Whether you’re driving across the country or commuting to work, at some point, you’ll have to fill up. You might not think much about your routine gas station stops. After all, it’s only a few minutes out of your day. However, there’s more to gas stations than meets the eye. Here are four gas station secrets you need to know. 

4 Surprising Gas Station Facts 

1. Timing Matters

Most people stop by the gas station on the way to or from work. But filling up right after midnight or just before dawn could save you some cash. Many gas stations increase prices during the day when demand is high and drop prices after midnight to attract as many customers as possible. Although you may not want to wake up at 4 a.m. once a week just to fill the tank, it’s something to take advantage of if you work odd hours or are traveling at night. 

2. Pumps Aren’t Always Accurate 

The state Bureau of Weights and Measures is responsible for ensuring you get what you pay for at the pump. However, years can pass between inspections in some states. To avoid getting conned, make sure the screen says $0 before you start pumping. In many states, you’ll see a sticker with the inspection date on the pump. If the label has been tampered with or ripped off, consider taking your business elsewhere. 

3. No Gas Is Better Than Another 

You’ve probably seen advertisements touting one gasoline brand’s superiority over the competition. But, in truth, one brand of gas is as good as the next. Many oil companies boast their brand contains additives that clean the engine and improve drive quality. What they don’t tell you is all gas contains these additives. The U.S. government passed a law in 1994 requiring that detergents be added to all gasoline brands to prevent fuel injector clogs. State and local regulators perform routine inspections to ensure those standards are met. 

4. Don’t Use Debit 

Many people use their debit card as a convenient way to pay for gas and other day-to-day expenses. The problem is, when you use your card to fuel up, the bank can't predict how much you'll spend. To ensure you have adequate funds to cover the purchase, many banks automatically put a hold on $20 or more from your checking account. That means, regardless of how much you spent, you could be out $20 to $100 for up to three business days. What’s worse, if your funds are low, you could end up overdrafting in the meantime.

Tri-Mart BP in Tripoli, WI, is the go-to gas station for travelers and residents alike. The family-owned shop has been a community staple since 1992, providing fuel for vehicles as well as propane for homes and businesses. Call (715) 564-2440 or visit their website to learn more about their services.