There is some evidence that melatonin may suppress the development of certain tumors. Some scientists have speculated that SLF-EMFs could cause cancer through other mechanisms, such as by reducing levels of the hormone melatonin. Unlike high-energy (ionizing) radiation, EMFs in the non-ionizing part of the electromagnetic spectrum cannot damage DNA or cells directly. No mechanism by which SLF (Super low frequency)- EMFs (Electromagnetic field) or radiofrequency radiation could cause cancer has been identified. Įlectric blankets also present a burn risk to those who cannot feel pain, such as those with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, or who are unable to react to it, such as small children, quadriplegics, and the elderly. In the United Kingdom, it is estimated that 5,000 fires per year are caused by faulty electric blankets, of which 99% are believed to have been caused by blankets 10 years or older. Old or damaged blankets are a concern of fire safety officials, due to the combination of heat, electricity, the abundance of flammable bedding material, and a sleeping occupant. Such blankets also include 12-volt blankets designed for in-car use they tend to shut off automatically every 45 minutes or so. In the US, such blankets are sold by Soft Heat, Serta, and Select Comfort. Some electric blankets work on relatively low voltage (12 to 24 volts), including those that plug in to ordinary household electrical outlets. Older blankets are considered fire hazards. Older blankets (prior to about 2001) may not have a shut-off mechanism users run the risk of overheating. Newer electric blankets have a shutoff mechanism to prevent the blanket from overheating or catching fire. Blankets can be purchased with rheostats that regulate the heat by managing body heat and blanket temperatures, ensuring a comfortable experience. Carbon fiber is also used as the heating element in many high-end heated car seats. Some modern electric blankets use carbon fiber elements that are less bulky and conspicuous than older heating wires. The heating of an area can be seen with a thermal camera after two minutes under a comforter.
Some modern "low voltage" electric blankets have thin carbon fiber wires and work on 12 to 24 volts.
The electric blanket may be used to pre-heat the bed before use or to keep the occupant warm while in bed.Įlectric blankets use between 15 and 115 watts. Blankets for two-person beds often have separate controls for each side of the bed. Įlectric blankets usually have a control unit that adjusts the amount of heat the blanket produces by pulsing current at different intervals. and Canada, where it is called an "electric blanket". An electric overblanket is placed above the top bed sheet, and is the most common type in the U.S. and Canada, where it is less common, it is called an electric heated mattress pad. This is the most common type in the UK and Commonwealth countries, where it is known by default as an "electric blanket" in the U.S. An electric underblanket is placed above the mattress and below the bottom bed sheet. Types include underblankets, overblankets, throws, and duvets. An electric blanket is a blanket that contains integrated electrical heating wires.