Remote Outlet for a Block Heater

Discussion in 'Gen 4 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by Kremtok, Jul 20, 2016.

  1. Kremtok

    Kremtok Smug Alert!

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    Greetings,

    I'm looking to get a remote outlet that I can control from inside the house to switch on my block heater come winter time. Our garage is detached but not far from the main house. I've looked around on Amazon but the feature that I really want seems to be missing - remote indication that the outlet is on or off.

    Can anyone recommend a solution, please?

    Thanks for your time.
     
    #1 Kremtok, Jul 20, 2016
  2. walterm

    walterm Active Member

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    I solved this problem by getting an extension cord with a power indicator in the end so I can see if it's got power or not. That assumes you have a line-of-sight to the car where the plug is.
     
    #2 walterm, Jul 21, 2016
  3. JimboPalmer

    JimboPalmer Tsar of all the Rushers

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    #3 JimboPalmer, Jul 21, 2016
    Kremtok likes this.
  4. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    If it is within line-of-sight, I'll vote for some kind of indicator lamp at or near the outlet as being cheaper and more reliable than a remote control. Whether it be an indicator in an extension cord, or a lamp or light fixture or nightlight or even a holiday light string, it is easy and can be selected to consume a negligible amount of power compared to the block heater.
     
    #4 fuzzy1, Jul 21, 2016
  5. Kremtok

    Kremtok Smug Alert!

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    #5 Kremtok, Jul 21, 2016
  6. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Sunday driver DIY’r

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    Look into timers too. Works for us. I'd suggest 2 hours, maybe 3 in the dead of winter.
     
    #6 Mendel Leisk, Jul 26, 2016
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