Nothing can be more comforting and relaxing than lying into a warm bed. Even, winter is a season that brings in a number of health problems, especially for those who are always suffering from arthritis or any other bone issue. They always complain about muscle or bone pain, stiffness and tension.
Although there are electric blankets available in the market, they are only good for bedtime when the person has to enjoy the warmth of blanket to have sound sleep. They are of no use to combat pain; even, they become a headache to handle since they are quite big and heavy. This is where heating pads come in handy. They are ideal for everyone no matter when, how and where they are used. It’s just about understanding their handling and some precautions if you are using electric heating pads.
Section1: Are Electric Heating Pads Safe?
Although these electric pads are manufactured with the claim of being safe and beneficial, people still have to watch out for some issues. They range from minor, like skin burn, to serious problems, like electrocuted. If handled inappropriately, you might have to deal with any of them.
Here, the worth mentioning fact is that these electric heating pads generate the electromagnetic field, whose intensity would differ from one version to the other. People have to be really careful at the time of their selection because it’s doesn’t necessarily mean that their chosen version emits low level of radiations; they might have to deal with higher levels as well, which eventually damage the body’s immune system.
The next important consideration is to remember that electric pads are always prone to causing fire and electrical shocks. They have to be handled as per instructions of the label with complete safety measures. They are usually designed after proper research and with quality materials. So, there is no need to doubt their performance and durability. According to a survey, electric heating pads are prone to causing the following problems:
- Sparking from the plug, outlet or wire
- No automatic switch-off
- Hole in the fabric
- Frayed wires
- No or lack of control on temperature
Section2: Types of Heating Pads & Benefits
Considering the level of their popularity, heating pads are available in the following types:
- Microwavable Heating Pads: They are made up of non-flammable fabric that has different grains like flax seeds, wheat or other material that can retain heat. They just need to be microwaved to the desired temperature. The worth mentioning fact is that the heat doesn’t penetrate into the skin; rather, it’s just a source of warmth and comfort during the winter. To make benefits long lasting, you can also use essential oils.
- Electric Heating Pads: They are the most conventional type of heating pads that can provide instant relief from pain. They have an anti-flammable fabric with an electric coil that need to be plugged in to get the desired temperature for pain relief. There are some auto switch-off features and controls that will keep everything in control for as long as you want.
- Chemical Heating Pads: They have sodium acetate and tiny metallic pieces that used to press against the material to carry out the process of crystallization. It warms up quickly but the heat remains there for a long time period. The best part is that this heating pad is small in size and can be easily wrapped on the affected part.
- Infrared Heating Pads: They are probably the most beneficial type of heating pads, whose heat can penetrate deeper into the skin and stimulate blood circulation. It reaches the muscle tissues and give immediate relief from aching and stiffness. It increases blood pressure without causing skin burns.
Section3: Important Things To Consider When Shopping Electric heating pads
The type of heating pad chosen depends upon the following key factors:
- Type of Ailment: First of all, the person has to decide which body part they want to treat. They have to figure out whether it is a chronic neck pain or a simple muscle relief. Once you identify, it will be easier to choose one of the electric heating pads that can contour with respect to the spine or modify the shape.
- Size: It is necessary to choose the right size so that it can cover the entire body part and provides the desired benefits. The best part is that these heating pads are available in various sizes and shapes, which are sure to meet the needs. For neck pain, smaller pads are good but if the target is a wider area like the abdomen, legs, back or spine then a larger one would get the job done.
- Heat Settings: Every person has a different requirement for heat intensity. Some like to have high heat while others’ bodies benefit from low heat intensity.
- Heat-Up Time: It’s quite daunting to wait for a long time for the electric heating pads to get to the desired temperature. It is, therefore, recommended to always go for an option that heats quickly so that the person can use it even when he/she is in a hurry.
- Material: Since the purpose of heating pads is to soothe and comfort stiff, sore muscles, it is crucial to always choose a comfortable material. It has to be durable, reliable and long lasting so that it can work efficiently without causing trouble.
- Power Cord’s Length: It is probably one of the important factors for purchasing electric heating pads. It should be long enough to conveniently allow the person to use the product from a significant distance.
- Safety Features: When electric heating pads are in use, it’s necessary to pay extra attention on their safety. Users have to take all measures and precautions to make sure that they keep themselves as well as the surroundings safe from possible damages.
- Moist or Dry Heat: Always remember that there are two types of heating pads- one uses moist heat and other uses dry one. Although dry heat is more convenient, it doesn’t work well for sensitive skin.
Section4: Electric heating pads FAQs
Can heating pads be rolled up or folded?
It’s not recommended to roll up or fold the pad because it might damage the internal system that would lead to decrease in its effectiveness. In case of an internal damage, it would be dangerous to use, especially when set at high temperatures.
Is it possible to lay down on the electric heating pad?
Avoid using these heating pads to lay down or even as a pillow. Placing heavy objects of them may cause irreparably damages.
Are these heating pads washable?
Only the separable cover of the electric heating pads can be washed. Avoid device’s contact with water and even don’t put damp or wet feet or hands on it when plugged in. Always detach from the electrical socket for maintenance and cleaning purpose.
What is the reason behind not getting the desired level of heat intensity?
Most of the electric heating pads have automatic turn-off security device whose responsibility is to keep it safe from overheating. It used to intervene after almost 75 to 90 minutes so that the pad can get some rest and starts heating again once it stays at rest for 20 seconds or more. This way, the heating pad will remain in good condition for a long time and demands lesser maintenance.
What is the maximum temperature for the heating pad to reach?
According to the European norms, the electric heating pads can get up to 55oC, which is normally attained after a long functioning of around 30 to 45 minutes. This max temperature is usually present at the heating pad’s contact site with the clothes or skin.
Is it possible to use the electric heating pad on kids and pets?
It is not recommended to use them this way because their skin is not as sensitive and responsive to heating as adults. They cannot perceive injury or uneasiness caused by the pads, which also points out that they cannot communicate their feeling.
Are these pads useful to warm food or anything else?
They are not designed to meet such requirements.
Is it safe to use damaged power cord?
It is not advisable to keep using electric heating pads when their cords are damaged. Since they are also a household appliance, they need the same level of attention as other electronics. In case of any structural damage, always repair or replace it before using.
Section5: Wrap Up
Now that you have all details regarding how to choose the right electric heating pads, it will be quite easy to narrow down the area of search. However, if someone has any confusion, they can get in touch with an expert and figure out which type of heating pad would suit his/her requirements. This way, results will be guaranteed and satisfactory.