The use of an engine block heater is highly recommended in cold climates. An engine block heater is a plug in for your car that will heat up the coolant or oil depending on the type of heater. A block heater has several benefits; it reduces wear on the engine, reduces engine warm up time and reduces emissions.

The oil viscosity in a cold engine is much thicker than one that is warmer. Oil does not circulate though the engine as well when cold. This creates more wear on the internal components. A simple example of this is the old Singer Treadle sewing machine. One uses a thin machine oil to keep the parts lubricated. If you went to a heavier weight oil, there would be more friction among the parts thus increasing the speed of the metal wear on the moving joints.

There also is less time required for warm up of the car since your engine starts warmer. This reduces emissions on both the engine initial start and the engine’s early revolutions. The fuel is not vaporizing as nicely for combustion, so the engine is kicking excess fuel out the exhaust. This contributes to interior carbon buildup that will eventually negatively effect valve sealing and valve lubrication. In other words it shortens engine life.

Block heaters can be a bit of a nuisance because it is an extra step to plug in ones car. Also a block heater plugged in the entire night can needlessly increase energy bills. The way to increase convenience and moderate energy bills is with a switch. At the house, I installed a manual basic switch. I’m confident there is a more automated alternative available with a timer if you look around.

The extension cord for the block heater lights up at the end, so you know when power is on. The 3-way plug at the end of the cord can be removed if it gets filled with ice. Then there is still a working receptacle.

This is the steps taken. On cold evenings, the vehicle is plugged in at night. Then the switch turned off. In the morning, the switch is turned on to preheat the engine. While there car is warming up, the extension cord is wound back up on the hose hanger. Overall a slight variance in routine for both short and long term benefit.