How should carburetor heat be used during landing?

The use of carburetor heat during landing is particularly critical when there is suspicion of carburetor icing. Carburetor icing is a significant concern, especially in humid conditions or when the temperature is near freezing. When the air passes through the carburetor, it cools due to expansion, which can lead to the formation of ice in the carburetor throat. Applying carburetor heat introduces warmer air into the carburetor, which helps melt any ice that may have formed and prevents engine power loss during crucial phases of flight, such as landing.

Utilizing carburetor heat during landing ensures that the engine operates smoothly and reliably, which is essential given that landing requires precise control and stable engine performance. By activating carburetor heat whenever icing is suspected, the pilot can mitigate the risk of engine roughness or failure, thereby enhancing safety during this critical phase of flight.