How to Keep Your Car Warm When It’s Not Running

Keeping your car warm during the cold seasons can be a challenging task. Whether you're in Washington state, Ohio, or any region where temperatures drop, there are several effective strategies you can use to ensure your vehicle remains warm and comfortable even when it's not in operation. This guide will provide you with practical tips and advice to maintain a warmer environment in your car.

Insulate the Vehicle

Here are some ways to insulate your car and reduce heat loss:

Use Sunshades or Reflective Materials: Placing sunshades or reflective materials in your windows can help to reduce heat loss, making your car feel warmer during off-hours. Consider Blankets or Thermal Covers: Wrapping your car with blankets or thermal covers can provide an additional layer of insulation, keeping your vehicle warmer.

Portable Battery-Powered Heaters

To provide warmth without having to run your car, you can use portable battery-operated heaters. Ensure that you use them safely and follow the manufacturer's instructions. These portable heaters are an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for maintaining warmth in your car.

Keep the Interior Dry

Controlling moisture inside your car is crucial as moisture can make it feel colder. Here are a few tips to maintain a dry environment:

Use a Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can help to reduce the humidity inside your car, making it feel warmer and more comfortable. Silica Gel Packs: Moisture-absorbing products like silica gel can help to dry the air inside your vehicle, reducing condensation and maintaining a warmer atmosphere.

Park in a Garage or Shelter

If possible, park your car in a garage or a sheltered area. This not only protects your car from wind and snow but also helps to maintain its temperature more consistently.

Use Heated Blankets and Throws

A heated blanket or throw can make your car much more comfortable. Just ensure that it's safe to use in a vehicle and doesn't pose a fire hazard. Use caution and follow all safety guidelines.

Warm Up Before Leaving

If you're away from your car for an extended period, consider running it for a short time before leaving to raise the interior temperature. This can help to make the car more comfortable and easier to start in cold conditions.

Cover the Engine Block

Using an engine block heater can be an effective way to keep the engine warm, which can help the cabin heat up more quickly when you start the car again.

Keep the Doors Closed

Minimizing the opening of the doors will help to retain heat inside the vehicle, making it feel warmer. This is particularly important during cold spells.

Use a Windshield Cover

A windshield cover can help prevent frost and ice from forming on the exterior of the car, which can contribute to a warmer interior environment.

A Personal Story: The 1968 IHC 800A Scout

My personal experience with the 1968 IHC 800A Scout shows the effectiveness of these strategies. The truck had a block heater installed, and a heating mat was placed under the battery, keeping the engine block warm. An AC plug was even hanging out the grill, providing immediate warm air. The owner's manual suggested keeping the heaters plugged in even when the truck wasn’t running. If that wasn't possible, draining the cooling system and keeping the oil in warm buckets beside the stove was a practical alternative. For extremely cold temperatures or extended periods without running the car, removing the battery and taking it inside was recommended.

What Not to Do: A Cautionary Tale

One incident with my brother's neighbor serves as a cautionary tale. He tried to keep his car warm by placing gasoline in an inverted hubcap under the engine and lighting it. This not only resulted in a fire but also demonstrated the flammability of cars. The experience was a significant lesson in the dangers of such practices. Always prioritize safety and follow proper procedures.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can maintain a warmer environment in your car even when it's not in use, ensuring a more comfortable driving experience during the colder months.