Keep It Plugged and For How Long??

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Here in Iowa its been hitting below zero almost everyday. I keep my truck parked outside - unfortunately. When I get home from work I plug it in right away and it stays plugged all night til it's ready to go back to work. In the morning it starts great but am I causing any damage by leaving it plugged in so long?

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1997 Ext Cab, 3500, 5 Speed, Mag-Htec Differential, Prime-Loc Bypass, Amsoil throughout, 4X4, beautiful blue

 

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Your fine leaving it plugged in all night. The only thing you will hurt is your electric bill. I plug mine in 3 hours before I leave for work, not as great as leaving it plugged all night but works well. I am currently shopping for a timer to have it come on automatically.

 

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Multiply the kw/hr rate on your power bill by . 7 to see how much plugging in will set you back per hour and go from there. Running the block heater all the time won't harm a thing,but just running it 3 hours before you anticipate starting is plenty even in the coldest weather. A household timer for under $15 will work just fine. It's also a good idea to keep a dry rag where you plug in for wiping the male plug end on your heater clean before plugging in,especially after driving on sloppy roads. A dirty/wet plug can cause a poor connection which creates heat and may melt the female end on your extension cord.


[This message has been edited by illflem (edited 12-25-2000). ]

 

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Buy a timer from the hardware store and plug it in. About 3 hours will do it.

RPh.