This is probably another dumb question from yours truly but with my first winter in AK and as a diesel owner, I was wondering if it is OK to have the truck running with the block heater plugged in? I'll have remote start on my truck and wanted to make sure it was ok to start it with the block heater on without me having to go outside to unplug it each morning before I started the truck. Thanks in advance!

 

Yes...you can start the truck with the block heater on. Plug the cord that you run to your block heater into a heavy duty timer and set it to come on for 3 to 4 hours prior to you expected start time. Make sure the timer can handle at least a 15 amp load...and if the timer is outside (exposed to weather) make sure it is an outdoor model. An indoor timer...like for inside the garage will set you back about $9 at WalMart.

 

Jakebrake is correct, you won't hurt anything by starting your truck with the block heater plugged in. He also makes a good point about an electric timer, there's no need to plug it in all night and you will save quite a bit of money each month by timing it to only 2-3 hours instead of 10-12.

 

Thanks Guys!