Car heater

Types of Car Heater

A car heater is a device used to heat the interior of a vehicle. Typically, it uses the heat from the engine coolant, which is heated by the engine during operation, to warm up the inside of the car. The heater is usually a heat exchanger, and it is called a car cabin heater.

• Conventional Car Cabin Heater

  Conventional heaters use hot coolant from the engine, which is accessible through a valve, to heat the inside of the car. The valve can be opened and closed manually to adjust the temperature.

• Electric Car Cabin Heater

  Electric car heaters are mainly used in electric cars. They are independent of the engine and use electricity from the battery to generate heat. Electric heaters are usually used in cars with internal combustion engines, mainly to heat the car quickly before the engine coolant reaches the optimal temperature.

• Heat Pump Car Cabin Heater

  Heat pump car cabin heaters are mainly used in hybrid and electric vehicles. The heat pumps are used to circulate the refrigerant, which can heat and cool the cabin air. Heat pump car cabin heaters are more efficient than conventional heaters.

• PTC Car Cabin Heater

  PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heaters are electric heaters that generate heat quickly and have self-regulating properties. They are mainly used in electric cars but can also be found in hybrid and internal combustion engine vehicles. PTC heaters help maintain a comfortable cabin temperature and are energy-efficient.

Specifications and maintenance of car heaters

Specifications

• Voltage

  Some heaters use a higher voltage, like 24 volts, to generate more heat. They are good in big, commercial vehicles. Most car cabin heaters use 12-volt systems. They take power from the car's electrical system.

• Wattage

  Heaters are rated by how much power they use from the car's electrical system. This is their wattage. Car cabin heaters usually range from 100 to 600 watts. A higher wattage means the heater can put out more heat and warm the car faster.

• Heating type

  Car cabin heaters use convection heating. This means they warm up the air inside the car. Some heaters also have fans to blow the warm air around better. Infrared heaters are another option. They work differently by sending out waves that directly heat people and objects inside the car.

• Temperature control

  Many cabin heaters have simple dials or switches to set the desired heat level. Some also include thermostats that sense the air temperature. The thermostat automatically adjusts the heater power to maintain a consistent temperature.

• Size and weight

  Housings for heater components are often made from lightweight plastic. This helps keep the overall heater weight down. Smaller, more compact designs take up less space inside the vehicle.

• Safety features

  Car cabin heaters include safety systems. These prevent overheating and fires. Overheat protection shuts off the heater if it gets too hot. Tip-over switches stop the heater if it gets knocked over. Some also have thermal cutoff switches that turn off the heater if it runs too hot for a long time.

Maintenance

• Drain the coolant

  Draining the coolant from the heater core is the first step in car heater maintenance. It helps remove any trapped air or old fluid. To drain it, remove the hose clamps. Then, carefully pull the hoses off the heater core. Hold the hoses above the core to avoid spilling fluid inside the car. Let the coolant flow out of the core into a container. Once all the fluid is drained, reinstall the hoses and clamps.

• Flush the heater core

  A heater core flush helps get rid of stuck debris that could block airflow. To do this, attach a water source like a garden hose to one end of the core. Turn on the water and let it flow through the core for several minutes. This will wash away any buildup inside. Then, disconnect the hose and let the core drain completely before driving again.

• Check for leaks

  Look closely at the hoses, clamps, and fittings around the heater for any signs of leaking fluid. Also, check where the core connects to the cooling system. If any leaks are found, replace or tighten those parts to stop the dripping.

• Inspect the fan

  The car's cabin heater fan is responsible for pushing the warm air around. It's important to check that this fan is in good shape to keep the air flowing properly. To inspect the fan, take off the cover or access panel where it is located. Spin the blades by hand to feel how they move. They should turn smoothly without any grinding or rough spots. Also, listen carefully while running the fan at different speeds. It shouldn't make any strange noises like squeaking or rattling sounds.

• Clean the heater housing

  Over time, dirt and dust can build up inside the heater housing components. This debris can clog filters or vents, reducing airflow. To clean it out, remove the housing cover. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe away anything visible. A vacuum could also be used to suck up loose particles from the inside of the housing. Then, replace the cover once everything is clean.

How to Choose Car Heater

Choosing the right car heater can be challenging. Below are some of the factors to consider:

• Safety

  When choosing a car heater, safety should be prioritized. This is because car heaters use high power from the vehicle's electrical system. If the heater is not properly installed, it can cause fires. Choose a heater that is easy to install and has clear instructions to avoid accidents. Also, ensure the heater has safety features like overheat protection and a good emission control system.

• Size

  The size of the car heater is an important factor to consider when choosing one. This is because the heater's size affects its heating ability. A larger heater will heat the car faster and better than a smaller one. However, a large car heater can take up much space, making the car feel cramped. A small car heater will not heat the car quickly or evenly. Therefore, choosing a car heater that is the right size for the vehicle and has the ability to heat the car effectively is important.

• Type

  There are different types of car heaters, and each type suits different needs. It is important to consider the type of car heater before purchasing one. The most common type of car heater is the one that uses the engine's heat. It works well in cold regions. Another type is the electric car heater, which is great for short trips. Parking space heaters are ideal for people who park their cars in enclosed areas. Ultimately, choose a car heater that is suitable for the climate and the type of vehicle owned.

How to DIY and replace Car Heaters

Car cabin heaters are generally easy to replace. However, the process may be tedious depending on the car model. Before starting the DIY process, ensure to have the proper tools for the job. This includes a ratchet set, screwdrivers, and pliers. Get a replacement car cabin heater core that fits the specifications of the heater that needs replacement. Read the user manual for instructions on removing the old heater core. The steps may include the following:

• 1. Drain the cooling system before removing the heater core to prevent the coolant from spilling inside the car.
• 2. Disconnect the car battery.
• 3. Remove the dashboard of the vehicle to gain access to the heater core.
• 4. Disconnect the heater hoses connected to the core.
• 5. Unfasten the mounting bolts and take out the old heater core.
• 6. Reverse the process and install the new core.

It is advisable to follow the instructions to the letter to avoid damaging other parts of the car.

Q&A

Q1: How does a car heater work?

A1: Car heaters utilize the heat generated by the engine, which is nearly 90% when driving. Heat from the engine block is transferred to the cabin using a blower fan and the car's ventilation system.

Q2: What is the difference between a manual and an electric car heater?

A2: The main difference is that electric car heaters use electricity from the battery to generate heat, whereas, in a conventional car, the heater is linked to the engine's heat output.

Q3: Can one install a car heater in a vehicle?

A3: Yes, it is possible. There are many aftermarket car heaters that buyers can get. They come in different types, such as electric car heaters and portable car heaters.