remote control outlet control for engine heater

[James Mathias]

has anyone figured out a way to turn on an outlet from a distance to activate an engine warmer? Our hanger has no internet coverage. I was thinking of something activated by a phone call but it would take a dedicated cell phone linked to receiver of some kind. Any cheap solutions?

[Jay]

Pay a line guy at the FBO 5 bucks to plug in a heater when you call him?

Jay

[N8632Y]

Jay,
Great idea! I never thought of that,,,,think i'll ask them today, to work a deal...
simple, easy, i like!
steve

[James Mathias]

Wish I could. Small airport limited hours. Hence the desire to do it remotely.
Jim

[bishopw]

I noticed this when I bought my Reiff pre-heat system: This is a "beeper box" that turns an outlet on (and off) when a pager placed inside "beeps." You would have to get a pager and pay the monthly fee, but you could turn the heater on by dialing the pager's phone number, and call back to turn it off if you cancel the flight.

Warren

[James Mathias]

Thanks Warren I will look into that method.
JIm

[aerofarm]

I was reading about the beeper box and somewhere they said you could use one of those trac phones (no monthly fee) you just have to select a beep style ring tone. Seemed to think it worked quite well.

Nate

[James Mathias]

The TracFone is the cheapest phone I have found . You can buy one for 20 bucks and get 60 min call time and no monthly fees! Sounds like this plus the beeper box is the way to go.
Jim