The Cost and Energy Efficiency of Electric Blankets

Electric blankets are a popular choice for staying warm and cozy, but have you ever wondered about their cost and energy efficiency? In reality, electric blankets can be a cost-effective option, especially when compared to traditional heating methods.

They use a relatively low amount of energy, about 0.5 to 1 kilowatt-hour per hour, which is significantly less than a typical space heater. This means you can enjoy the warmth without breaking the bank.

One of the key benefits of electric blankets is their ability to heat only the areas where you need it most, reducing energy waste and saving you money on your utility bills.

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Electric blankets are a wonderful way to stay cozy, but have you ever wondered how they work their magic? Heated blankets plug into an electrical socket (or use a battery pack) to use electricity to heat the blanket.

The insulated wires inside the blanket warm up to heat the entire blanket, and they do it quite quickly too! These wires are safely kept in place between the fabric layers of the blanket, ensuring your safety while you snuggle up.

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Modern electric blankets use a temperature control unit to manage the amount of current entering into the heat elements in the blanket. This unit is usually located between the blanket and the electrical outlet.

Some electric blankets use carbon fiber elements, which are less bulky and conspicuous than older heating wires. Carbon fiber is also used as the heating element in many high-end heated car seats, so you know it's reliable.

Electric blankets often come with two types of temperature control elements: an overheating safety thermostat and a thermostat controller. The safety thermostat is connected in series with the electric heating element to prevent overheating, and it's usually found in electric blankets designed for two people.

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Electric blankets can be a cozy and convenient way to stay warm, but safety should always be a top priority. Never use an old blanket that's ten years or older, as the internal elements may be deteriorating.

To ensure your electric blanket is certified for safety, check the product label for a national recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories. You can also check for safety recalls on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

It's essential to use your electric blanket responsibly. Don't place anything on the blanket, including yourself, unless it's designed to be laid on. Sitting on the electric blanket may damage the electric coils.

Some electric blankets work on relatively low voltage, including those that plug into ordinary household electrical outlets. However, old or damaged blankets are a concern of fire safety officials, due to the combination of heat, electricity, and flammable bedding material.

Most electric blankets on the market feature auto shut-off, meaning they will automatically turn off after 2 to 12 hours. Always follow the care and use instructions to ensure everyone's safety.

Here are some key things to keep in mind when using an electric blanket:

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of an electric blanket while minimizing the risks.

Electric blankets are actually quite energy-efficient. They tend to consume around 100 watts on average, which works out to about $0.011 in electrical costs per hour of use.

Leaving your electric blanket on for an extended period can be a bit pricey, but it's still cheaper than cranking up the heat in your house. Using a 200-watt electric blanket for 10 hours would cost between 20 to 40 cents, depending on your location.

If you can use an electric blanket to turn down the heat at night, it can actually be a smart investment. You'll save energy and money in the long run.

Here's a rough estimate of the costs involved:

Storage and care of an electric blanket are crucial to its longevity and safety. You should store the cords by unplugging the controls from the electric blanket and the wall, then placing the control unit and cord in a small storage bag.

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To prevent creasing the coils, it's best to roll or fold the electric blanket loosely, avoiding sharp folds and creases. If you must fold, make sure to fold it loosely.

When storing the electric blanket, place it in a storage bag with the control unit on top. This will help keep everything organized and protected. Store the bagged electric blanket away from any other items to avoid creasing the coils.

If you're in the market for a new electric blanket, prioritize soft, easy-care fabric. Look for polyester fabrics that feel soft to the touch, and consider reversible designs for added versatility.

Some popular options include the Serta Fleece to Faux Shearling Electric Heated Bed Blanket and the Bedsure Heated Blanket, both of which are reversible and made from ultra-insulating materials.

When washing your electric blanket, always detach the power cord first. Some blankets can be dried in a dryer, while others are designed to be air-dried. Be sure to read the manufacturer's care recommendations and follow the instructions carefully.

Here are some general care tips to keep in mind:

Our team of experts at the GH Institute Textiles Lab continuously test top electric blankets from popular brands to evaluate their performance.

They use a climatology chamber to gauge factors such as the time needed for each blanket to reach 70 degrees and how quickly it cools down.

The experts also assess the efficiency of each blanket's electricity use and its durability, including how it fares in wash tests.

Consumer testers play a crucial role in evaluating the ease of use, softness, and appearance of each electric blanket in their own homes.

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If you're looking for a no-frills electric blanket to add a touch of warmth to your living room or guest room, the Bedsure Heated Blanket is a great option.

This throw blanket measures 50 x 60 inches, the perfect size for snuggling up on the couch or as a decorative accent on a bed. Its cozy ribbed design and inviting ribbed flannel and sherpa-like fabric make it a stylish addition to any room.

The Bedsure Heated Blanket heats up quickly, reaching a comfortable warmth in around two minutes. It's also designed with imperceptible wires, so you won't feel like you're sleeping on a bed of spaghetti.

The blanket's controller is intuitive and easy to use, with six effective heat settings to choose from. The automatic shutoff period is adjustable for up to three hours, which is perfect for a cozy night in.

Here are some key features to consider when choosing the Best Basic Throw:

Sunbeam is a well-known brand in the electric blanket market, and for good reason. Their products have consistently performed well in our tests, with testers giving high scores for the cozy feel of the fabric.

One of the standout features of Sunbeam's electric blankets is their lightweight construction. The Sunbeam Royal Ultra Heated Blanket, for example, is made from a fleecy polyester material that's both comfortable and easy to move around in.

In terms of heat settings, Sunbeam's electric blankets offer a range of options. The Sunbeam Royal Ultra Heated Blanket, for instance, has four different heat settings, while the Sunbeam Royal Mink Sherpa has four as well.

Sunbeam's electric blankets are also known for their fast heat-up times. The Bedsure Heated Blanket, which is actually a separate product, has an impressively fast heat-up time, reaching a comfortable warmth in around two minutes. However, it's worth noting that this blanket has a shorter auto shut-off range of up to three hours, whereas Sunbeam's blankets typically have a four-hour auto shut-off feature.

Here are some key features of Sunbeam's electric blankets:

Sunbeam's electric blankets are also designed to be easy to use, with intuitive controls that make it simple to switch between heat settings. The Sunbeam Royal Ultra Heated Blanket, for example, has a single button that you click to cycle through the various heat settings.

Overall, Sunbeam's electric blankets are a great option for anyone looking for a cozy and convenient way to stay warm.

When you're shopping for an electric blanket, look for products that have been certified for safety by reputable Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs) like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories).

These certifications guarantee that the blanket meets current safety standards and has built-in safety features. A label from one of these NRTLs is an assurance that the blanket complies with product safety standards.

A standard safety feature to look for is a control on the power cord that allows you to adjust the temperature setting and turn the blanket off without unplugging the power cord.

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We spent three months testing top-rated electric blankets in a real-world setting, using them daily to get a true sense of their performance, texture, and quality. This extensive testing period allowed us to gather valuable insights into how well each blanket kept us warm.

We evaluated several key factors, including how long each blanket takes to heat up, the evenness and intensity of the heat, and the adjustability of the temperature settings. We also considered the ease of using features like timers and automatic shut-off.

The most important consideration when shopping for an electric blanket is how effective it is at keeping you warm. To test this, we looked at how long each blanket takes to heat up, which ranged from a few minutes to over 10 minutes for some models.

We also tested the texture and comfort of the blanket material, as well as whether or not we felt the heating elements. This helped us determine which blankets were the most comfortable and pleasant to use.

Here are the key factors we considered during testing:

When you're shopping for an electric blanket, look for products that have been certified for safety by reputable Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) like UL and ETL.

These certifications ensure that the product meets current safety standards and has built-in safety features.

A label from an NRTL like UL or ETL is an assurance that the blanket complies with product safety standards.

One standard safety feature to look for is a control on the power cord that allows you to adjust the temperature setting and turn the blanket off without unplugging the power cord.

Despite receiving UL certifications, electric blankets are often recalled, especially during peak seasonality in the fall and winter.

To use an electric blanket safely, never allow anything to be on top of it while it's in use, including other blankets, duvet covers, or pets.

If you're in the market for an electric blanket, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

Fabric is a crucial factor in choosing an electric blanket. Most are made of either microfiber or acrylic, with microfiber being the preferred choice for its softness.

However, it's worth noting that some people may feel the wiring through microfiber fabrics, which can be a drawback.

Acrylic blankets, on the other hand, tend to be wire-free, making them a good option for those who prefer a more seamless experience.

You'll also want to consider the size of the blanket, as they come in a range of options, from throw blankets to Queen and King sizes.

If you're looking for a blanket to snuggle up with on the couch, a throw blanket might be the way to go.

But if you want to keep your entire bed warm, a larger blanket with dual heating might be a better choice.

Some electric blankets also come with an automatic shutdown timer, which can range from 2 to 12 hours.

This feature is designed for safety reasons, so you can rest assured that your blanket will turn off when it's time to sleep.

Some electric blankets come with advanced features like dual controls, allowing each person to personalize the heat on their side of the bed. This is a game-changer for couples who like to snuggle up together.

You can also find electric blankets with multiple heat settings, such as the Beautyrest Plush Electric Blanket, which has 20 adjustable temperature settings. This is perfect for anyone who likes to customize their warmth level.

Some electric blankets even have a preheat option, like the Beautyrest Plush Electric Blanket, which allows you to warm up your bed before jumping in. This is a great feature for anyone who likes to get cozy before bedtime.

Here are some key features to look for in an electric blanket:

Some electric blankets are also designed for portability, like the Cozee Battery Operated Cordless Heated Blanket, which features a rechargeable battery pack and a weather-resistant shell. This is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay cozy on the go.

The Cozee Cordless is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay warm and cozy on the go. It features a rechargeable battery pack that makes it completely portable.

One of its standout features is its ability to heat up quickly, taking just 5 minutes to warm up. This means you can get comfortable fast, even in cold weather. The Cozee Cordless also has an automatic shut-off feature that kicks in after 5 hours, so you don't have to worry about it running all night.

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The blanket itself is made of microfiber plush, which provides a cozy feel. It also has a weather-resistant shell, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Reviewers have praised the Cozee Cordless for its innovative features and excellent customer service.

Here are some key features of the Cozee Cordless:

Overall, the Cozee Cordless is a great option for anyone who wants to stay warm and cozy on the go. Its innovative features and excellent customer service make it a standout in the market.

Some electric blankets offer a range of features that can enhance your experience. These include dual controls, which allow each person to personalize the heat on their side of the bed.

You can find electric blankets with up to 20 heat settings, giving you the flexibility to choose the perfect temperature for your comfort. The Beautyrest Heated Plush Blanket, for example, has 20 adjustable heat settings.

Some electric blankets, like the Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Blanket, feature divided zones with dual controls. This allows each person to control the heat on their side of the bed independently.

Other electric blankets, such as the Sealy Electric Blanket, offer reversible materials that are super soft and snuggly. This can add an extra layer of comfort to your sleeping experience.

Some electric blankets also come with smart home compatibility, allowing you to sync with smart outlets and automatic timers. This can make it easier to control your electric blanket and save energy.

Here are some key features to look for in an electric blanket:

These features can make a big difference in your experience with an electric blanket. By choosing an electric blanket with these features, you can enjoy a cozier and more comfortable sleeping experience.

The Warmee Smart Heated Throw is a top-notch electric blanket that offers a range of convenient features. It has a plush velvet fabric with ultra thin wires, making it incredibly soft and cozy.

One of the standout features of this blanket is its app- or voice-assistant-controlled heat and time settings. You can adjust the temperature and set a timer using your smartphone or voice assistant, making it easy to control the heat level without having to get out of bed.

This electric blanket is also larger than most throw blankets, measuring 60" x 70" in size. It's perfect for snuggling up on the couch or as a bed warmer.

Here are some key features of the Warmee Smart Heated Throw:

The Warmee Smart Heated Throw is an expensive option, but its advanced features and high-quality construction make it worth considering.

The electric blanket is a game-changer for anyone who loves to snuggle up with a good book or take a nap. It's a Good Housekeeping Bedding Awards winner, which speaks for itself.

One of the standout features of this blanket is its ability to heat up quickly, which is a major plus for anyone who likes to get cozy fast. It's also got even heat distribution, so you won't be left with any cold spots.

Here are some of the pros of this electric blanket:

While it's hard to find any major cons, some online reviewers wish the cord was a bit longer. But overall, this electric blanket is a great value and a must-have for anyone who loves to stay warm and toasty.

The GH Bedding Awards winner is definitely a great starting point. This product has received recognition for its quality.

One of the standout features of this product is its ability to quickly heat up. This means you can enjoy a warm and cozy night's sleep without having to wait long.

The even heat distribution is also a notable advantage. This ensures that you stay comfortable throughout the night, without any cold spots.

The soft, cozy material used to make this product is a big plus. It's perfect for snuggling up on a chilly evening.

Here are some of the key pros of this product:

The cons of a product can be a deal-breaker for some people. The cord could be longer, according to some online reviewers.

One reviewer mentioned that the cord is a bit short, which might be a problem for people who like to use their heated blanket in different locations. However, this is a minor issue for most people.

The only other con mentioned in the article is that the cord could be longer, but that's about it.