I assume the block heater is engaged once electrical current flows to it?

I heard some GM models have a thermostat so it only gets going when its -18C or so, or around -4F.

Canadian Tire is selling a Noma Block Heater thermostat that engages once it hits -10C or 14 ºF.
http://reviews.canadiantire.ca/9045/...ws/reviews.htm

But if the Max heater overrides it....?

 

May want to try the Canadian section since most of the traffic here is American and we don't get some of the cool stuff you Canucks get

 

AFAIK, block heaters are hot any time they are plugged in.

 

Oh, you people in the Northeast US don't get cold spells?

So when its plugged in, the juice is always flowing? Anyone have any idea the amount of watts?

 

I'm pretty sure when plugged in fluid is flowing

 

The block heaters I've encountered heated the instant you plugged them in. The link you provided is just an extension cord with a combination thermostat and timer built onto the end of it.

I find the brand amusing - Noma is one of the big makers of Christmas lights and decorations.