Drivers rely on gas station air pumps to properly inflate their tires, with many providing 24-hour availability and being easy and quick to use. But is using a gas station air pump the best option for filling your tires? Let’s take a closer look and compare it to using a dedicated car tire pump.
Cost
Gas station air pumps tend to be cheaper and more accessible than purchasing or hiring professional tire pumping services, yet their reliability can differ drastically. Pressure levels vary from pump to pump, and many don’t get cleaned regularly enough, which could negatively impact the quality of air you put into your tires and cause valve stem damage.
However, there is no need to despair. Many gas stations still provide free air for your car tires. Californians have it especially easy as state law mandates all stations have free air pumps available. Other locations offering this benefit are convenience stores like Kum & Go and Kroger locations which have “Gas Station” as an available filter option on their online Store Locator. Hy-Vee locations throughout Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin feature automated tire air pump machines.
To use a gas station air pump, first remove your valve stem caps from your tires and store them safely somewhere like your pocket. Next, hook up an air hose to the tire’s valve. As soon as the machine starts up, you should hear an audible rumbling and humming noise as your tire inflates itself. When done, listen out for its beep signaling that you may disconnect and remove the hose before placing it back where it belongs. Be sure to put it back as soon as you’re finished using it again later if needed by someone else!
Time
Car tires aren’t 100% leakproof, and air can escape over time. Therefore, it is wise to keep a portable air pump in your trunk to take advantage of free and convenient opportunities such as gas stations for filling them up quickly and conveniently.
Using a gas station air pump is straightforward. Simply park close enough that the air hose can reach all four tires of your vehicle. Adjust the digital gauge to the appropriate pressure value for your car before attaching a hose clip to each valve stem and turning on the air compressor. Once running, allow each tire to fill until its appropriate pressure has been achieved and listen out for its beep as you remove the hose when finished!
Remember to only check tire pressure when the tires are cold, meaning they haven’t been driven more than a couple of miles since being last filled up. Hot tires tend to lose air pressure more easily and give inaccurate readings on a pressure gauge. In addition, some gas stations charge a fee to use their air pump ranging from several cents up to $1.00 per use. Check signage at each gas station to confirm pricing information for inflation service.
Safety
Using an air pump at a gas station can be an economical and simple way to fill your tires. However, a poorly-maintained air pump could provide inaccurate results that lead to over-inflation resulting in decreased fuel efficiency, increased wear-and-tear on tires, and lowered safety on the road.
Air pumps can usually be found at gas stations, often near the edge of their parking lots and away from gasoline pumps. To use an air pump, pull your vehicle up close and insert a quarter coin in its coin slot if necessary. Then, crouch beside your tire and connect its spout directly into your tire valve. It should fit easily if you use enough pressure; otherwise, adjust its placement closer.
Pump air slowly into your tires using short bursts from a pump. When you reach your desired pressure, take note and remove the hose, checking with a tire gauge once more for accuracy. If necessary, add additional air until all four tires have reached the recommended PSI levels.
Checking tire pressure when using an air pump at a gas station should always be done with a gauge since temperature changes may cause it to vary and cause changes in pressure. Properly inflated tires provide a smooth ride while increasing mileage savings and saving you money on gas.
Convenience
Gas station air pumps offer convenient fills when time is of the essence, as well as being more likely to be available when needed, particularly after hours. But their pressure may differ; therefore, it’s wise to carry around a tire pressure gauge for more precise fills and to protect against blowouts, maximize mileage, and enhance safety.
Many gas stations provide air pumps that are free to use, saving you from spending any extra money on them. You’ll likely find these in the same parking lot, though separate from them. These look similar to what is found at home: two hoses connected by a nozzle for attaching onto tire valves. Plus, each pump features a gauge to display how much PSI you require in your tire pressure.
Once you locate a pump, pull your car in close and park next to it. Before using, ensure the hose can reach the tire you’re filling; some pumps offer multiple hoses if one doesn’t reach. Hooking up and pumping will begin soon after. Once finished, be sure to put everything back where it belongs. You don’t want to ruin it for someone else using it later!
In conclusion, gas station air pumps can be a convenient and cost-effective option for filling your car tires. However, it’s essential to be mindful of potential variations in pressure and the importance of using a tire pressure gauge for accurate fills. Keeping a portable air pump in your trunk can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for any tire inflation needs. For more automotive insights, check out Legendary Motors Mag.
