What are the Power Requirements?
Standard 4 cylinder: 240 watts/ 2 amps/ $.60 per day
Standard 6 cylinder: 460 watts/ 4 amps/ $1.20 per day
16+ gauge extension cord is adequate
How long does it take to preheat?
For maximum benefits we recommend heating a cold soaked engine 6 hours before flight.
Can I leave a Tanis Preheat System plugged in all the time?
Always follow the engine manufacturer's recommendation regarding preheat. Tanis preheat systems can be plugged in continuously.
When is engine preheat required?
For cold weather operations, engine preheat is always required. Refer to the engine manufacturer's recommendation and the POH/ AFM specific to your aircraft.
Continental Service Information Letter (SIL 03-1 on Cold Weather Operation)
Preheating is required whenever the engine has been exposed to temperatures at or below 20F/ -7C (wind chill factor) for 2 hours or more.
Lycoming Service Instruction No. 1505.
The use of preheat will ease startup during cold weather and is required when the engine has been allowed to drop to temps below -10F/-12C
Many of our customers preheat when the outside temperature drops below 50F.
How long will it take to install a piston only Tanis Preheat System? Can I install this system myself?
Once the cowl is removed, it may take 2-6 hours for completion. Pad heat elements require 24-hours to cure before the aircraft can return to service.
Installation of any preheat system requires a log book entry by an A&P.
What comes with a Tanis Preheat System?
All systems include:
Oil sump heating element
Cylinder head heating elements
Wiring harness that includes fusing and a power plug
I only want to heat the oil sump - what is the part number?
We do not recommend or sell just the element to heat the oil sump. We only sell complete systems. The complete Tanis Preheat System will multi-point heat soak the engine the way the manufacturer recommends.
My mechanic told me not to install your system because it causes moisture in which corrosion can occur.
Not true. Resistance heat cannot create moisture. Use of our system will NOT result in corrosion.
Will the Tanis System work with an engine analyzer?
Yes
Do you have a system for a LSA?
Yes, but a Letter of Authorization is required from the manufacturer.
Yes, we have an approved system for the Cessna Skycatcher TS02884-115.
How hot does the engine get?
Our system is designed to raise the engine temperature 60 to 65 degrees above ambient.
How do I know my aircraft electrical system has enough power for a Tanis System?
This is not an issue because our preheat system uses ground power. It is not used in flight.
Can I use a portable generator?
Yes, as long as it has adequate capacity
