As winter temperatures drop across Anchorage, city officials are reminding drivers that plugging in engine block heaters when temperatures reach 20°F or colder can make a meaningful difference for both vehicles and local air quality.
According to the Anchorage Health Department, using an engine block heater helps vehicles start more efficiently in extreme cold, reduces cold-start exhaust emissions, and contributes to improved air quality during winter inversions.
To support this effort, the Anchorage Health Department is offering free outlet timers to residents, available while supplies last. These timers help ensure block heaters are used efficiently, reducing unnecessary electricity use while still protecting engines in cold conditions.
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More information about cold-weather vehicle practices and Anchorage’s “Plug at 20” initiative is available at muni.org/plugat20.
City officials say small actions like properly using block heaters can collectively reduce winter air pollution and help keep Anchorage’s air cleaner during the coldest months of the year.
