Heu.

What exactly is an engine block heater, how does it work, what all can it do, and what are the pros & cons of having one installed and using it. Also, how it installed? Plus I'd appreciate any othe valuable information about using a engine block heater so I can decide if I should get one.

Thanks!

 

the block heater goes where the drain plug normally goes for the coolant, which is in the front of the engine

you just plug it into an ordinary outlet

its good if you live in a cold part of the country

I just recently installed one in my Integra, I noticed the car reaches normal operating temperature faster, but its still fairly warm in lower New York

I think when it gets colder outside, it will have a greater impact on how fast the engine warms up, compared to not having a heater

 

a block heater is a heating element thats usually mounts in a freeze plug hole on the block. It's powered by a normal household ac outlet.

 

My father was stationed in Alaska for a bit and ALL cars have this to help deal with the cold. He said when plugged in, the cars didn't stay cold very long at all. Very cool, but not really all that useful unless you're up north.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by notstock93 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">My father was stationed in Alaska for a bit and ALL cars have this to help deal with the cold. He said when plugged in, the cars didn't stay cold very long at all. Very cool, but not really all that useful unless you're up north.</TD></TR></TABLE>

Since most engine wear takes place while the engine is reaching operating temp, I'd imagine an engine block heater is beneficial in virtually any sort of climate. Even if you're at 80F, it still takes while to hit the 180-220F. Now starting at -20F in Toronto... yeah, you can drive across the providence with the water temp needle pegged at C (well, it's not that bad, but Canada still sucks)

Adi

 

It's beneficial regardless... some folks run it (or an oil warmer) to keep the temps warm for a smoother starting engine. I plug mine in even during the summer because I spend less time warming up the engine, and for sure I know that the engine is getting the lesser wear and tear. It uses a lot of power though.. The OEM Honda heater uses about 600W of electricity.

In the colder areas, the electricity required for the block heater pays itself by increasing gas mileage. It's a must for folks in Canada, and most cars come with one from the factory.