Tankerpilot75
Well Known Member
Last year I installed a Reiff Oil Heater on my IO-360. Of course the winter this year is warmer than normal it seems. However my question is the same. Should the sump heater be left plugged in when left in the hangar using the Reiff thermostat to regulate oil temperature? What are the pros and cons?
I?ve discussed this question with several pilots at my airport and their responses go both ways. I?ve noticed when it?s left plugged in with full time power the oil is consistently warm (not hot) and the engine compartment feels around 60 to 65 degrees. When I use a wall plug purchased from Ace Hardware that activates only when ambient temperatures drops below 35 degrees, I?ve noticed the oil temperature is significantly lower and the engine compartment reflects ambient temperatures. I assume the temperature controlled wall plug results in more temperature cycles than just leaving it powered full time (therefore I assume greater potential for moisture from condensation).
Wifi activated control is not an option. No cellular access in hangar areas and very poor access at airport.
I?ve discussed this question with several pilots at my airport and their responses go both ways. I?ve noticed when it?s left plugged in with full time power the oil is consistently warm (not hot) and the engine compartment feels around 60 to 65 degrees. When I use a wall plug purchased from Ace Hardware that activates only when ambient temperatures drops below 35 degrees, I?ve noticed the oil temperature is significantly lower and the engine compartment reflects ambient temperatures. I assume the temperature controlled wall plug results in more temperature cycles than just leaving it powered full time (therefore I assume greater potential for moisture from condensation).
Wifi activated control is not an option. No cellular access in hangar areas and very poor access at airport.