When is carburetor heat typically used?

Carburetor heat is typically used during all landings and reduced RPM maneuvers to prevent carburetor ice from forming. Carburetor icing can occur in conditions of high humidity and low temperatures, especially when the engine is running at lower power settings, such as during descent or when approaching for landing. The use of carburetor heat helps to raise the temperature of the mixture entering the carburetor, which in turn reduces the chances of ice accumulation.

While it’s true that the risk of carburetor ice is greater during reduced RPM operations, it’s important to emphasize that the practice of using carburetor heat during landings helps ensure continued engine performance when it is most critical. In contrast, using carburetor heat during take-offs and during full power operations may not be as necessary, as the engine operates at higher temperatures and at full throttle, reducing the likelihood of icing.