Thanks to the pre-heater, the car engine will easily start even in severe frost. At the same time, for the operation of this device, you do not need to first start the engine. This means that fuel consumption is reduced to 0.1-0.5 liters per start.
Types of engine preheaters
- Autonomous. Such devices work by burning fuel in a built-in combustion chamber. If you want to buy an engine preheater that could work even in a place far from civilization, choose a model from this category.
The disadvantage of such devices is only one. They cannot be used in rooms where there is no ventilation system. - Electric. Such models operate from a 220V network and are connected to the engine using special cables. The devices are easy to install, and when used, the new vehicle warranty is maintained. The only disadvantage of these engine preheaters is the possibility of operation only when connected to an external power supply network.
Use the convenient search system
Starter heaters are a proven solution for car owners who live in regions with cold winters and leave their cars in open-air parking or garages (hangars) without heating.
The review presents the best models of preheaters, the use of which will avoid huge starting loads of the engine in cold weather and significantly extend its life. For the convenience of the reader, the information has been structured into typical installation categories. The position in the rating of each model was formed on the basis of the estimated characteristics of heaters and feedback from owners with real operating experience.
The best liquid preheaters
The indisputable advantage of liquid fuel heaters is complete independence from other energy sources and the time spent by the machine in the cold. Pre-heaters of this type burn the fuel that is in the car's tank. In order for the stove to work properly, the regular battery must be in good working order.
3 Binar-5S
The best domestic liquid heater
Country Russia
Average price: 24150 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The domestic company "Teplostar" has developed a whole line of autonomous heaters for gasoline and diesel cars. The Binar 5S Diesel model has ample opportunities. The device can work not only in the preheating mode, but also as a heating device. It is equipped with a GPS modem, which expands the possibilities of controlling the heater. The model is designed for diesel engines up to 4 liters.
Car owners who have decided to install Binar-5S for engine heating, in their reviews note such advantages of domestic development as compact dimensions, mounting and control variability. The device is distinguished by an affordable price, high quality workmanship, there is a self-diagnosis function.
2 Webasto Thermo Top Evo 5 petrol
The most popular autonomous heater
Country: Germany
Average price: 50720 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The heaters of this German concern have become so popular among motorists that the concept of preheater is often replaced by the single word Webasto. Many models are designed for specific vehicles. The device can be started by a timer, from a key fob or via a mobile phone. One of the most popular modifications was the Webasto Thermo Top Evo 5 heater, which is perfect for cars, jeeps and minibuses with an engine capacity of no more than 4 liters.
Car owners note the high performance of the device, long and trouble-free operation, unpretentiousness. The heater is completely self-contained, runs on gasoline and consumes 0.64 liters at peak load (almost half as much in support mode). In addition, in Russia there are many service centers where you can service and repair the popular Webasto.
The types of car preparation for a trip in winter presented in the table have both their advantages and disadvantages. This allows each owner to choose the option that best suits the prevailing operating conditions.
|
Advantages |
Flaws |
|
|
autorun |
Remote control and monitoring; An additional advantage of the two-in-one device is the presence of an alarm; The ability to configure the operation of autorun according to a schedule or engine temperature (the most relevant option for the northern regions). |
Reduced anti-theft security of the car (many insurance companies even refuse to cover the risks of theft or significantly increase the cost of the policy); Modern high-efficiency motors do not heat up at idle, which means a cold interior; Provides a sparing mode of starting the engine only in the mode of operation when the engine temperature drops. |
|
Autonomous starting preheater |
Does not depend on external energy sources; Provides heating of the passenger compartment and engine fluids; |
High cost and maintenance costs; Runs on fuel from a car tank; |
|
Electric preheater |
Affordable cost; Easy to install and operate; Different devices are required to heat the car interior and the engine; Increases the life of the motor by reducing the load at start. |
Availability of "step-by-step" access to the AC network; In the absence of electricity, it will not be able to ensure the preparation of the car for the trip. |
1 EBERSPACHER HYDRONIC B4 WS
Excellent combination of price and quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 36200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Eberspacher models are rightfully considered the best liquid autonomous heaters. They combine high quality and value. One of the most common heaters was the Eberspächer Hydronik B4WS 12V. It is installed by many automakers on passenger cars with engines of more than 2 liters. The heater power ranges from 1.5 to 4.3 kW. The range includes modifications for gasoline engines, as well as devices for heating diesel engines.
Consumers note the reliability and durability of the device. It is easy to operate and convenient to use. Due to the wide distribution of heaters, many car services are engaged in their repair and restoration. Of the minuses, car owners note the high price of the device.
The best electric heaters
Electric heaters powered by 220 V are easy to install and low price. The only drawback of the device is the need for a household power supply close to the car. The devices are suitable for cars that spend frosty nights in garages or boxes.
3 Longfei 3 kW
The most affordable price
Country: China
Average price: 2350 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The Chinese Lunfei preheater is designed to increase the temperature of the coolant in a car using a household electrical outlet. One of the most popular devices was Longfei 3 kW. The liquid is heated using a heating element, and antifreeze is pumped through the cooling system circuit thanks to a centrifugal pump. The device requires a 220 V power supply. The heater can be installed on any cars and trucks. The model is equipped with a thermostat, which allows you to maintain a given temperature regime of the coolant.
Buyers speak flatteringly about products from the Middle Kingdom. The only downside is the short cord. But the device can be independently installed under the hood, it has small dimensions and weight.
2 Satellite NEXT 1.5 kW with pump
Optimal ratio of quality and price
Country Russia
Average price: 2550 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
An excellent inexpensive solution for heating the engine of a car or minibus. You can also install Sputnik NEXT on your own - a simple scheme for integrating it into the engine cooling system is conducive to this. Thanks to forced circulation, even in severe frosts, the temperature of the antifreeze rises above zero.
Owners consider this model a worthy alternative to more expensive pre-start engine heaters. Judging by the reviews, the equipment performs its function quite effectively. The presence of simple automation will not overheat the antifreeze above the permissible limits (95 ° C), but will turn off the heater for a while. In operation, the device is simple and unpretentious, and maintenance requires minimal time costs. Thanks to the circulation, partial heating of the passenger compartment is also achieved (dashboard and windshield area).
1 Severs+ with pump 2 kW
Ease of installation. Presence of a mechanical timer
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.8
The domestic manufacturer CJSC "Leader" produces pre-heaters under the Severs brand. The new generation device was the Severs + 2 kW model, equipped with a pump. This design provides fast and uniform heating of the coolant, both in cars and trucks. The manufacturer has equipped the device with a thermostat, protection against overheating, which makes its operation comfortable and safe.
Motorists easily cope with the installation of the heater, the kit includes detailed instructions. It is very convenient to set the device to turn on using a daily mechanical timer.
The best fuel heaters
One of the main problems of a diesel car in winter is fuel waxing. The lower the temperature, the more the diesel fuel thickens, clogging the pores of the filter. An effective way to maintain fluidity is to install a fuel heater.
3 ATK PT-570
Most Economical
Country Russia
Average price: 4702 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
A reliable heater will prevent paraffinization of diesel fuel in severe frosts and will allow you to continue driving, regardless of weather conditions. Powered by the car's cooling system and requires virtually no maintenance. Tapping into the fuel line can be carried out by an experienced driver on their own - the procedure is not at all complicated and will require a minimum of time.
The owners in their reviews highlight the simplicity of the equipment, the lack of the need to connect to the car's on-board network. With the help of this heater, it becomes possible to use summer diesel fuel at temperatures down to -40 °C. In addition, the heated fuel enters the tank and moves further through the system in a heated state, without forming paraffin crystals, which increases the service life of the lines. In addition, significant fuel savings (up to 10%) are achieved, and drivers value the PT-570 fuel heater the most for this.
2 EPTF-150 Ya (YaMZ)
best fuel filter heater
Country Russia
Average price: 1305 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Based on the experience of domestic motorists, SPE "Platan" has released a series of fuel filter heaters. This device prevents the formation of paraffin in the filter element of diesel cars. Thanks to the heating of the fuel in the filter, it is possible not only to facilitate the start of the engine, but also to somewhat expand the limit of the use of diesel fuel towards lower temperatures. One of the effective models is EPTF-150 Ya (YaMZ). The device is mounted inside the fuel filter, which provides a quick warm-up of the diesel engine.
Motorists speak positively about the efficiency of the heater. A semiconductor heater can warm up even a frozen filter in 5-10 minutes. The device continues to ensure the filterability of diesel fuel while the car is moving.
1 NOMACON PP-101 12V
The best instantaneous fuel heater
Country: Belarus
Average price: 4700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Simple and effective devices for heating diesel fuel were created by Belarusian developers from Nomacon. One of the most popular devices was Nomacon PP-101. It crashes into the fuel line, and the heating comes from the on-board network. The heater can be controlled automatically or manually. Before starting the engine, it is enough to briefly turn on the heating for 5-10 minutes to ensure the filterability of diesel fuel. When driving, the device is powered by a generator.
Consumers note the unpretentiousness and durability of the device. It is easy to install it under the hood yourself, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
The best interior heaters
This category presents the best devices that will allow the owner to forget what it means to drive a frozen car. Heaters will provide not only comfortable operation in the winter months, but also save the owner the most precious resource - time.
3 Calix Slim Line 1400w
High quality equipment
Country: Sweden
Average price: 7537 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The device does not have an operating mode and is automatically regulated according to the temperature indicators of the passenger compartment air. The heater does an excellent job and is the optimal solution for most cars and small crossovers. The device has a special stand and can be placed anywhere in the cabin (as a rule, it is placed in the area of the central armrest or on the driver's seat).
The heater is easy to operate, has protection against overheating and short circuit. In their reviews, the owners note the rather compact size of the device and its high efficiency. The automatic control of the heater operation is also positively noted - there are no fears that with prolonged use the air in the cabin will be unacceptably overheated.
2 DEFA Termini 2100 (DEFA connector) 430060
The most powerful electric heater
Country: Norway
Average price: 9302 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
An excellent solution for heating the interior of a large car, jeep and even the cab of a truck. The electric heater is connected to a conventional network with a voltage of 220 volts and has two heating modes. The built-in fan provides air circulation in salon and its fast heating. Sharing with systems of preheaters of the engine of this firm and remote control through the SmartStart panel is possible.
Owners who decide to install DEFA Termini heaters in their cars are more than satisfied - a cold steering wheel and windows frozen from the inside are a thing of the past. Thanks to the built-in sensors, the cabin air will be warmed up to a comfortable level, and with a further increase in temperature, it will automatically turn off (55 ° C inside the device). Judging by the reviews, this device cannot be compared with ceramic heaters powered by the on-board network (their power is clearly not enough to fully warm up the car interior).
1 Teplostar PLANAR-44D-24-GP-S
The best interior heating
Country Russia
Average price: 23900 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The device is an autonomous system that runs on diesel fuel and is a more affordable analogue of Webasto heaters. It can be put on any type of transport - it perfectly warms up the interior of a passenger car to a minibus, and will also cope with heating the body space in small cargo vans.
In the reviews of the owners, the compactness of the equipment is noted. Installation is quite simple and can be done on your own. When installing on cars with a gasoline engine, a small fuel tank is required. Also positively noted is the presence of a remote control with which you can adjust the temperature of the cabin. At maximum power (4 kW), the PLANAR-44D will consume a little less than 0.5 liters of fuel per hour. With normal heating or a small car, the consumption will be only 0.12 liters of diesel fuel per hour.
In what? 90 percent of motorists start the engine, not suspecting that as a result, its wear increases, starting becomes more difficult, battery fails etc. The problem is exacerbated in winter, in cold climates. However, there is a good way out of the situation - to use engine preheating, which for a real Russian winter is a solid plus in every respect.
Electric engine heating
If earlier the heating of the internal combustion engine, due to the operation of the engine at idle, was considered the only effective option, although not without drawbacks, today it is clearly inferior to the new method. And first of all, this concerns the side, negative consequences of natural heating.
Table of models of electric heaters
| Block | branch pipes | Remote | External |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Defa" or "Kalix" - power 0.4-0.75 kW, price from 4 thousand rubles | "Lestar" - power 0.5-0.8 kW, price from 1.7 thousand rubles | "Severs-M" - power 1-3 kW, price from 2 thousand rubles | Keenovo flexible heating plate 0.25 kW 220 V, price - 3650 rubles. |
| Domestic "Homeless" - power 0.5-0.6 kW, price from 1.5 thousand rubles | "Alliance" - power 0.7-0.8 kW, price from 1 thousand rubles | "Start-M" - power 1-3 kW, price from 1.9 thousand rubles | "Keenovo" - power 0.1 kW 12 V, price - 3610 rubles. |
| Domestic "Start-Mini" - power 0.5-0.6 kW, price from 1 thousand rubles | "Start M1 / M2" - power 0.7-0.8 kW, price from 1.4 thousand rubles | "Alliance" - power 1.5-3 kW, price from 1.6 thousand rubles | Hotstart AF15024 - power 0.15 kW 220 V, price - 9700 rubles. |
| DEFA, heaters of the 100th series 0.5-0.65 kW, price 3.4 thousand rubles | "Siberia M" - power 0.6 kW, price from 1 thousand rubles | "Xin Ji" (China) - power 1.8 kW, price from 1.5 thousand rubles | "Hotstart" - power 0.25 kW 220 V, price - 9700 rubles. |
The most democratic in terms of price are electric preheaters. They are easy to maintain, and do not fail even in the most severe frost. However, they have the only drawback - they need a 220 V socket. Although the external ones from the Keenovo company also have a heater powered by the 12 V on-board network, the cost is from 3.5 thousand rubles.
Effective heating of the motor is possible only with the help of special devices that act directly through the cooling system circuit. So experts say, citing a lot of facts as evidence.
Block
For our motorists, in terms of affordable prices, heaters that are built into the cylinder block are suitable. They are also quite simple in terms of design, as they are endowed only with a connector and a heating element. Other attachments, clamps and additional components are not provided in such a heater.
Preheater Defa
The heaters of devices built into the business center are not very powerful, 400-750 W is the maximum. They do not give a quick result, and they are powered by a stationary 220 V / 50 Hz outlet, so you can use the heater mounted in the engine block only in the garage or by throwing an extension cord near the house. On the other hand, due to the fact that the BC is heated, the engine warms up in the center and evenly.
Advantages of built-in block heaters:
- One of advantages of built-in heaters is ability to work for a long time. Due to their low power, it is not necessary to constantly monitor them - they will not spoil the antifreeze, so you can leave them operational all night or day. If it is nevertheless necessary, it is recommended to control the heating process, at least for household, economical purposes. use a regular mechanical timer. It is inexpensive and versatile in operation. Of the shortcomings - buggy in the cold.
- It should also be noted safety of use. As a rule, the kit includes a heat-insulating fabric that does not allow the insulation of nearby wires to melt and the energy to spread into the surrounding space, thus increasing the efficiency of the device.
- Easy to install, also by the way, one of the advantageous features of such heaters.
Longfei Block Heater
There are only two disadvantages:
Long heating time and the need for a fixed socket 220 volt. Since, for example, at an ambient temperature of about 0 ° C, a 600 W heater will heat up the liquid for one hour. If the temperature is -10 ° C, then the time will increase to two hours. And if you buy a budget one with a power of 0.5 kW, then even longer.
Today, among the numerous models of the budget segment of built-in heaters, electrical equipment from Defa and Kalix stand out. They cost, complete with a wire and a plug, no more than 4 thousand rubles.
The system can be easily supplemented with all sorts of useful equipment. For example, you can add a start timer, a remote control, a battery charger, a cabin fan heater, and more. However, this will already cost more than 25 thousand rubles, not counting the funds for installation.
There are also domestic block heaters, but their use is limited. For VAZ engines, a device with a price of 1.3 thousand rubles is suitable. You can buy Start-mini equipment for an even lower price, which is suitable not only for domestic cars, but also Japanese or Korean ones, such as Toyota or Hyundai.
We present for you popular models of built-in heaters.
| Model | Description and features | |
|---|---|---|
| "Start Mini" | Voltage 220 V, power 600 W, installed instead of the technological plug of the block with a bore diameter of 35 mm. The seating depth is 11 mm, the body height is 50 mm. The heater is suitable for cars: Toyota with 4A-FE, 5A-FE, 7A-FE, 3S-FE, 4S-FE, 5S-FE, 1G-FE, 1GR engine; Hyundai Accent with G4EC -1.5L engine; Hyundai Elantra XD with G4EC -1.5L and G4ED -1.6L engine; Hyundai Tucson with G4GC -2.0L engine; Hyundai Trajet with G4GC -2.0L engine. | 1300 rubles |
| DEFA, heaters of the 100th series (from 101 to 199) | Power is 0.5 ... 0.65 kW, voltage 220 V, bore diameter 35 mm, weight 0.27 kg. | 3400 rubles |
| Calix-RE 163 550W | Power - 550 W, voltage - 220 V, suitable for use with Duramax DAIHATSU Rocky 2.8D, 2.8 TD/FIAT Argenta 2000iE, 120iE/ FIAT Croma 2.0 turbodiesel/FIAT Daily diesel/FIAT Ducato 1.9 D, TD/1987-1998/ 2.5 diesel, turbodiesel/1995/FIAT Regatta/Regata diesel/FIAT Ritmo 130 TC/diesel/FIAT Tempra 1.9 turbodiesel/FIAT Tipo 1.9 diesel, turbodiesel/FIAT Uno diesel, turbodiesel/FORD/NEW HOLLAND FORD 1900, HYUNDAI H-100 2.5 D/1993-1998/D4BA, IVECO Daily 2.8Tdi/2002/diesel/turbodiesel, MITSUBISHI Galant 2.3 turbodiesel/ MITSUBISHI L200 2.2 diesel 2WD/2.5 diesel 2WD/MITSUBISHI L300 2.5 diesel 2WD /2.5 diesel 4WD/MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo 9 2.0 16V / 2006- /4G63, MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo VI, EVO VIII 2.0 16V / 4G63. MITSUBISHI Pajero 2.3 turbodiesel /2.5 turbodiesel, SEAT Malaga 1.7D. | 5000 rubles |
| Calix-RE 167 550W | Power - 550 W, voltage - 220 V, suitable for such cars: Matiz 0.8 / A08S, 1.0 / ¤B10S, Spark 1.0 / 2010- / B10D1, 1.2 / 2010- / B12D1, NISSAN Monteringssats, 300 ZX / VG30, Almera 2.0 D/1995-/DA20, Bluebird 1.6/1984-/CA16, 1.8/1984-/CA18 1.8 turbo/1984-/CA18, 2.0/1984-/CA20, Cherry 1.0/1982-/E10, 1.3/1982-/¤ E13, 1.5, 1.5 turbo / 1982- / ¤E15, 1.7 diesel / CD17, Patrol 2.8TD / RD28T, Prairie 1.5 / E15, 1.8 / CA18, 2.0 / CA20, Stanza 1.6 / ¤CA16, 1.8 / CA18, Sunny 1.3 / 1984- / E13, 1.4 12V / 1989-1991 / 1.5 / 1984- / ¤E15, 1.6 / -1988 / ¤E16, 1.6 12V / 1989-1991 / ¤GA16, 1.6 GTI 16V / ¤CA16, 1.7D / ¤CD17 1.8 GTI 16V / CA18 Monteringssats LT 31D/Perkins, VOLVO BM/VCE/VOLVO CE MonteringssatsEC 15C-/D1.1, EC18C-/2010-/D 1.1 EC20C - / 2010- / D1.1, EC27C - / 2010- / D1.6 EC35C - / 2010- / D1.6, ECR 28 - / ECR 38 - / ECR 58 - / ECR 88 - / ECR48C - / 2010 - / ¤D2.2, ECR58 Plus - / ¤D3.1, ECR88 Plus - / D3.1 | 4900 rubles |
| Calix-RE 153A 550W | Voltage - 220 V, power - 550 W, works with the following cars: FORD Probe 2.5i V6 24V / HONDA Accord 2.0i-16 / -1989 / B20A, HONDA Legend 2.5, 2.7 / HONDA Prelude 2.0i -16V / 1986-1991 /B20A, MAZDA 2 1.3 (DE) / 2008- / ZJ, 1.5 (DE) / 2008- / ZY, MAZDA 3 1.4 (BK) / 2004- / ZJ, 1.6 (BK) / 2004- / Z6, MAZDA 323 2.0 i V6 24V / MAZDA 626 2.5i V6 / MAZDA MX-3 1.8i 24V V6 / MAZDA MX-6 2.5i 24V V6 / MAZDA Xedos 6 2.0i 24V V6 / MAZDA Xedos 9 2.0i 24V V6 /K8-ZE, 2.5i 24V V6 /ROVER 825, 827-/-1995/ | 7200 rubles |
branch pipes
In addition to devices built into the business center, there are also systems for in-section installation of thick pipes. They differ in the presence of an adapter case. Installation does not carry any special complexity, the return is not bad. However there is a minus– electric heaters from this series are designed for standard nozzle diameters.
Defa and Kalix produce not only block heaters, but also branch pipe heaters. They are also made in our country, sold at very low prices. But such options for heaters are intended only for VAZ, UAZ or Gaz models of cars.
There are also universal models equipped with a hardened case. However, they are hardly suitable for foreign cars.
Electric heaters have gained the greatest popularity in our country, as they are structurally easy to install and universalized. Them easy to cut into the contour using attachments. They are equipped with powerful heaters, the power of which reaches 2-3 kW.
Remote
Of particular note are electric heaters, called remote. They are more complex in design, they imply the presence of hoses, thermostats, clamps, etc. They are produced by domestic manufacturers such as Severs-M, Alliance and many others.
Longfei Heater Installation (Xin Ji)
A foreign manufacturer of such equipment is also popular in Russia. This is the US Hotstart TPS. The equipment costs at least 6.8 thousand rubles, but it can only be purchased on order.
Models with forced coolant circulation deserve special attention among electric heaters. The options for electric heaters were discussed above. with natural circulation.
So, the most famous among this series are systems from the same American Hotstart (price 23 thousand rubles). There are also cheap domestic options, costing no more than 2.4 thousand rubles. Chinese heaters are also known, such as Xin Ji, at a price of 1.5 thousand rubles. Their power does not exceed 1.8 kW.
Disadvantages of electric heaters:
- Requires a 220V household outlet.
- Mandatory opening of the hood to access the fork. These difficulties sin the old Russian models of heaters. Modern ones have bumper connectors.
- The reliability of some models is not impressive. Cases of domestic and Chinese heaters are especially weak, they let antifreeze through and are leaky. An experienced installer initially puts the cover on the sealant.
- Low quality of additional equipment (again, we are talking about sets of Russian or Chinese production). It is advisable to replace attachments with imported hoses, plastic adapters with duralumin, flimsy holders with strong and wide clamps.
Advantages of electric heaters:
- Installation of heaters is inexpensive, even in the capital's car services. The approximate price is 1.5 thousand rubles. You can easily put it on your own, but you can’t do without specific knowledge.
- The widest model range and unpretentiousness in operation.
heating plates
Also recently, the so-called heating plates, which are installed on the engine housing, cylinders, crankcase, and so on, have become increasingly popular. These heaters are used not only in cars, but also in other equipment - generator sets, microprocessor technology, engines of boats, diesel locomotives and electric locomotives, and many others.
The heating plates work on the basis of heat electric heaters (TEHs). Most of them can be connected both to a stationary network with a voltage of 220 V / 50 Hz, and to the vehicle's on-board electrical network (12 V DC). Power can be different, the interval is from 100 to 1500 watts. And the temperature developed by various plates is +90°С…+180°С. As for installation, the devices are attached with an adhesive film (the surface must first be cleaned and degreased).
Electric heating plates must not be used to heat batteries. Other devices are used for these purposes.
A feature of the heating plates is that they are designed for continuous operation. That is, with their help it is impossible to quickly warm up / heat up the engine or its individual elements. Although there are separate high-power models that work with a time relay.
The advantages of heating plates include:
- Economy. Using electricity will cost you less than using liquid fuels.
- Reliability and durability. Most electric heating plates do not need repair and routine inspections, they do not need to be contacted by service centers. In this case, manufacturers, as a rule, establish significant warranty periods.
- Easy to install. Most heating plates are simply glued to the heated surface using the adhesive film that comes with the heater. Installation can be done independently, without seeking help from a service station.
- Abrasion resistance. The surface of the heating plate is covered with a special material that is resistant not only to abrasion, but also to significant mechanical damage.
- Safety of use. This applies to both the driver and the elements of the car itself. The heating plates are well protected from moisture and small particles getting inside them (the degree of dust and moisture protection is IP65 for most models).
As for the disadvantages of heating plates, they should include:
- High price. The payoff for the benefits described above is high cost.
- Battery wear. Due to the fact that the plates use electricity from the battery to operate, the driver must constantly monitor the condition and performance of the latter. Up to replacing it with a more capacious and / or new one.
However, as practice shows, electric heating plates are very convenient to use, and their purchase justifies itself, especially in regions with a cold climate. Therefore, we would recommend that you, if possible, buy heating plates and use them for installation as an alternative to conventional engine preheaters.
Now we present to your attention several popular plates used by car owners.
| Models | Description and features | Price as of autumn 2017 |
|---|---|---|
| Keenovo Flexible Heating Plate 100W 12V | Specific power - 0.52 W / cm². Maximum temperature +180°С. A feature of the plate is the presence of a high-temperature self-adhesive surface on one side of the plate, as well as the presence of a porous surface on the other side to reduce heat loss. The size is 127×152mm with a 5mm jaw. The plate is designed for autonomous pre-heating of an engine with a working volume of up to 3 liters, it has an adhesive layer that provides maximum adhesion between the plate and the surface at elevated temperatures. The plate has an additional layer of thermal insulation in the form of a porous sponge, which provides heating of the oil layer necessary for a warm start of the engine in about 15 minutes of operation. | 3610 rubles |
| The maximum heating temperature is +90°C. There is an additional rheostat for setting the temperature. Ideal for installation on the crankcase and engine block, hydraulic and transmission elements, as the dimensions are 127 × 152 mm. The coating of the plates is resistant to friction. Supplied with 100 cm cable as standard. | 3650 rubles | |
| Keenovo Flexible Heating Plate 250W 220V | Maximum temperature +150°С. Dimensions 127×152 mm. Ideal for installation on the crankcase and engine block, hydraulic and transmission elements, various types of pumps. The coating of the plates is resistant to friction. Supplied as standard with a 100 cm cable for power from a 220 V socket | 3650 rubles |
| Hotstart AF10024 | Power supply 220 V, power 100 W, dimensions 101 × 127 mm. | 7900 rubles |
| Hotstart AF15024 | Power supply 220 V, power 150 W, dimensions 101 × 127 mm. | 9700 rubles |
| Hotstart AF25024 | Power supply 220 V, power 250 W, dimensions 127 × 152 mm. | 9700 rubles |
Autonomous heaters
Otherwise, they are called fuel, as they operate on fuel. The principle of their operation is reduced to the following: the pump pumps gasoline or diesel fuel from the fuel tank into the combustion chamber. The mixture is ignited by a hot ceramic pin (the latter requires a small fraction of the current to heat up, unlike a metal one).
Eberspacher Hydronic D4W installed on a car
As a result of heating the heater, warm liquid circulates throughout the system, giving off heat to the internal combustion engine and the furnace radiator. As soon as the temperature reaches more than 70 gr. Celsius, the stove includes a semi-mode and a standby mode. That is, the device does not operate at full capacity, however, when the temperature drops below 20 gr. the cycle repeats, which explains the name - autonomous heater.
The autonomous heating system of an automobile engine has different modes of operation. For example, summer, when the air inside the car is blown occasionally by a fan. If such a system is involved, the presence of an air conditioner is not needed, because it is easy to lower the temperature in normal mode.
The inclusion of an autonomous heater is carried out in different ways, but the timer has been and remains the simplest. It is located inside the machine, it can be programmed and set for any duration of operation.
Turning on with a timer is very convenient. For example, if a motorist goes to work every day, then the timer can be set to the same turn-on time.
How Webasto Thermo Top Evo works
If a variable schedule is more suitable, then it is better to use the remote control to turn it on. It is capable of operating within a radius of up to 1 km. In other words, the heater can be turned on from the balcony of a multi-storey building.
Another control option is the GSM module. You can use it from a regular smartphone, controlling the operation of the module through commands. Theoretically, the GSM module can be connected from anywhere in the world, as long as the car is in the coverage area.
The most popular devices of this type in our country are Webasto and Eberspascher. Their models designed for both foreign and domestic cars with different types and sizes of engines.
Of the Russian manufacturers, Teplostar loudly announced itself, producing products that are almost twice cheaper than their foreign counterparts.
Table of autonomous heater models
Disadvantages of autonomous heaters:
- Difficulty of installation. This is not an electric heater that you can easily install with your own hands.
- High cost. Even the basic models are an order of magnitude higher, without additional components. In addition, the installation of such equipment is highly appreciated - at least 8-10 thousand rubles. And the more difficult it will be to find a place under the hood for installation, the installation will be more expensive.
- Battery dependency. You should always keep a recharged and reliable battery under the hood.
- Some models are dependent on fuel quality. It is recommended to pay attention to this, regularly carry out diagnostics and cleaning.
Advantages of autonomous heaters:
- Offline mode, no need to depend on external power sources.
- Super efficiency and the possibility of long continuous operation. On cold winter days, the interior of the car and the internal combustion engine can be heated up to operating temperature at a fuel consumption of less than 1 l / h in just 40-50 minutes.
- A wide range of ways to engage and program.
It will now be much easier to make a choice in favor of one or another heater. If financial resources allow, then it is better to install a standalone option. For other cases, you can choose a good and quite effective electric heater.
In winter, the driver faces many problems. First of all, they are associated with poor starting of the car engine. In order to solve this problem, experts advise installing special preheaters. These devices are able not only to guarantee the engine start in any weather, but also significantly reduce the emission of exhaust gases into the atmosphere. Thus, the driver has the opportunity to take care of the environment. Some models of starting heaters save the owner quite a lot of fuel due to their action. Direct friction between engine parts is greatly reduced. At the same time, the wear of important elements occurs much more slowly, which positively affects the performance of all nodes. The most inexpensive type of engine preheater is electric, built into the cylinder block, or placed next to it. In fact, this is a modified electric boiler. Only its main task is not to bring the liquid to a boil, but to heat it to such a state that the engine can start quickly in the cold season.
Everything is clear with this view: the power of the devices is only 400-750 W. Their purpose is to maintain a certain temperature regime directly in the cylinder block. In addition to the heating element and the wire leading to the 220-volt outlet, there are no additional sensors, pipes and other devices here. The pipe leading to the radiator is simply cut and a heater is inserted from both ends. Is a “boiler” with a wire not enough for you? Then it will not be superfluous to buy an ordinary timer, if accuracy up to every second is so fundamentally important to you. The most famous Russian heaters of this type are Homeless (from 1,200 rubles), Start-mini (from 950 rubles). The mentioned devices are mainly intended for cars of domestic brands, such as VAZ, GAZ, UAZ, but are there any obstacles for domestic craftsmen?
In fairness, it should be noted that our motorists still consider a car primarily a luxury on which too much money has already been spent. People are somehow not ready to “spoil” their iron horses with expensive heaters, and therefore the popularity of models is growing, the cost of which does not exceed 2,000 rubles. The same cohort includes models with the names "Lestar", "Start M1", "Start M2", "Siberia-M", "Alliance".
What determines the power of the preheater?
First of all, the power of the preheater is associated with the limiting frequency of the device. Usually this parameter lies within 50 Hz, however, its deviations are possible. Additionally, the piston diameter is taken into account. Its size ultimately affects the rate of circulation of the flow. The higher the operating power of the device, the faster the temperature rises. Usually in the engine antifreeze is able to warm up to 60 degrees. The average heating time is 3 minutes. In this case, much also depends on the location of the preheater. As mentioned earlier, it must be securely fastened and not blown.Scheme of the starting heater "Webasto"
The Webasto model has a standard installation diagram. The pre-heater of the engine in the central part has a tubular electric heater. To connect it to the impeller, a special sleeve is installed. The thermostat in this case is located at the top of the structure. Fuel is supplied from the side of the cylinders. Thus, the circulation flow of the device is quite high. The main chamber of the device is made of stainless steel, so the temperature keeps high. There is a pump under the control box. As a result, the power of the preheater can be adjusted.Device model "Webasto 220V"
The engine preheater Webasto 220V differs from other devices by a volumetric heat exchanger. It is located immediately above the tubular electric heater. In this case, the piston has a small diameter. However, the impeller takes up a lot of space. The fuel supply to the system is controlled by a special sensor. In order to change the limiting temperature of the liquid, there is a control unit. In this regard, many models are equipped with a self-diagnosis system. Additionally, the engine preheater Webasto 220V is available with fans. In this case, they cope with overheating of the main camera of the device. Installing a heater with your own hands does not require much time and some special knowledge. Almost every motorist who knows where the main working components of the car are located will be able to cope with the task. The installation process itself will take no more than 3 hours. But if there is no certainty that the installation will be performed normally, it is better, after all, to visit a technical station. In the case of self-installation, you should follow the detailed instructions. As a rule, it comes with the device.
What power heater should I buy?
0.5kW- heating element power, which can be used in the parking lot to maintain a constant engine temperature. This power is not enough to warm up the engine in severe frost. 1kW- heating element power, which is recommended to be selected for 8kl engines VAZ 2110, VAZ 2114 1.5kW- heating element power, which is recommended to be selected for 16kl engines VAZ 2110, LADA Priora, Kalina How long does it take for an engine to warm up to start a car in cold weather? The time is selected experimentally and depends on many factors (engine type, electric heater power, air temperature, etc.). Approximately: in order to start the VAZ 2110 16kl engine without problems in frost -30C using a 1.5 kW electric heater, you need to count on a heating time of 30-60 minutes. Of course, you can turn on the engine heater for a longer time, then the engine will be already hot, but there will be no boiling.
Winter time is quite problematic for car operation. During this period, lubricants, technical fluids and fuels have an increased viscosity due to a decrease in ambient temperature. To bring them to an optimal state, it is recommended to use a 220V engine preheater.
This practice will reduce the power load on the mating structural elements. The engine will start faster, and the active wear of parts will also decrease. Installing a 220V engine heater is recommended from the time when the ambient temperature drops to +10 C. The presence of an additional heating unit will allow you to start the engine already warmed up.
Effective electric engine heating in winter is based on an increase in the temperature of the coolant (antifreeze), which circulates through the technical channels of the cylinder block. The installed additional equipment reliably copes with its task, ensuring the high-quality operation of internal combustion engines for various types of vehicles:
- cars;
- trucks of various modifications;
- bus park.
Manufacturers offer designs of their models that can be equipped with an electric pump, or do not have such a unit in a cheaper version. In any case, this equipment needs to be connected to a household electrical outlet. Often it is used in covered paid parking lots or in a personal garage. Less commonly, open parking lots have remote stationary racks with sockets.
Products manufactured by popular manufacturers have a high degree of protection. You can leave them on all night or day and not be afraid of any accidents. A modern car engine heater 220V is equipped with an automatic heating shutdown unit when the set temperature is reached. As soon as the working fluid cools down to the threshold level again, the device will start again.
The right choice of product
Before installing a 220V engine heater, it is necessary to determine its parameters. In such a situation, you need to focus on the presence / absence of a pump and on the power characteristics of a particular product. The latter are selected in accordance with the volume of the engine. Common to all designs are the following advantages:
- fuel is saved, which is spent on heating without a heater;
- high degree of fire safety;
- simple operation;
- compactness.
Even the largest built-in specimens with modest dimensions weigh only a couple of kilograms.
The presence of a pump in the device
Models with heaters with electric pumps allow you to drive liquid through the channels during the heating process. Such functionality provides a higher efficiency of thermal equipment. This saves time to achieve the specified parameters.
After being connected to the mains, the heating element built into the heater body starts to warm up. In parallel, the electric pump starts, sending warm antifreeze to the channels through the outlet pipe. Cool liquid flows from the cylinder block through the inlet to the heating element. Thus, overflow is carried out in a closed circuit.
It is important to know that the design of the preheater includes a thermostat that periodically turns off / on the circulation and heating, keeping the temperature of the liquid in a given range.
Usually, it takes about 30-50 minutes for two-watt heater models to reach +70 C. The exact time directly depends on the ambient temperature and external weather factors, which include the presence of wind in an open parking lot, precipitation, etc. In garage or box conditions, the car warms up faster. After that, the car is ready for operation.
The advantages of the pump design are the following factors:
- heating takes less time than pumpless samples;
- the temperature increase occurs more evenly with the entire motor, since the channels cover the entire block;
- temperature deformations during the initial cycle are not allowed.
The disadvantages of these products are the following features:
- additional power of the device is spent on moving the liquid, therefore, for most models, this parameter cannot be lower than 1.5 kW, otherwise it will not be possible to bring the liquid to the desired operating mode;
- the presence of a circulation pump increases the cost of the product, and also increases the likelihood of its breakdown due to the presence of an additional unit;
- the appliance consumes more energy, which affects operating costs;
- some models require the pump to be connected to an additional 12 V supply, such as a battery.
A popular model of this type is the Severs + apparatus. It is offered to customers in a two-kilowatt modification. The device comes complete with a universal mounting kit. A detailed written instruction and important parts for connecting to the motor are included. Device characteristics:
- dimensions of the finished assembly 86x86x180 mm;
- connection cord 150 cm;
- power 2 kW;
- current consumption 220 V 50 Hz;
- outer coating with anodized protective aluminum;
- built-in thermostat that operates at 80 C;
- thermal shutdown occurs at 140 C;
- hermetically sealed housing excludes the penetration of the heated liquid to the electrical components.
The device is certified and meets all electrical safety requirements.
Design features:
- the horizontal type of installation does not allow the possibility of penetration of antifreeze into the electrical part, increasing the safety of operation;
- the built-in ball valve forms a flow for the circulation of liquid through the heating element in the right direction;
- the thermostat keeps the liquid in the desired mode;
- The thermal switch is an additional protection against possible incorrect operation of the thermostat.
We recommend choosing models with a bumper connector. This feature allows you to quickly connect equipment without opening the hood. The plug is usually attached in such a situation behind the grille or in the bumper area.
Without built-in pump
Customers have access to heating the cooling system before starting the engine 220V in the configuration without an electric pump. It is the most common type of this equipment. Such units do not require additional maintenance, but at the same time they have a high degree of reliability.
The advantages of pumpless models include factors:
- stable performance in any conditions;
- connection exclusively to a household outlet;
- ease of installation of the apparatus to the cylinder block;
- reduced power consumption of the device.
The disadvantages of such a scheme are:
- circulation is carried out solely due to the temperature difference, passing mainly in a small circle;
- longer warm-up time required
- you need to carefully choose the model, as there are low-quality specimens.
An example of such models is Hotstart products of the CB, CL, SB, SL series. They are in demand in cars with diesel engines of high power. The housing is made of durable die-cast aluminum alloy. Devices are connected from a network of 220 V or 380 V.
Installation method for cars
Installation of a 220V engine preheater is carried out at the lowest point of the cylinder block housing. This part contains a screw plug. In VAZ models, it is convenient to use the area near the langeron, where a beam is attached to it. Most mounting kits include custom brackets.
Important! You must first drain the coolant, as the system will be depressurized.
The body of the heater has an index arrow indicating the point of entry of liquid into it. This branch pipe must be connected to the outer jacket of the power plant housing. From this hole, the antifreeze will pass into the channels of the block, and then it will move to the upper pipe leading to the pump from the radiator.
The kits include a special fitting. It must be screwed in instead of the drain threaded screw (plug). The upper branch pipe is cut and divided using a tee. It is important not to confuse the direction of the fluid flow, as the technological angle of inclination allows the antifreeze to move freely through the updated channel system.
After all the pipes are mounted, pour antifreeze into the system and control the tightness of the joints and sealing of the clamps. We test the heating of the installed thermal system.
Mounted liquid engine heaters are more profitable devices in comparison with bulky stationary models. They are also more economical in energy consumption and have a lower price tag. The widespread use of such equipment has proven its effectiveness in the operation of vehicles of various classes.
