Using the engine block heater, Starting and stopping the engine 173 – FORD 2014 Expedition v.1 User Manual
Page 174
The heater acts as a starting aid by warming the engine coolant. This
allows the climate control system to respond quickly. The equipment
includes a heater element (installed in the engine block) and a wire
harness. You can connect the system to a grounded 120–volt A/C
electrical source.
We recommend that you do the following for safe and correct operation:
• Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cord that is product certified by
Underwriter’s Laboratory or Canadian Standards Association. This
extension cord must be suitable for use outdoors, in cold temperatures,
and be clearly marked Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances. Never
use an indoor extension cord outdoors; it could result in an electric shock
or become a fire hazard.
• Use as short an extension cord as possible.
• Do not use multiple extension cords.
• Make sure that when in operation, the extension cord plug and the
heater cord plug connections are free and clear of water. This could
cause an electric shock or fire.
• Make sure your vehicle is parked in a clean area, clear of
combustibles.
• Make sure the heater, heater cord and extension cord are firmly
connected.
• Check for heat anywhere in the electrical hookup once the system has
been operating for approximately 30 minutes.
• Make sure the system is unplugged and properly stowed before driving
your vehicle. Make sure the protective cover seals the prongs of the
block heater cord plug when not in use.
• Keep plug terminals clean and free of dirt and corrosion.
• Make sure the heater system is checked for proper operation before
winter.
Using the Engine Block Heater
Make sure the receptacle terminals are clean and dry before use.
To clean them, use a dry cloth.
The heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours of energy per hour of use. The
system does not have a thermostat. It achieves maximum temperature after
approximately three hours of operation. Using the heater longer than three
hours does not improve system performance and unnecessarily uses
electricity.
Starting and Stopping the Engine
173
2014 Expedition (exd)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, June 2013
USA (fus)