Power levels
The number of power levels (adjustments) provided in the device.
The more levels provided in the design (with the same maximum power) — the more precisely you can adjust the heating to your preferences. On the other hand, the abundance of adjustments affects the complexity and price of the device, despite the fact that there is not always a need for this. So, for electric sheets (see "Type"),
2 – 3 modes are quite enough — intensive for preheating and one, less often two workers. On the other hand, the opposite situation occurs —
6 or even more power levels.
Fast heating
The presence of a
fast heating mode in the device. In this mode, the heating element operates at increased power, thereby reducing the time required to reach operating temperature. After entering the mode, the heater power usually decreases automatically, but this point needs to be specified separately. Also note that auto switch-off of fast heating and auto-switch of power level are different functions, see below for the last.
Auto-switch of power level
Function
of automatic power reduction of the heater.
The point of this function is that after a long (usually about 2 – 3 hours) operation at high power, the heater automatically reduces the heating intensity. This avoids overexpenditure of energy and overheating of both the device itself and the user. Auto-switch of power level is especially relevant during sleep, when the user cannot independently control the operating mode; therefore, this function is found mainly in electric sheets (see "Type"). In some models, it can be turned off; this point, as well as other features of the work, should be specified separately in each case.
Note that automatic switching from fast mode (see above) to normal mode is not considered auto-switch power — despite the general similarity, these are different functions.
Display
The presence of a
display on the heater.
The display is located on the control panel and is usually a simple LCD screen with 2 to 3 icons. However, even such a screen provides additional convenience, it can display various information about the operation: power level, timer settings, activated heating zones (if there are several), warnings about malfunctions, etc. Note that the presence of a display is a sign an advanced heating pad with extensive capabilities — it does not make sense to use this function in simple models.
Operating time
The operating time is the time until the device auto-shutdown. Therefore the time during which a sheet or blanket works on heating. There are models with an adjustable shutdown timer, which allows you to set the required time for the device to automatically turn off.
Washing
Washing method allowed for the product.
Modern heating pads can be designed for both
manual and
machine wash. Note that both of these terms are rather conditional. So, “manual” washing can be carried out both manually and in an activator-type machine (semi-automatic) and even in an automatic “washer” if it has a special manual/delicate washing programme. Machine washable items can also be washed by hand.
Note that both options may provide specific requirements for washing conditions — in particular, a temperature limit. Therefore, before washing the heating pad, you must carefully study the corresponding section of the instructions anyway.
