Q: Are electric blankets safe?
A: Yes, electric blankets are completely safe to use, provided they have thermostat control and auto-off features. However, like all electric items, they do have the potential to malfunction. In this case, they could overheat.
Q: Can you adjust the position of the chaise on a corner sofa bed?
A: Some corner sofa beds come with a chaise that is already set on the left or right side. However, most designs have a chaise that can easily be moved to the side that you prefer.
Q: It is best not to use electric blankets for infants and elderly or immobile patients. They are also not recommended for people with diabetes, neuropathy, and other medical conditions.Does placement of my electric blanket matter?
A: You can use the electric blanket any way you like: as a spread on the bed or sofa or for snuggling under! You can also use two blankets – one on the top, the other on the bottom – for extra warmth.
Q: Which side of the electric blanket should be on the top?
A: Most manufacturers clearly mark which side of the blanket should be on top. Mostly, it is the label side that goes on the top because that is where the electrical coils are and these should not be covered or sandwiched between your body and the fleece of the blanket. They should ideally be on the top to minimize fire hazards.
Q: What are some contraindications for using electric blankets?
A: It is important not to use electric blankets for infants, elderly patients, people with limited or no mobility, and especially for patients susceptible to neuropathy.
Q: Do electric blankets consume a lot of power?
A: Compared to room heaters or space heaters which draw power at the rate of 15 cents per hour, an electric blanket costs a lot less – only about 8 to 9 cents per hour. They come with thermostat regulation and also heat uniformly. Plus, their insulation layer keeps the heat trapped inside to prevent them from cooling down too fast. All these features can greatly lower your electric bills, and more so when compared to the power consumption of central heaters.
Q: Can wet electric blankets cause electric shock?
A: Yes. It is important not to plug in the electric blanket when it is wet, as it can increase electric shock hazards. Always dry the blanket completely prior to use.
Q: Can you use an electric blanket on camping trips?
A: Yes, if you are camping under freezing conditions, you can safely use an electric blanket to stay warm and dry. Of course, you’d need an electric outlet and its cord should be long enough to reach that outlet.
You could also use the blanket with a generator. Make sure that your blanket won’t get wet or else it could be a fire or electric shock hazard.
Never use the blanket under a sleeping bag as that could cause overheating and sweating.
Q: Can you use an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress?
A: Yes, you can use an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress without worrying about safety issues.
Q: Can people with pacemakers use an electric blanket?
A: Yes, electric blankets won’t interfere with the functioning of a pacemaker. In fact, some of the accessories allowed for safe use for patients fitted with a pacemaker are portable space heaters, electric blankets, and electric heating pads.
Q: Can pregnant women use an electric blanket?
A: Yes, pregnant women can safely use an electric blanket provided it is not set at a very high temperature. Make sure you keep the temperature comfortably warm to prevent overheating. The main thing to ensure is that the blanket should not raise your body temperature or cause any burns.