Just a thought, would a low-cost engine heater reduce the warm-up time and significantly improve short trip MPG in my Prius(especially in cold weather)? I did some research and found one (Proheat Products Model 154) for under $50. It is a 125 watt heating pad that you stick to the underside of the oil pan. It seems like it should help.

 

I've given that some thought myself. Less trouble is a heated oil dipstick, but it won't work if any engine parts are plastic.

 

The pad is a semi permanent solution. It doesn't require raising the "bonnet" to remove it before driving out. All you need to do is remember to unplug it, which at my age may be an issue.

 

Some of the heaters use a lot more wattage, making a timer a good add-on.

 

I am installing a block heater into my HCH at the next oil change at 50k (which is when I would normally change my antifreeze anyway).

I just see the one day I let my wife drive the HCH an her dragging the electrical outlet, ripped away from the wall, from our barn ::sigh::. "Oh, I didn't know..."

 

Oh no... it's happening. Even in SC, I'm not immune. Had my first few experiences with decreased mpg as the temps have been inthe 40s in the mornings lately. MPGs were in the 40s, too! At least it'll never be quite as bad as you subzero folks in the North.

Don't block heaters come standard on Canadian cars? Any Cdn Prius or HCH owners have standard heaters?

 

Hi Jdenenberg:

___Yes, a block heater can significantly reduce your warm up time and increase your FE over a short distance vs. not having one.

___Good Luck

___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Waynegerdes@earthlink.net

 

Block heaters do not come standard in this part of Canada, but it's pretty mild in the south west, probably varies region to region. I've had a few used cars that had block heaters in them, so they are still a popular accessory around here since it does get reasonably cold for a few months.