Can you drive with the parking heater on?

A frequently asked question from drivers who often drive in cold climates is whether they can safely drive with their parking heater on. Parking heaters are popular for vehicles such as trucks, campers, and boats because they provide an efficient way to keep the interior warm without idling the engine. But what about when you're on the road? Is it safe to leave the parking heater on while driving? In this article, we delve deeper into the possibilities, safety regulations, and when it is useful to use the parking heater while driving.

Would you like to know more about how a parking heater works exactly? Then read our comprehensive blog post What is a Parking Heater and How Does It Work? for an in-depth explanation.

Are You Allowed to Drive with the Parking Heater On?

The short answer is: yes, in most cases you can safely drive with the parking heater on. Modern parking heaters are designed with safety in mind and can be used while driving to keep the interior of the vehicle warm. This is especially useful in extreme cold, where rapid cooling of the cabin can be uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous.

Safety Measures when Using a Parking Heater while Driving

Although it is generally safe to use a parking heater while driving, there are some safety measures you must follow to ensure that the system operates safely and efficiently:

• 1. Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation system of your vehicle is functioning properly and that there are no blockages at the air inlets and outlets of the heater.
• 2. Fuel supply: Always keep an eye on the fuel supply. Parking heaters consume a small amount of fuel, but it is important to ensure that you have enough fuel, especially when covering long distances.
• 3. Regular Maintenance: Have your parking heater regularly maintained to prevent issues such as blockages.
• 4. Electrical load: Regularly check the battery, especially if you frequently use the parking heater during long journeys.

When is it useful to leave the parking heater on while driving?

There are several situations in which using the parking heater while driving offers benefits, such as:

• 1. Avoiding Cold Starts: By keeping the parking heater on, the engine stays at temperature and prevents cold starts, which is important for diesel vehicles.
• 2. Comfort in the Cabin: The use of the parking heater ensures a comfortable cabin during long rides in the cold.
• 3. Fuel savings: Using a parking heater during breaks or at low speeds is much more efficient than idling the engine.

Are there limitations on the use of a parking heater while driving?

There are some situations in which you should be cautious or limit the use of the heater:

• 1. In certain countries: Some countries have regulations regarding the use of parking heaters while driving, such as in tunnels or enclosed spaces.
• 2. At high speeds: At high speeds, the driving wind can affect the performance of the parking heater. This varies depending on the vehicle and heater model.

Conclusion

The use of a parking heater while driving is generally safe and can be useful, especially in cold climates. It provides comfort, fuel savings, and helps prevent cold starts. By following some simple safety measures, such as proper maintenance and ventilation, you can ensure that your parking heater remains safe to operate even while driving.

View our range of parking heaters and choose the model that best suits your vehicle.