Do you know the wattage of your heater? Typical range is 600 to 1500 watts. As an example, 1000 Watt heater operated for 1 hour = 1000 watt/hours = 1KWH. Assuming electric rate of $.01 per KWH gives you a cost of $.01 per hour. Substitute your actual wattage and electric rate for an exact figure. If the tractor is stored inside out of the wind, it may be possible to switch to the smallest heater you can find for your application, and leave it on all the time. The other alternative is to use a high-wattage heater and a timer set to come on a couple of hours before you typically need the tractor. There are advantages to both. The big heater with a timer is probably your cheapest operating cost, but if you have the luxury of having the tractor out of the wind, and use a small heater always on, the tractor is ready to go anytime. I have a 4020 with a small heater in an unheated polebarn, and I keep it plugged in most of the winter. Sure is handy when you need it at a moment's notice, such as when a neighbor slides in the ditch!
|