How long do I need to plug the heater in for?

[monteman1978]

I am having a extension cord issue. How long do I need to plug the van in so I can start her on cold mornings. I am getting a new cord soon but I need to make due with what I have. The issue is in this tread:
Extension Cord is getting hot

Is there any other options, I will not be able to replace the cord until the end of the month.
Thanks again in advanced

[SMKSTAX]

4 hours minimum.

[Farmboy444]

i set a timmer and mine comes on 4 hours before i leave and it starts up like a hot summer day everytime. You can leave it plugged in all night also wont hurt anything.

[monteman1978]

I use to but the dang cord get hot. So I am afraid something will happen when I am asleep.

[Farmboy444]

what size cord ya using? I use a 12 gauge cord, never had a problem

[orangesbc383]

I have mine on a time for 4 hours truck is at 100 when i start it thats at 15 degeres out, if you have your extension cord on a GFI switch it if gets to hot it should kick out. I am also useing a good quality 12 gauge cord

[Farmboy444]

if its a cheap 16 gauge it would get hot and wouldnt take long to get hot

[monteman1978]

I only have an 18 gauge cord. I figured it would be fine considering it runs all my power equipment. But I was wrong oh well.

[Farmboy444]

yeah there is the problem, the block heaters pull i belive 1100 watts

[monteman1978]

Getting a new cord soon. And I was wrong it is 16 not 18. My bad.