May 6, 2008 8:37 am US/Eastern
State Inspects Gas Stations For "Pump Jumping"
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
A gallon of self-serve unleaded gasoline is now a record-high $3.57 in Massachusetts. So how do you know if the pumps are working properly - so every gallon you pay for is really a gallon in the tank?
The state Division of Standards checks every gas station at least once a year to make sure drivers are getting their money's worth.
When the prices get high, they get a lot of complaints about something called "pump jumping" - when the counter on the pump starts moving before gas starts to come out of the nozzle.
If you see this happening, experts say go back in and ask the station attendant to reset the meter for you.
So far this year, state inspectors have investigated 77 cases of pump jumping.
Officials say it is usually not something stations do on purpose. It commonly happens when it's cold out and when a hose hasn't been used for several hours. In the end, it only amounts to a few cents more for the customer.
But the inspectors say a gallon pumped has to be a gallon in the tank or else.
The experts say, for the most part, drivers are getting what they pay for.
One inspector told WBZ he's never had a major violation in ten years on the job.
They also check for correct octane levels and the station isn't always the one getting the advantage of an error.
In one case, the 87 octane fuel actually registered 89.9 on an inspector's test - a hidden bonus for drivers who used that pump.
When inspectors do find a discrepancy, they recalibrate and seal the machines.
If you witness a problem at a gas station, state officials want to know about it. Whether it's an inaccurate sign or a pump problem, they ask that you call the state Division of Standards.
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