Imagine all the things that a heater can do, but this time a blanket is doing the task of keeping you warm. Well, how does an electric blanket work?
In this tutorial, you will learn how it works and address issues you might encounter along the way when using it. Sometimes a heater falls short of providing warmth. Long, cold nights can worsen physical ailments like menstrual pains and arthritis. This invention is the answer to your protests of discomfort.
How Does An Electric Blanket Work?
We still consider an electric blanket as a household appliance. Why? Because it needs to be plugged into a wall to supply electricity.
Electric blankets go by other names, too, such as an electric bedspread or throw. There is no mystery here. This type of blanket works through an internal system of insulated wires that can cater to different heat levels, adjustable through the temperature controller.
You can ignore its weight as well. Usually, it uses lightweight materials like polyester and acrylic. Two people can share the warmth in a king-size bed.
Electric blankets use 120 volts of electricity to power themselves. At low temperatures, they can produce 64-77° Fahrenheit of heat that can reach up to 118-132° in high settings. If you’re itching to know, yes, you can machine wash it too!
Safety Tips
- Do not throw away the manual. Please read it thoroughly to understand it fully. Review the specifications and carefully follow the instructions.
- Among all hazards, your primary concern is the hazard of starting a fire. Be careful enough not to pierce any section. Although the materials prevent fire, frayed linen can cause short-circuits that can be dangerous.
- It’s also advisable to check for burn marks and deformations or anything unusual. In the presence of one, investigate first before you consider plugging it in. While unplugged, spot holes where wires can stick out or fabric might deteriorate.
- How about the morning after? Well, make sure that you turn it off and unplug it. Under any circumstance, please do not leave it overnight due to the risk of overheating and malfunctioning.
- If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy, it’s better to refrain from using one. Overheated blankets might lead to miscarriage. Consult your doctor first for any alternatives.
Common Concerns
- Should a regular blanket go under an electric blanket? The answer is no. Always remember to put an electric blanket over any covering, and also your body.
- If the fear of forgetting to shut off the blanket gives you anxiety, consider buying one with an automatic system. Doing so will remove the responsibility to check it regularly.
- Who among age groups is appropriate to use it? Young children, including those with cognitive impairments, are discouraged from using this blanket. They might be unable to operate the blanket without supervision.
- Should I use it for my pets? Frankly, the coat of fur possessed by your pets removes the need for a blanket. It’s unnecessary, and they could chew and damage the wires instead, leading to hazards.
- How about those with skin conditions? Well, people with sensitive skin must evaluate the risks first. Even those who have diabetes could receive burns due to the decreased skin sensitivity.
Now we will proceed to the step-by-step process of using an electric blanket.
Steps on using electric blankets
The instructions laid out here are broad, and we advise you to consult the manual first. For practical reasons, we added technical questions you might have before buying.
Step#1. Spread the electric blanket on your bed
Step#2. Place the controller at the foot of the bed, away from the head
Step#3. Plug the blanket’s cord and then into the socket of a wall
Step#4. Choose your preferred settings
Step#5. Sleep with comfort
How much does it cost?
Great news for you: an electric blanket is cheaper than a regular heater. An array of models are available in the market. As for the cost, blankets range from $20 reaching up to $300 for fancier models.
As a bonus, you can cut corners on the heating bill. At night, you can lower down the thermostat a few notches. Instead of heating the whole house, you pay for the heat directed to your body when you use a blanket.
How much electricity does it consume?
Electric blankets consume insignificant amounts of electricity among appliances. How often and for how long do you use it? Of course, this will also depend on your household’s consumption.
What features should an electric blanket have?
A good electric blanket should have a heat adjustment tool, multiple heat settings, and low voltage.
Conclusion
Now you know the answer to the question, “how does an electric blanket work”. If you dread frosty nights, you could wear socks and thick sweaters – but they can’t follow you to bed. Winter can trigger all sorts of aches in your body if you go unprotected from the cold.
That’s why this is the time for you to grab an electric blanket. Again, read the manual carefully to know how yours specifically work. Use this tutorial to help you figure out the rest.