W213 instant heat witchcraft

[clk208]

Hi folks

Still learning lots about my W213 estate which I bought three months ago. It’s the 220d model with the amazing new OM654 diesel.

This is the first diesel car I’ve owned and was pleasantly surprised today going out on a cold morning that you get instant heat from the air vents from the moment you switch on.

Just curious as to how this happens. Presumably it’s a supplementary electric heater that kicks in until the engine is warm? Anyone know any more about these or what the current draw is?

Must do a write up on the car actually which has a few nice usual options.

Thanks!

 

[Rory]

Think it's a piezoelectric heater in the dash, so it's not far off like turning a hairdryer on.

 

[DSM10000]

Our 2008 E320 CDI produces warm air within a few seconds of starting. Unsure vaguely remember reading that it has an electrical heater to boost cabin warm up.

 

[whitenemesis]

Think it's a piezoelectric heater in the dash, so it's not far off like turning a hairdryer on.

I think it's a Peltier heater?

 

[clk208]

I think it's a Peltier heater?

Had to google that! Interesting tech if so.

Most of my journeys are fairly long but there may be the odd 2-3 days where I’m only doing short runs to nursery and back. Be interesting to see if the car can still produce the heat related goods with a battery that’s a bit run down.

 

[m80]

It takes the edge off, more of a gentle warmer.
Kicks in below 8 degrees if memory serves.

 

[Supernoodle]

It's a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater.

 

[alecmascot]

Be interesting to see if the car can still produce the heat related goods with a battery that’s a bit run down.

It's the alternator that will be powering the heater while the engine is running

 

[reemarquesno]

Hi folks

Still learning lots about my W213 estate which I bought three months ago. It’s the 220d model with the amazing new OM654 diesel.

This is the first diesel car I’ve owned and was pleasantly surprised today going out on a cold morning that you get instant heat from the air vents from the moment you switch on.

Just curious as to how this happens. Presumably it’s a supplementary electric heater that kicks in until the engine is warm? Anyone know any more about these or what the current draw is?

Must do a write up on the car actually which has a few nice usual options.

Thanks!

Unsure vaguely remember reading that it has an electrical heater to boost cabin warm up.

 

[whitenemesis]

Unsure vaguely remember reading that it has an electrical heater to boost cabin warm up.

Do keep up!
What system does your bmw use?