Last updated on December 22nd, 2022 at 04:31 pm
The heater becomes as crucial as a few things in your vehicle as the weather turns cold. Invariably, the heater controls are on the vehicle’s dash, but the mechanism of how the heater functions begin from the engine’s cooling system. So, proper maintenance of the cooling system would not only benefit your car’s engine but will keep it in better condition.
Nevertheless, the engine does generate heat from the combustion and friction that, if not cooled continually, could suffer a severe malfunction. So, it is necessary to say that the engine is essentially vital to the function of the car’s heater since it regulates heat through the blend doors when generated from the engine.
Notwithstanding, this informative post will explore the following content; does a car heater work with the engine off, how to turn on the heat in a car, how to turn on the heater in car Toyota Camry and much more.
Be patient; let’s get started without much ado!
Does Car Heater Work With Engine Off?
The answer is NO! since your engine is off, the heater will not acquire electrical power to make it work or to turn it on. In addition, if your vehicle is on or running, the engine coolant temperature tends to increase before it can get to the radiator. The heater will also have an increased temperature in the heater core.
Conversely, some car owners and mechanics believe the car heater can work if the engine is off. How could this be? They said that since the alternator produces electrical power, the alternator is a device that distributes power when it is on, as it also charges the battery. So, turning the engine off would not allow the alternator to generate enough power to run the heater’s fan or produce heat.
So far, I am stating to you categorically and as a certified mechanic that this idea is unclear. Hence, it is evident, as described earlier, that the heater uses the heat generated by the engine.
How To Turn On The Heat In A Car
Turning on the heat in a car requires some procedures, either automatically or manually. Although, understanding these steps is essential for a comfortable ride.
- Automatic System – In today’s modern vehicles, turning your car’s heater on is straightforward and summarized as starting your engine, setting the level of your thermostat, and changing the fan’s speed. Hence, the steps for automatic cars are as follows;
Step 1- At the right side of the control panel, press the auto button to activate the automatic climate control function.
Step 2 – Use the heating controls to set a desired temperature on the driver and passenger sides alternatively.
Step 3 – Press the ”Dual” button to set up the dual climate control.
Step 4 – The car heater automatically switches from cold to hot air to meet the preferred temperature level.
- Manual System – If your vehicle is an older model or a model with an automatic heating system. Then, the following procedures are required;
Step 1 – Let your engine go idle as you start it. Don’t heat the air until the engine warms up after about five minutes.
Step 2 – Adjust the temperature control button as your car might have a toggle wheel or dial. Although, some vehicles have dual climate controls.
Step 3 – Put the fan on as you turn on the car’s heater.
Step 4 – Adjust the heater fan to your desired speed. Remember that the fan’s speed doesn’t affect the temperature but the distribution of the selected temperature level.
How To Turn On Heater In Car Toyota Camry
In a Toyota Camry, turning on the heater is as effortless, and the necessary procedure is below;
Step 1- Start your engine and allow it to warm if you are not driving.
Step 2- Turn off the AC in your car as you switch on the heater.
Step 3 – Adjust the temperature control button.
Step 4 – Adjust the fan level to the desired speed for easy distribution of air.
Isn’t it simple?
Conclusion
My final thought on this informative article is that the car heater works effectively and efficiently when involved with the engine since the heat comes from the cooling system (heater core). Hence, turning on your vehicle’s heater requires three basic steps; starting the engine, setting the desired heat level, and having adequate air distribution using the fan speed button.
Although, you must be familiar with the system of your vehicle, if it is a manual or automatic system, before turning on the heater in your car. Without mixing words, I recommend you follow the instructions above and don’t hesitate to contact your manufacturer’s guide or a certified mechanic if you observe any difficulty. Do like and share this post with others!
Related Article:
Types of Hose Clamps and How to Remove Them
Uchenna is a Radiographer and Auto parts mechanic who recently got his automotive diploma as an auto repair technician, and since then, has worked on fixing various car problems.
Working as just a radiographer, Uchenna didn’t just get all the fulfillment he desired, because he truly loved doing things tilted toward cars. As a kid, he would take apart his toy cars to see how they worked and would spend hours tinkering with his bike.
So, in 2017 he made the tough decision to become an auto mechanic. He threw himself into his studies and now loves every aspect of what he does.
He gets to work with his hands, solving problems and bringing cars back to life, and sharing his knowledge and easy quick-fix guide online are all part of what makes him feel fulfilled.
