engine block heater indicator light?
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2009
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engine block heater indicator light?
So just got done replacing the plug on the block heater and as I was working on it in the freezing cold while it was snowing I got to thinking. Is there any way to quickly check to make sure that the heater element is working or heating when it is plugged in? Has anyone ever installed a LED to indicate that the element is plugged in and heating? Kind of like the LED others have added to the glow plug relay to see when it is heating the glow plugs. I wouldn't mind being able to plug the truck in and see a LED light turn on indicating that the element is now on. Especially if I could see the LED from my kitchen window. I guess all you would have to do is run a wire from the LED down to where the heater element cord connects to the element. Where ever that might be, will find out later because my cord is looking kind of rough and needs to be replaced. Just a thought, let me know what you think and any suggestions that you might have.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 635
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From: Concord, NH
Just putting a light on the line isn't going to truly tell you if the heater is working or not. It's only going to tell you there is juice.
The only way for that is to get something that checks if there's draw on the line and then turn on the led accordingly which I have no clue how to do or what would be needed.
If you are just looking for juice, easiest way is to get an extension cord that has the light on the end.
I use an ammeter to check the draw every so often on the extension cord since I already have one.
If you don't have one and don't want to get one, you can get one of those "kill-a-watt" from home Depot or Amazon. That will also indicate draw but on the house side, not the truck side. Serve same purpose though.
And it could be used for other electricity usage reducing purposes. Lol
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The only way for that is to get something that checks if there's draw on the line and then turn on the led accordingly which I have no clue how to do or what would be needed.
If you are just looking for juice, easiest way is to get an extension cord that has the light on the end.
I use an ammeter to check the draw every so often on the extension cord since I already have one.
If you don't have one and don't want to get one, you can get one of those "kill-a-watt" from home Depot or Amazon. That will also indicate draw but on the house side, not the truck side. Serve same purpose though.
And it could be used for other electricity usage reducing purposes. Lol
Sent from my Galaxy Note 3 using IB AutoGroup
More Turbo
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 727
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From: Chariton, IA
I can look on my Infinity at the engine oil temp to see if the heater is working. I suppose any of the digital OBD monitors would read that. I mainly want the led to make sure It's plugged all the way in and serve as a reminder to unplug it before I take off.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 6,356
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From: Amarillo, TEXAS!
I just hang the cord over the driver's mirror or corner of the bumper as a reminder. If you really want to get fancy, search for "plug ejector." A lot of fire trucks have them installed. It kicks the plug out when the ignition is turned on.
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Joined: Mar 2012
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From: Jenkintown, PA
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MarkSullivan
1994.5 - 1997 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
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Jan 28, 2009 09:40 PM
