Using the right octane can save

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin reminds motorists that one of the ways to save on fuel is using a lower octane in your vehicle, if the manufacturer recommends it.

"Most of today's engines are built to burn a lower octane," says Commissioner Irvin. "All octane graded gasoline has the same cleaning additives and the same formulation to cut down on air pollution.

"You are burning money when you use a higher octane than is required for your vehicle. You could be paying 10 to 30 cents more per gallon for the higher octane."

Irvin pointed out that the octane is one of the quality measurements checked by the Georgia Department of Agriculture State Fuel Oil Laboratory.

"Some high performance engines do need a higher octane, but the manufacturer will document that in the owner's manual," Irvin said.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture also inspects for other quality factors in the pumps and the underground tanks and for accurate dispensing to insure that the customer is receiving the right quantity of fuel. Samples from each inspection site are tested in the State Fuel Oil Laboratory.