To Plug In or Not to Plug In
Though our neighbors to the north get much more frigid winter nights, Nebraska can hit shockingly low temps. This may mean trouble when you try to start your car in the morning.
The engine depends on chemical reactions to get started, and the colder it gets, the more difficult these reactions become. Luckily, a little piece of technology known as an engine block heater can alleviate some of the sluggishness.
Is it worth it?
Many engine block heaters can be purchased for under $100, and installed fairly inexpensively by a mechanic. They can be a low upfront investment. But then you will have to plug in your car at night and unplug before you can drive away. And if you have to park on the street, it may not even be an option for you.
Here are a few reasons to consider an engine block heater:
- The Environment – According to a UK site, Air-Quality.org, emissions from cars are greatest when the engines are cold. Keeping your engine warm and cozy can help mother nature.
- Wear and Tear – Your engine is less stressed when it can start easily. Keeping things warm under the hood provides for quicker starts on winter mornings, and therefore reduce unnecessary wear and tear.
- Your Comfort – The cabin will warm up quicker when the engine is warm. Frosty morning commutes could become more enjoyable if you spend less time waiting for your car to warm up.
Even though temperatures in Nebraska may not drop low enough to require the use of engine block heaters, these handy devices may still provide some benefits for area drivers.
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