after fill up.
Saving Fuel Tips
> Maintain proper tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can make your car engine work harder and burn more fuel.
> Plan trips to minimize the miles driven.
> In dry road conditions, use cruise control to gain the most efficiency from the vehicle.
> Drive at or below the posted speed limit.
> Avoid sudden stops and turns as they cause excessive and unnecessary wear on tires and brakes.
> Use speed control to maintain an even speed whenever possible.
> Keep your vehicle properly tuned up.
> Don't purchase an octane grade that is higher than what is required in vehicles owner's manual.
> Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or storage area.
> Keep your vehicle maintained with proper fluids and change of filters.
> Rideshare and carpool when possible.
> Reduce idling time.
If you suspect a pump you are using is not working properly, address the situation with the merchant or contact the Weights and Measures Program at 801-538-7158.
Posted May 26, 2011