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Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2013 13:41:45 GMT -6
I've heard some news that the Farmer's Almanac is calling for a colder than normal winter this year. This got me thinking of the past couple winters I've had my WRX where we get the near (or below) zero temperatures, and how hard it was to start the car. Knowing we may see those same (if not colder) near zero temperatures again. I was wondering if anyone here has seen the need for block heaters and/or battery warmers here in STL area. I'm considering it for the low cost (~$35-$40 for the block heater, ~$20-$30 for battery warmer) to help with cold starts. I've already read up on the install and run-time needed prior to start. At 400W, you don't want to run that all night and rack up your electric bill. All in all, I'm not sure if it would be that much benefit during those really cold nights since we're not in the arctic circle. I spent some good money on my turbo, and I'd like to do as much to prolong it's life as I can. Also, the battery warmer seems to be a good idea (in theory) as it will help keep your CCA in it's efficiency band, prolong battery life. I know it's debated to be a gimmick and/or a waste of money, but I honestly think it's a good idea. Either way, I'm just seeing what others think of this idea and if it is worth the money/effort to install for those overly cold nights, say at or below 20 to 30 degrees F.
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Post by besthaticouldo on Aug 26, 2013 14:39:22 GMT -6
Hm, i'm curious as well.
Personally curious how the install is and if it's even worth it. Probably wouldn't do the battery warmer. Just the block heater. Going to a Optima soon when audio is installed.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2013 20:58:52 GMT -6
The block heater is pretty easy from what I've read. There's a bung right on the block for it and it doesn't look that bad to get to. Here's the link to the heater install PDF.
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Post by dkdunn04 on Aug 27, 2013 8:22:18 GMT -6
We used to spend weeks up at our family cabin in Grand Lake Colorado, and it would get to -30 at night several nights in a row. I never had a problem starting my car. I'm running an optima red top and rotella t6. It is a cheap and easy thing to do though, so of it gives you piece of mind you should go for it.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 27, 2013 8:42:40 GMT -6
My thoughts exactly. It's cheap and easy to do, might as well try it. Do you switch oil weights from winter to summer, or just run the same year round?
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Post by dkdunn04 on Aug 27, 2013 9:13:48 GMT -6
I used to switch in my jeep, but never felt a need to in the STI.
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Post by banis325 on Sept 11, 2013 10:18:05 GMT -6
I actually have a block heater in my car, and it monumentally reduced warm up times in the winter. The radiator hoses were hot to the touch.
Now idk if it is needed but it does help,
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Post by Deleted on Sept 11, 2013 14:06:27 GMT -6
I'm definitely gonna get this before it gets cold this fall/winter. Block heater for sure. Battery warmer may not be needed. Thanks for the confirmation dude!
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