Northeastern Ontario is bracing for a severe cold snap with temperatures plummeting below -20°C this week. The forecast predicts overnight lows reaching approximately -31°C on Thursday and Friday, accompanied by daytime highs around -19°C. These conditions are expected to persist across the region.
Maintaining Vehicles in Winter with Block Heaters and Battery Blankets
To ensure vehicles remain operational during extreme cold, drivers can take preventive measures. Neil Cutting, shop manager at Thunder Bay’s Payless Automotive Maintenance and Repairs, noted an increase in battery, alternator, and power steering issues during harsh cold. He advocates for two main winter preparations: using block heaters and battery blankets.
Block Heaters
A block heater is an effective tool for keeping a vehicle’s engine warm in frigid temperatures. Cutting recommends plugging in the vehicle overnight when temperatures drop to -12°C or lower. He explains that block heaters work by warming the coolant, which helps maintain optimal engine temperature, allowing oil to circulate more efficiently.
Battery Blankets
Battery blankets also play a crucial role in vehicle maintenance during winter. These devices insulate the battery, preventing it from losing power in extreme cold. When temperatures drop to around -30°C to -40°C, a battery can lose up to 50% of its cold cranking amps, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Cutting advises drivers to undertake longer highway trips to recharge their batteries effectively.
Additional Tips for Cold Weather
- Always keep jumper cables and a battery booster pack in the vehicle.
- Maintain a supply of coolant on hand for emergencies.
- Check battery performance regularly, especially for electric and hybrid vehicles, which can experience reduced battery efficiency in cold weather.
Electric vehicles may suffer diminished range in severe cold, potentially reducing travel distances significantly. According to Cutting, if a battery typically supports 300-400 kilometers, that range could drop to 150-200 kilometers in very low temperatures.
Looking Ahead
While Ontario faces harsh winter conditions now, Environment and Climate Change Canada predicts a warmer climate in the coming years. The agency has indicated that 2026 may be one of the hottest years on record, with potential average temperatures 1.35°C to 1.53°C above pre-industrial levels.
As the climate continues to change, being prepared for extreme weather, both hot and cold, is crucial for vehicle maintenance. Utilizing technologies like block heaters and battery blankets can significantly aid in keeping vehicles running smoothly throughout the winter months.
