Ford 1996 Contour Manual page 51

6
Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a
region where temperatures reach -10˚F (-23˚C) or below. An
engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves
starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the
heater-defrost system to respond quickly.
To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a grounded 110-volt
outlet. Ford recommends that you use a 110-volt circuit that is
protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter.
To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with
ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)
adapters.
For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before
you start your vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three
hours will not damage the engine, so you can plug it in at night
to start your vehicle the following morning.
Starting Your Contour
RWARNING
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