Good idea for next winter? There are a number of thread suggesting that cold start up is the cause of low MPG. Anyone consider a block heater - I know that the car has a coolant thermos. but, would this help and would it be economical if plugged into a timer on a cheap electric circuit (we have all electric house and discount rates for October to May)
Here's a thread on some discussion about it: http://www.priuschat.com/forums/viewtopic....ht=block+heater The Canadian Prius comes with a block heater standard. I believe the EU one might, as well.
I'm doing the test again right now and have been for a week. Will run the test for another 2 weeks and see in the spread sheet if it's worth it. 6 hours on a timer at .0619cent's per kilowatt. Block heater is 500 watts. Just a gestimate is NO, but still a bit to early to tell.
Does the block heater heat the coolant or the oil too? Its always been my believe that a block heater only heats the coolant. Thanks, Clint
Different types of self-install heaters are available: 1) block heater - heats the general engine block, greatest effect on fluids (oil and coolant). Great for easy starting in very cold air temperatures. Essential in snowy climates. Problem - after a successful start-up, you can forget to unplug and drive off (hard on electrical cords). 2) Circulating radiator heater - warms and circulates coolant to the extent possible. Helpful in snowy climates, but not essential. Must remove before driving. 3) Oil dip stick heater - somewhat warms oil, but can cause deposition at point of dip stick and deterioration of oil. Can be helpful in snowy climates. Remove before driving. 4) Electric blankets - custom fit to go around battery or over engine. Provides warm ambient air temperature for easy start. May be critical in snowy climates for weak batteries or extreme cold (< -40*C). Remove before driving. For those who park outside and cannot plug-in, many remove and take the 12V battery inside at night, then replace the battery in the morning just before starting (cumbersome). 5) Light bulb - lay under vehicle, under engine or under gas line. Provides general ambient warmth, allows gasoline to flow in extreme cold (-40*C). Can sometimes be "thee" difference in getting a conventional vehicle going on a very cold morning. Remove before driving and don't drive over the bulb. 6) Photovolatic panel - trickle charges and "tops-off" battery in extreme cold, such that after a vehicle has been sitting out for 10-12 hours in extreme cold (-40*C), provides a few extra Joules of energy to ensure probably being able to start at the end of the day and drive home (to the enclosed, warm garage with plug-ins for various heaters). Permanent installation, does not interfer with driving. Other than an enclosed garage, these techniques are consistently helpful in climates with 6,000 to 10,000 or more heating degree-days. The above ignore the transmission that must have a low viscosity lubricant and also be warmed. Fluids require more frequent service intervals in cold climates.
