CBRE | FacilitySource provides an innovative, technology-driven, single-source facility management and support solution to leading brands across North America. CBRE | FacilitySource maintains the industry’s largest and most reliable data repository to provide business intelligence, transparency, flexibility, support and the Elite Network of Service Providers to save clients’ money and get the most out of their facilities while offering peace of mind. Established in 2005, FacilitySource was acquired in 2018 by CBRE Group, Inc., the largest commercial real estate services and investment firm in the world. For more information, visit https://facilitysource.com.
Today’s society revolves around convenience. When someone orders something online, they expect it to be delivered within a few days. When someone walks into a store, they expect to see stocked shelves so that they can find what they are looking for. Even though the general public expects a fast and seamless buying process, they probably don’t realize what goes on behind the scenes. In fact, facility managers at distribution centers play a large role in fulfilling orders. Facility managers ensure that semi-trucks are capable of transporting packages. When winter hits, facility managers must ensure that semi-trucks can turn on after sitting at distribution centers for hours. The key in keeping semi-trucks running: block heaters.
What is a block heater?
A block heater is a device that helps warm up an engine. By keeping the engine warm, the engine will have more success of starting in cold weather.
There are various kinds of block heaters. Electrical heaters are most common for distribution centers. Electrical heaters connect to a semi-truck’s cylinder block by an electrical extension cord.
Why should distribution center facility managers care about block heaters?
It may seem arbitrary, but facility managers can affect the performance of semi-trucks. Semi-trucks play a large part in distribution centers as they transport products across the country. So, it’s important to keep semi-trucks from breaking down by ensuring a facility has working and has functional block heaters. If a semi-truck cannot start, the operations of the distribution center will be affected by delayed deliveries.
When to use a block heater on a diesel semi-truck
When temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, block heaters are suggested. However, once temperatures reach single digits or dip below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, block heaters are required.
Many distribution centers use block heaters overnight on a semi-truck. When a driver arrives at night, the block heater is typically plugged in and then removed when the truck needs to leave the center. Yet, studies have shown that using block heaters overnight wastes energy. Semi-trucks only need to hook up to a block heater a few hours before departure.
Conclusion: Winter brings extra responsibilities to distribution center facility managers
As the temperatures drop, facility managers need to ensure they have working block heaters at their distribution centers. Otherwise, operations may be negatively affected. If you are a facility manager at a distribution center, make sure to check the condition of your block heaters. If your block heaters aren’t working like they should, having a professional service provider replace the block heater will help keep your business UP. AND RUNNING.
About CBRE | FacilitySource
