by Josh Damm
4. May 2010 17:42
Putting nitrogen in tires is a common practice for NASCAR drivers, commercial airline pilots and government agencies, and now North Iowa drivers have the same opportunity to increase gas mileage, improve handling and lengthen the life of their tires.
Lichtsinn Motors of Forest City recently purchased a compressed nitrogen machine and according to Ron Lichtsinn, “There are many reasons to make the switch from regular air to nitrogen.”
"Tires filled with nitrogen maintain consistent tire pressure which saves drivers money by increasing gas mileage and extending the life of their tires," said Lichtsinn. "Using nitrogen in your tires, is a great way to save money and help the environment at the same time." In fact, many environmental groups are encouraging the use of nitrogen in tires in order to improve gas mileage and reduce the number of rubber tires that need to be replaced through wear and tear on the road.
Proper inflation is the key to improving gas mileage and nitrogen doesn't lose pressure as temperatures rise and fall. Motorists can improve gas mileage by 4-10 percent simply by keeping their tires properly inflated.
Nitrogen molecules are bigger than oxygen molecules, so nitrogen seeps out more slowly from tires than air; nitrogen resists heat buildup better than air, which contains moisture; and nitrogen reduces oxidation, which can damage the tire from the inside out, proponents say. Nitrogen is an inert gas, so there are no safety or environmental issues.
According to the The Bureau of Labor Statistics April 2009 report, the average American spent $2,384 on gasoline and oil in 2007. If drivers save 10% per year on their gas bill, that's an average savings of over $238 per year.
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