Cold weather reduces the efficiency of all vehicles. Researchers in arctic Finland have examined whether engine block heaters could contribute to improved efficiency in internal-combustion automobiles.
The study, conducted by the University of Eastern Finland and Tampere University, generated some intricate findings that were later published in the journal Applied Energy. Vehicles were started cold, preheated with an engine block heater, and driven on the same route with the engine already warmed up.
The trip was normal, with temperatures as low as -18.4 degrees Fahrenheit along the way. According to the study, under these circumstances, engines took 19 minutes to get up to their ideal operating temperatures following a cold start.
The study discovered that, compared to a cold start, engine preheaters reduced fuel usage by 10–20% during the early warm-up period, but they did not hasten the engine’s ascent to its optimum operating temperature. Additionally, there was no appreciable difference in diesel engine particle emissions. Additionally, the study neglected to take into account the fuel or power needed to run engine block heaters, which could offset mpg increases.
“In summary, using preheating solely for the purpose of improving fuel economy and reducing emissions does not find support in actual cold-temperature driving conditions,” researchers stated in a statement.
Although many engine block heaters are electric and connect into an exterior outlet, some run on fossil fuel. Ironically, it might be a little simpler to locate a plug next to a garage or parking space because of the rise of EVs and home charging.
In bitter cold, the range of EVs and gasoline-powered cars both decreases. The EVs simply lose more. Electric powertrains are just as efficient in cold weather than internal combustion engines, but the problem is how much energy is required to heat the battery pack and cabin. Once warmed up, internal combustion engines provide enough extra heat to maintain a comfortable operating temperature while acting as a heat source for the cabin.
The electrolyte in most EVs is protected from freezing by a low-level heater, which has proven durable enough for Canadian winters. Additionally, heat pumps in the Tesla Model Y and other EVs assist in overcoming that.
FAQ’s(Frequently asked questions)
Q: What is an engine block heater?
A: An engine block heater is a device that is installed in the engine block of a vehicle. It uses electricity to heat the engine coolant, which makes it easier to start the engine in cold weather.
Q: How do engine block heaters save gas and reduce emissions?
A: Engine block heaters save gas by reducing the amount of time it takes for the engine to reach operating temperature. A cold engine uses more fuel to reach operating temperature than a preheated engine.
Engine block heaters also reduce emissions by reducing the amount of time that the engine is running in cold mode. In cold mode, the engine runs richer, which means that it uses more fuel and produces more emissions.
Q: How much can I save on gas and emissions by using an engine block heater?
A: The amount of gas and emissions that you can save by using an engine block heater depends on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle, the outside temperature, and how long the engine is preheated.
In general, engine block heaters can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10% during the initial warm-up period, versus a cold start. Engine block heaters can also reduce cold-weather emissions, such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, by up to 15%.
Q: Is it worth using an engine block heater?
A: Whether or not it is worth using an engine block heater depends on a number of factors, including the climate you live in, how often you drive in cold weather, and the cost of electricity.
If you live in a cold climate and drive frequently in cold weather, then using an engine block heater can save you money on gas and reduce your emissions. However, if you live in a mild climate or don’t drive very often in cold weather, then using an engine block heater may not be worth the cost.
Q: How long should I preheat my engine with an engine block heater?
A: The amount of time you need to preheat your engine with an engine block heater depends on the outside temperature. In general, you should preheat your engine for at least 30 minutes before driving in cold weather.
Q: What are some other tips for saving gas and reducing emissions in cold weather?
A: In addition to using an engine block heater, there are a number of other things you can do to save gas and reduce emissions in cold weather, including:
- Avoid idling your engine
- Use cruise control whenever possible
- Keep your tires properly inflated
- Get regular tune-ups and oil changes