10 Things to Consider When Buying Environmentally Friendly Multi Zone Electric Blanket

As winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop, many of us turn to electric blankets for that extra warmth. Solar-powered electric blankets and solar generators for electric blankets are both great options that allow you to heat up your home or outdoor area with the power of the sun. But which one is better? In this blog post, we'll compare the two options, outlining the pros and cons of each so that you can decide which is right for you. Read on for more details!

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What is a Solar-Powered Blanket?

A solar-powered blanket is a technology-forward solution to outdoor comfort and survival. Like any blanket, it is designed to keep you warm in cold weather conditions, but with the added benefit of utilizing renewable energy from the sun. In this part, we’ll discuss how it works and its pros and cons.

How does It Work?

A solar-powered blanket works by harnessing the sun's energy through built-in solar panels. These panels convert solar energy into electrical power, which is stored in a rechargeable battery located within the blanket. Once fully charged, the blanket can provide warmth for hours without the need for electricity or other external power sources. Typically, an electric blanket uses between 100 and 400 watts of electricity, the exact amount depending on multiple factors such as size, brand, and model.

Pros and Cons

Solar-powered blankets have become increasingly popular in recent times, drawing attention to the many advantages and disadvantages of this modern technology. Now, let’s take a look!

Pros:

• They offer a sustainable and eco-friendly way to keep warm.

• They are lightweight and portable, making it easy for individuals who enjoy camping and hiking to carry them around.

• They are comfortable to use and provide warmth for extended periods of time, without the need for any external energy source.

Cons:

• They rely entirely on solar energy, which can be inconvenient for individuals who live in areas with limited sun exposure.

• They may not be able to generate sufficient heat, especially during nighttime.

• They may not be as durable as traditional blankets and may require more maintenance to keep them working properly.

What is a Solar Generator for Electric Blanket?

Solar generators offer an eco-friendly and renewable energy option for electric blankets. And the market for solar generators has increased recently because of the growing demand for eco-friendly options. The following are their working principle, pros and cons:

How does It Work?

A solar generator works by harnessing the power of the sun and converting it into usable electricity. The device has solar panels that absorb sunlight, and it then uses photovoltaic cells to convert that sunlight into usable energy. This energy is stored in a battery, which can be used to power various devices. The generator also has an inverter that converts the DC power stored in the battery to AC power that can be used to power appliances, such as electric blankets and refrigerators, depending on the size of the generator and the amount of stored power.

Pros and Cons

Like any other solar system, there are pros and cons associated with solar generators.

Pros:

• They are eco-friendly as they rely on solar panels to generate the power, which is convenient, cost-effective, and green.

• They are portable, durable, and require little maintenance, making them a great choice for outdoor activities.

• Equipped with various ports, they are versatile and can be used for many devices at the same time.

Cons:

• Initial investment can seem high and the generator can take time to pay off, especially if it is not used regularly.

• During rainy or cloudy days or in areas with limited sun exposure, the solar generator may not be able to fully charge or operate at maximum capacity.

Solar-Powered Electric Blanket VS. Solar Generator For Electric Blanket : Which One to Choose?

In this part, we’ll make a comparison between solar-powered electric blankets and solar generators for electric blankets to find their similarities and differences, then help you choose the better one.

Similarities:

• Both are eco-friendly and depend on sunlight to generate electricity.

• The efficiencies of both are affected by the weather.

• Both are portable and convenient for outdoor activities.

Differences:

• Solar generatorsfor electric blankets are more versatile since they can power other devices besides electric blankets.

• Solar generators can generate more electricity than solar-powered electric blankets.

• Solar-powered electric blankets are more portable and easier to use.

• Solar-powered electric blankets may be cheaper.

In comparison, the solar generator for an electric blanket may be more expensive upfront, but it can provide long-term benefits and serve as a source of power for other electrical appliances. Therefore, if your budget allows, the solar generator for an electric blanket is a better choice.

The Best Solar Generator for Electric Blankets

While there are many solar generators for electric blankets on the market, finding the best one can be a daunting task. To make this task easier, we will recommend two popular Anker solar generators: Anker Solar Generator 757 and Anker solar generator 767.

Anker SOLIX F1200 Solar Generator

The Anker SOLIX F1200 Solar Generator is an ideal choice to power electric blankets. Boasting a 1229Wh capacity and 1500 wattage, the power station can provide reliable and consistent electricity to keep your blanket warm all night. Apart from that, the power station has 13 ports you need and can charge all the essential devices, from smartphones and laptops to coffee makers and microwaves.

Additionally, the solar generator comes with three 100W solar panels, each featuring a USB-C and USB-A output port, allowing you to charge two devices simultaneously. Furthermore, these panels are adjustable to a range of 40°, 50°, or 60° to optimize the solar power output that is most ideal for your needs.

Anker SOLIX F2000 Solar Generator

The Anker SOLIX F2000 Solar Generator comes equipped with a 2400W portable power station and two 200W portable solar panels, providing an abundance of power both for your household and outdoor activities. What's more, its outstanding 2048Wh capacity and 2400W AC output are perfect for running various appliances like electric blanket, air conditioners, and refrigerators, ensuring you're never left powerless.

Moreover, each solar panel boasts an excellent sunlight-to-energy conversion rate of up to 23%, and it can even function on overcast days, all while being resistant to scratches and weather. Thanks to these unique features, you can rest assured that you won't run out of energy during outdoor explorations.

Conclusion

After looking at the comparison between solar-powered electric blankets and solar generators for electric blankets, it's clear that there are pros and cons to each of these items. While the solar-powered electric blanket is cheaper upfront and requires little effort from the user, it may not be able to provide enough power to operate an electric blanket or other similarly sized appliances. On the other hand, a solar generator for an electric blanket can provide adequate power for a variety of gadgets and appliances - but it comes with a larger upfront cost. Ultimately, the best option depends on your budget, needs, and convenience preferences.

FAQ

Is it worth using a solar generator for an electric blanket?

Yes. Using a solar generator is a safe, practical, and sustainable way to power an electric blanket. With a solar generator, you can enjoy the warmth of your electric blanket without worrying about electrical hazards or running up your energy bill. Not only that, but solar generators are environmentally-friendly and can actually save you money over time.

What Solar Generator Size is Required to Power an Electric Blanket?

The size of the solar generator required to power an electric blanket depends on the wattage rating of the blanket and the desired runtime. Electric blankets typically come in various wattage options, with lower-end models around 50-100 watts and higher-end ones reaching 200 watts or more. To determine the solar generator size, you'll need to consider the wattage of the electric blanket and how long you want it to run. For example, if you have a 100-watt electric blanket and want it to run for 8 hours overnight, you'll need a solar generator with a capacity of at least 800 watt-hours (100 watts x 8 hours). Adding a safety margin and considering the inefficiencies of the system, it's advisable to go for a solar generator with a capacity of at least 1000 watt-hours or more for a comfortable and reliable power supply.

Are Solar-Powered Generators for Electric Blankets Safe?

Yes, solar-powered generators are safe for electric blankets. Solar panels generate DC electricity, which is converted to AC electricity using an inverter, just like the electricity we use in our homes. As long as the solar-powered generator has been manufactured to meet safety standards and is used according to the manufacturer's instructions, there is no risk to using it to power an electric blanket.

When a person uses and stores them correctly, electric blankets are safe. However, recommendations state that children, pregnant people, and those with diabetes or circulation issues avoid using them.

This article explores the safety and potential risks of electric blankets.

It also discusses who should avoid using electric blankets, along with alternatives for keeping warm at night.

Are electric blankets safe?

Modern electric blankets are much safer than their predecessors. This is because they have safety features, such as an automatic shut-off.

There are two types of electric blankets: one type that fits directly on the mattress and one that a person can use as a traditional blanket.

According to Columbia University, a person should never use both types of blankets at the same time because it may present a significant fire hazard.

Additionally, there may be a chance that the blankets get too hot or cause burns. To avoid this, use the blanket before bedtime and turn it off before going to sleep.

Individuals should also avoid using electric blankets on:

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• waterbeds
• bunk beds
• mechanical beds
• sofas

Researchers have speculated the connection between electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and cancer.

According to the National Cancer Institute, there are two types of EMFs:

• Higher frequency: These include X-rays and gamma rays. They are a part of the ionizing part of the spectrum, which can damage cells and DNA.
• Low- to mid-frequency: These come from magnetic fields from power lines and electrical appliances, such as electric blankets. They are non-ionizing and do not damage cells or DNA.

Electric blankets are a source of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields. However, they do not have links with cancer.

Are they safe for those with diabetes?

Some people with diabetes may experience neuropathy, or nerve damage, which occurs due to high blood glucose levels.

With this symptom, the altered sensation may mean they cannot feel the actual heat level of an electric blanket, leading to overheating or skin burns.

For this reason, doctors may advise against using an electric blanket or other forms of heating pads.

An alternative approach is to use the electric blanket to heat the bed before the person gets in, then turn off or remove the blanket at bedtime.

Are they safe for those with circulation issues?

If an individual has circulation issues, electric blankets may not be safe.

As with diabetic neuropathy, an older study from 2008 notes that a person with circulation issues may be less sensitive to heat levels. This is because of the essential role the skin plays in thermoregulation, the body’s system of regulating temperature.

Therefore, using an electric blanket could potentially lead to burns as people may not feel that the blanket is getting too hot. Individuals may wish to speak with a doctor to confirm that using these products to generate warmth is safe.

Who else should be cautious when using electric blankets?

The following people should avoid using electric blankets. They could speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action if they need extra warmth.

Older adults

Older adults may also wish to avoid using electric blankets. Their skin may have altered temperature receptors, meaning they cannot tell if they are too hot, potentially leading to burns.

People with dementia

Electric blankets may also not be suitable for those with dementia, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

A 2015 study notes that people with Parkinson’s disease may have difficulty with temperature regulation. Additionally, those with mobility issues may bend or break the blanket’s internal wires, which could potentially cause the blanket to short out and catch fire.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, a person with Alzheimer’s disease may experience changes in their temperature sensitivity. As a result, carers should closely monitor the use of electric blankets and heating pads to help them avoid burns.

Are they safe to use during pregnancy?

Electric blankets may not be safe to use during pregnancy because they generate non-ionizing radiation.

Some research shows that exposure to non-ionizing radiation may increase the chance of pregnancy loss. The study showed that the miscarriage rate in the people in the high exposure group was twice that of those in the low exposure group.

However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) state that overall, the evidence does not confirm that sources of environmental electromagnetic fields increase the risk of pregnancy complications. However, they do highlight the need for further research.

Consult with a doctor before using an electric blanket during pregnancy.

Safety tips

To minimize the risk of unsafe outcomes, a person should follow these safety guidelines:

• avoiding using second-hand electric blankets
• replacing old blankets, particularly those more than 10 years old
• buying electric blankets with approval from a nationally recognized testing agency, such as Underwriters Laboratories
• checking that the blanket has no tears, burns, or other damage
• ensuring that the embedded heating wires, electrical cord, and temperature control system are in good repair and fit correctly

How to use safely

To use an electric blanket safely, a person should take the below precautions:

• reading and following the manufacturer’s instructions
• checking for damage before each use
• turning off the blanket when not in use
• turning off the blanket when going to sleep

In addition, people should avoid:

• using a hot water bottle with an electric blanket
• touching the blanket with wet hands, feet, or hair
• switching on a wet electric blanket
• bending the electric blanket around the mattress
• using an electric blanket with a sofa bed or other mechanical bed, which could trap the blanket

If a person has any concerns about the safety of an electric blanket, they should avoid using it.

How to store safely

To maintain an electric blanket in optimal conditions, a person must store it correctly when not in use.

To store an electric blanket safely, a person should:

1. Keep the power cord separate: Avoid folding the power cable in the blanket, which can cause kinks.
2. Gently roll the blanket: Folding an electric blanket can damage the delicate internal wires. Instead, loosely roll the blankets to avoid damaging the heating elements.
3. Protect the blanket: Store the blanket and power cable in a bag to protect it from dirt.
4. Do not store items on top: Be careful not to crush the blanket and damage the wires.
5. Avoid certain chemicals: A person should not use any moth-proofing chemicals on the blanket.

Alternative ways to stay warm during sleep

A bed that is too cold can interfere with sleep patterns.

Here are some alternatives to electric blankets that can help people stay warm while they sleep:

• using a hot water bottle or heat pad
• wearing socks and a head covering
• using brushed fabrics, such as flannel, for bedsheets as the texture traps air and acts as an insulator
• creating layers using duvets and thick blankets to trap air for extra insulation
• checking the bedroom walls and windows for gaps that can cause drafts

Summary

Electric blankets can provide a safe source of heat for most people. However, these blankets should adhere to current safety standards and have a shut-off mechanism to prevent overheating or fires.

It is also important for people to maintain their electric blanket properly and ensure it is stored correctly to minimize damage.

Doctors may advise certain people to avoid electric blankets because of safety risks. They include those with diabetes or circulation issues and pregnant people.

Although there is much debate, there is no conclusive evidence of a link between cancer and the extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields that electric blankets generate.

Q:

Are electric blankets safe for children?

A:

Although there are sources that say they are safe for children, I recommend being very cautious. Parents should read manufacturing recommendations and use newer electric blankets that have better safety ratings. Those under the age of 5 years may not recognize or be able to verbalize that it is too hot, so these blankets are generally not recommended for them. Another concern is a child who is still bed wetting — they should avoid electric blankets.

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