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Old 09-23-2013, 09:50 PM   #22 (permalink)
Blue Angel
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Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Previous Car - '12 Chevrolet Cruze Eco MT
Team Chevy
90 day: 44.29 mpg (US)

535d XDrive - '16 BMW 535d M-Sport
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Piwoslaw View Post
I assume that the engine is already insulated? Going to waste a lot of watts warming the outdoor air without insulation.
No more than any other conventional block heater installation I wouldn't think.

The key to the system's efficiency will be knowing how long to have it turned on for maximum effect and minimum waste. Once the engine is up to it's intended temperature, every minute that goes by after that will equal energy wasted.

Either way, there are several studies published advocating the use and benefits of engine block heaters from fuel economy, emissions and long-term engine durability standpoints. A few watt-hours wasted here and there should more than be made up for in fuel and emissions savings.
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