It is no secret that the Salt Lake area has a smog problem, and South Ogden is no exception. On hot summer days, the inversion layer can be seen hovering over the valley like a blanket, trapping pollutants close to the ground. This can be especially hard on those with respiratory problems, as it can worsen asthma and other conditions.
Luckily, you can help keep smog to a minimum by making a few small changes to the way you operate your car! Together, we can have a big impact on the quality of our air, keeping the Beehive state as clean and beautiful as can be.
What Causes Smog?
Smog is made up of a mixture of chemicals, including nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. These mix together in the presence of sunlight to create a haze that can be seen hanging over the valley on many days, particularly in the summertime. Utah’s high altitude, coupled with the increasing number of cars on its roads, creates the perfect storm for this harmful and ugly cloud of pollutants!
How Can You Help?
You can do your part to help reduce smog in the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding area by following these simple tips:
1. Don’t Idle
When you leave your car running, even for just a minute, you are emitting smog-forming pollutants into the air. So, next time you’re waiting for a friend or picking up takeout, turn off your engine!
Pro-tip: Your car will actually warm up faster as you drive, so there’s no need to let it idle to “warm up.”
2. Take Less Trips
If you can run multiple errands in one trip, do it! The more you drive, the more emissions you produce. So, consolidate your trips whenever possible.
Pro-tip: Carpooling is a great way to reduce the number of trips you take. Not only will it help reduce smog, but it’s also a great way to save money on gas.
3. Don’t Drive Short Distances
It may be tempting to just hop in the car for a quick trip down the street, but this is actually one of the worst things you can do for air quality. Why? Since your car emits more pollutants when it is first started up, those short trips add up quickly!
Pro-tip: Walking or cycling is not only good for the environment, but it’s also great exercise. So, leave the car at home whenever possible and start looking forward to both a better physique and cleaner air to breathe.
4. Take Care of Your Catalytic Converter
Your catalytic converter is a key part of your car’s emission control system, and it can get clogged up over time. It’s perhaps the most crucial part of your car when it comes to reducing smog, so take care of it!
Pro tip: At Master Muffler South Ogden, we can help you keep your catalytic converter in top shape! We offer cost-effective, superior quality catalytic converter services, so you can rest assured that your car is running as cleanly as possible. Contact us today to learn more.
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