How Do Thermal Blankets Work? — A Guide To An Essential Gear
When you're out on a chilly evening, all the heat you can get helps. Even during camping, it is essential to feel snug and comfortable while getting a good night's sleep. The best solution to freezing weather outdoors is a thermal blanket. Then you ask yourself: “how do thermal blankets work?” Do they provide adequate heat for your body during the coldest days?
Thermal blankets, also known as emergency blankets, have other benefits aside from keeping your body warm. These are also known to be helpful when it comes to specific ailments such as menstrual pains or arthritis. If used indoors, these blankets may even help curb your electric bill. In this article, you will find out all there is to know about a thermal blanket.
How Do Thermal Blankets Work When Used?
A thermal blanket looks and acts like regular bedding. These electricity-operated blankets fall under the category of home appliances. You plug it into a wall, and then it draws electricity from your circuits. Additionally, it is made up of thin wires that carry heat and warm up the blanket. This is why you can feel the heat immediately after plugging. Do not worry because the cables will not poke you. These wires are thin enough, and you will never feel them on your skin.
Aside from the heat provided by the blanket, it does not feel any different from a standard and non-electrified bedding. Some of these thermal blankets can be thrown into the washing machine. You should remove the plastic temperature dial before you even think of doing that.
Like all pieces of bedding, these are not one-size-fits-all. There are a plethora of options in the market for you to choose from. You may select the texture, weight, size, several heat settings, and unique features like dual temperature settings. Thermal blankets nowadays offer an advanced feature wherein you may program the heat before you climb into bed. It automatically shutoffs so you don't waste electricity all night while you are in a comfortable deep slumber.
How Much Do Thermal Blankets Cost?
You might be worried about the thought of shelling out lots of money for a thermal blanket. However, believe it or not, these sleeping companions do not cost much. Sure, the price may vary when it comes to the brands, models, and other factors. However, you can get one for as low as twenty dollars from some retailers. It can go up to three hundred bucks for the luxurious options if you are feeling fancy.
Do not rethink buying one because you may be able to cut back on your electric bills. It is an added monetary incentive when you can lower your thermostat several degrees during night time. You do not have to pay for warming up your entire house since you can already heat your body directly.
How Much Electricity Do Thermal Blankets Consume?
If you already made up your mind about buying a thermal blanket to go with your beddings, then good for you. You will be surprised by the associated energy costs that come with your electric blanket. According to the U.S. Department of Energy in their Energy Savers Blanket, a thermal blanket is among the least costly household appliances you can use. It is included in their report that a thermal blanket's energy cost $17.60 annually. There is a significant difference when you compare it to a space heater, which averages to $66 annually.
These are just average computations in general. It can be challenging to have an exact calculation because of the various heat settings. Consumption will also play a key role in determining energy cost. Heated blankets typically use 100 watts or less even in the highest heat setting. If the blanket is double-sided, it should cost twice. Still, when it comes to energy consumption, it won’t cost you a lot of bucks.
When you are on a tight budget, special low-voltage blankets use even less energy. They also tend to cost a little, but they cannot provide as much warmth as the high-voltage blankets.
How to Safely Use a Thermal Blanket
You might be doubting the safety of taking an electric blanket with you while you sleep. In handling electrical gadget, you need to take a mile of extra precautions. Here are some safety tips on how to use a thermal blanket:
- When you buy a thermal blanket, there are specific instructions from the manufacturer for the cleaning, care, use, and storage of the blanket. Make sure to read the manual carefully and follow the instructions.
- Check the blanket for dark spots or fraying since that is a usual indicator of burns. Dispose of the blanket once you see these spots.
- Look for a model with the automatic shutoff feature to avoid accidentally leaving it on all night.
- Heated blankets are only suitable for use on the top level of your bedding. Ensure that they lie flat without any bunches or folds to prevent specific areas from overheating.
- Electric blankets should not be used by children and persons with cognitive disabilities who might not be able to turn off the blanket all night.
- People with diabetes should not use heated blankets altogether since their decreased skin sensitivity could eventually lead to burns.
- Always remember that thermal blankets are not for pets. First off, they have fur so that they won't need one. Second, they might chew on the wires that will lead to a hazard.
- Unplug the thermal blanket in the morning or when you’re no longer using them.
Conclusion
How do thermal blankets work? Now you have the answers to that question; you might want to consider purchasing an upgraded one. A thermal blanket is unfailing when it comes to providing you consistent warmth even on the coldest days. You can sleep comfortably and conveniently without having to worry about expenses and other factors like that. Invest in one and stay warm. Find out more about survival blankets.