2023 f150 Block Heater usage

[Randy Stoner]

So according to many, the block heater should be plugged in at least two to four hours prior to starting in sub zero weather in the mornings. My question is who gets up 2-4 hours before heading into work? Would a Christmas light timer work to start the heater so you dont have to do it at 2 a.m. or just leave it on all night?

randy

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[12Lariat21]

So according to many, the block heater should be plugged in at least two to four hours prior to starting in sub zero weather in the mornings. My question is who gets up 2-4 hours before heading into work? Would a Christmas light timer work to start the heater so you dont have to do it at 2 a.m. or just leave it on all night?

randy

Huh, I guess I've been fortunate to not hear the accounts of this 'many'....

I plug my in when I get home for the evening, engine still hot, and leave it plugged in all night. Seems to keep engine coolant at around 70deg by the time I'm leaving in the morning. Also, I park inside a garage.

I don't use it very often, only when in MN its going to be <10deg or so..and I remember to do it....so if leaving it in overnight shortens its life, I don't know that yet....

 

[12Lariat21]

Here is what the F150 owners manual says about it...

The heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours of energy per hour of use. The system does not have a thermostat. It achieves maximum temperature after approximately three hours of operation. Using the engine block heater longer than three hours does not improve system performance and unnecessarily uses electricity.

 

[{tpc}]

I didn't even realize this was an option! Is it limited to 5.0 models or can be optioned across the board?

 

[ak49rzrs]

I've done this for years using a timer. Just make sure the one you use is for outdoor use and is rated for the power draw.

 

[12Lariat21]

I didn't even realize this was an option! Is it limited to 5.0 models or can be optioned across the board?

It is an option during ordering, any engine can have it. You can also always have a dealer/shop install one at anytime.

Here is the OEM install location on the 3.5L

 

[ryanc111]

I've done this for years using a timer. Just make sure the one you use is for outdoor use and is rated for the power draw.

I've been doing the same but splurged for one that can connect to my wifi. I normally have it to start on a set schedule but can manually turn it on/off via an app. Super convenient.

The other tip is to get an extension cord that is rated for the cold weather. While most outdoor cords will work a cold temp rated one is so much easier to manipulate.

 

[ak49rzrs]

I've been doing the same but splurged for one that can connect to my wifi. I normally have it to start on a set schedule but can manually turn it on/off via an app. Super convenient.

The other tip is to get an extension cord that is rated for the cold weather. While most outdoor cords will work a cold temp rated one is so much easier to manipulate.

What brand/model WIFI one did you go with? I had looked at a few before I just bought my last one. And x2 on a good cord. I always go for the 30 amp cold temp ones.

I didn't even realize this was an option! Is it limited to 5.0 models or can be optioned across the board?

As stated by @12Lariat21 you can have one installed with a factory supplied one on any engine. I live in Ak so it's a standardized option that the dealerships have installed from the factory for all vehicles. At least from my experience.

 

[VRFlyer]

What brand/model WIFI one did you go with?

I use an outdoor KASA unit, controlled via app, etc.

Linky-Poo: https://a.co/d/h3TCOJZ

 

[ryanc111]

What brand/model WIFI one did you go with? I had looked at a few before I just bought my last one. And x2 on a good cord. I always go for the 30 amp cold temp ones.

This is the one I went with: https://minoston.com/products/minos...g-wifi-outlet-heavy-duty-plug-in-outlet-mp22w

 

[ak49rzrs]

Thanks guys.

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