Block Heater n00b Question

lts1ow

Needs moar PAH!
May 14, 2012
1,598
0
36
NJ
Its been 15* out lately, and will prob get a little colder out tonight. I just plugged my truck in and will leave it plugged in till 7am.

Any issue with the overnight heater on? (other than my electric bill :D)

I only ask cause I couldn't find a straight answer and don't wanna burn out the element.
 

lts1ow

Needs moar PAH!
May 14, 2012
1,598
0
36
NJ
Ok thanks guys, this morning certainly was obvious I drive a diesel :rofl:Forgot to plug it in last night and it was chilly, trans temp was 28*
 

PhilsLB7

Way Better Than Facebook
Jun 29, 2009
810
0
0
Tennessee
When I plug mine in I use a 15amp timer I got at Lowes. I usually set the time so the block heater is on for 4 hours before I leave for work. This would help cut down on your electric bill.
 

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DAVe3283

Heavy & Slow
Sep 3, 2009
3,727
296
83
Boise, ID, USA
I recommend a timer as well. These block heaters put a dent in your electric bill for sure.
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I leave mine plugged in overnight from time to time, and there is never a problem.
 

lts1ow

Needs moar PAH!
May 14, 2012
1,598
0
36
NJ
Yea, I have a timer set up, but people keep unplugging it and then it never comes on when it should.

I will get that set up tonight, 4 hrs before start up even if its 15* out?
 

JustinD

Plow Truck
Nov 21, 2008
2,067
0
36
42
Tiverton Rhode Island
Mine usually starts terrible in the cold, even just in the 30's ( I bet I have a bunch of dead glow plugs, and no intake heater) I plugged it in last night, was 7 degrees here and it fired up like it was July and I had heat pretty quick!!!! I'll be plugging mine in all the time now!!!!
 

Bonestock

Active member
Aug 9, 2010
1,358
1
38
Worland Wy
Block heater

It has been said that leaving your block heater plugged in for extended periods of time will burn it out. I have had a few go out but I still leave mine plugged in all day @ work & all night with little trouble. Timer is a good idea.:thumb:
 

AKlowriderZ71

New member
May 14, 2012
719
0
0
Wyoming
When I used to park outside, the block heaters would get plugged in anytime the temps were single digits or colder. Plug them in when we got home from work, and leave them plugged in until we leave for work in the morning. Did this for years and years, and never burned up a block heater. Sometimes they would stay plugged in for several days, undriven. If you do use a timer, make sure to give it at least 4 hours.

Good batteries are important too.