Block Heater ?'s

[MilesTeg]

I was wondering when it's appropriate to use a block heater. Some useful info: I live in Colorado (near Denver) where the average morning temp in the winter is between 15-35 degrees, with occasional drops to sub zero (espeically this year). Also useful info is that (as per Ford's recomendation) I run 5W-20 full synthetic.

My question is: Is it bad (i.e. cause damage to the engine, etc.) to use the block heater if it's not cold? The reverse of this is, is it worth the expense (in electricity) to use the block heater if the engine starts ok in the morning regardless? Does it reduce engine wear at startup?

Also, the manual states that it is ok to plug it in overnight. Is this correct? I considered buying a timer, but I might end up using the block heater only occasionally, so a timer in that case would be not worth it.

Any info would be appreciated!

Paraniod New Owner,
MilesTeg

 

[Rhett]

In my opinion, if its above zero deg F and you run synth oil, you don't *need* a block heater in a gas engine, but it's nice to have one. If you own a diesel, you will need a block heater in those temps.

Since your truck already has a block heater, that's good; if I were you, I would use it in the winter. I can see this advantage--with pre-heated oil/block, your truck will run open loop (warm up mode) a much shorter time. This is good, because when your engine is running in open loop it uses a lot more gas. So you might save a little gas that way; of course you'll use electricity, so it's a trade.

 

[wpurple]

I use mine when it is 40 and below. It definatly helps fuel economy. Seems to heat the block to jsut about 100. Plus it's nice to get in the truck and be instantaneously warm.