Best Practices for Fuel Efficiency

Follow these best practices to run your equipment efficiently and reduce fuel costs.

Properly grease machine fittings

When components are properly greased, fuel efficiency is increased, simply because the power needed to perform operations is reduced and the load on the hydraulic system is reduced.

Perform regular service on your equipment

Follow the equipment manufacturer's guidelines to determine how often you should service your equipment. Most machines require maintenance at least every 250 to 500 hours. The best way to ensure that your machine is working efficiently is to keep up with the suggested service intervals.

Conduct regular air filter inspections

When an air filter is dirty, the engine cannot get the air it needs to operate efficiently. Some machines have air flow indicators that tell you when it is time to change the filter, but if you wait until you see a warning, you have probably been wasting fuel.

Air filters should be inspected every 50 hours to ensure optimal operating performance. If your filter is visibly clogged with dirt during your inspection, it is time to change it.

Pay attention for signs of a mechanical problem

Mechanical problems, such as a bad fuel injector, can significantly reduce fuel efficiency and cause additional problems if not corrected quickly. When there are signs of any potential issue, such as excessive black smoke, bring your machine in for repair immediately.

Check tire psi

Check the air pressure in your tires before and after each use. Low air pressure can reduce the efficiency of your machine and increase the amount of fuel necessary for operation. If the tire pressure is low, fill the tires with air as soon as possible.

Operate your engine at a low rpm when possible

Begin any task by running at a low rpm, then slowly raise the rpm until the engine does not strain. This speed will be the most efficient rpm for that particular task.