Cold winter temperatures can be hard on your vehicle, especially during early morning starts. You may have heard of a block heater but aren’t sure what it does or whether you actually need one. Understanding how a block heater works can help you decide if it’s a smart addition for your vehicle—especially during colder months in the Mid-Atlantic region.
At Nielsen Auto Care, we help drivers across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. prepare their vehicles for winter conditions. Here’s what you should know about block heaters.
What Is a Block Heater?
A block heater is a device installed in your vehicle’s engine that helps keep the engine warm when temperatures drop. It typically heats the engine coolant or engine block itself, preventing the engine from becoming excessively cold overnight. Block heaters are usually powered by electricity and are plugged in when the vehicle is parked.
By warming the engine before startup, a block heater makes it easier for the engine to turn over and begin circulating oil properly.
How a Block Heater Helps Your Vehicle
Cold temperatures cause engine oil to thicken, making it harder for the engine to lubricate itself during startup. A block heater helps reduce engine wear by allowing oil to flow more easily as soon as the engine starts.
Block heaters can also improve cold-start reliability, reduce strain on the battery and starter, and help your vehicle warm up faster—providing heat in the cabin sooner on cold mornings.
Do You Need a Block Heater in This Area?
Block heaters are most common in extremely cold climates where temperatures regularly fall well below freezing. In Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., block heaters are not always necessary, but they can still be beneficial during cold snaps or for certain vehicles.
Diesel engines, older vehicles, and cars parked outdoors overnight are more likely to benefit from a block heater. If you frequently experience hard starts in cold weather, a block heater may be a worthwhile option.
When a Block Heater Makes Sense
A block heater may be a good idea if your vehicle struggles to start in cold weather, if you drive a diesel vehicle, or if your car is exposed to overnight freezing temperatures. It can also help extend engine life by reducing cold-start wear.
Talk to Nielsen Auto Care About Winter Preparation
Not sure if a block heater is right for your vehicle? The experienced technicians at Nielsen Auto Care can evaluate your driving habits, vehicle type, and winter conditions to recommend the best solution.
Serving drivers throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., Nielsen Auto Care is here to help keep your vehicle reliable all winter long.