Frequently asked technical questions about an infrared blanket
In short
Watts, degrees, EMF and materials: the technical questions everyone asks about an infrared blanket, answered in a down to earth way.
- FIR is the type of warmth most blankets use
- Electricity use depends on power, setting and duration
- Always check EMF in the specifications
- Never repair the wiring yourself
Technical questions about an infrared blanket almost always come down to the same thing: how many watts, how warm, what does it cost in electricity and what about EMF. You will find the answers together below.
One thing first: for exact values, the specifications of your own model always take priority. This article gives you the framework to read those specifications.
What exactly does FIR mean?
FIR stands for far infrared: invisible light waves with a relatively long wavelength that you experience as warmth. Most sauna blankets work with FIR because many people experience that warmth as soft and enveloping. Good to know: the amount of warmth you feel mainly depends on the temperature you set, not on magical properties of the material. You will find more explanation in our article on how FIR warmth works.
How much power does an infrared blanket have?
The power in watts differs per model and partly determines how quickly the blanket warms up. A higher power usually warms up a little faster, but on its own says nothing about quality. You will find the exact power in the specifications or on the rating plate of your blanket. Bear in mind that the blanket does not run at full power all the time: as soon as the set temperature is reached, the heating often scales back.
How much electricity does it use?
The electricity use depends on the power, the set temperature and how long you use the blanket. You can roughly estimate it yourself: divide the power in watts by 1000 to get kilowatts, multiply by the time of use in hours for the consumption in kWh, and multiply that by your electricity rate. In practice it often turns out lower than the maximum calculation, because the blanket is not constantly at full power.
What temperature range is usual?
Most sauna blankets can be set from about 35 °C to around 80 °C. Start low and build up gently until it feels pleasantly warm. Warmer is not automatically better, and a higher setting mainly means you reach the point where it becomes uncomfortable sooner. A timer belongs on a well made model, so you do not go on for too long.
What about EMF?
EMF, or electromagnetic fields, is a common question with electric heating products. It is good to be down to earth about this: every electrical device gives off electromagnetic fields to a greater or lesser extent. Many manufacturers of quality blankets take care in their design to keep EMF as low as possible. If you want certainty about this, check the product information for the specific model or ask the supplier. We make no health claims here and refer you to the specifications.
Which materials are used?
An infrared blanket usually consists of a protective, often water repellent outer layer, an insulating layer, heating elements and a comfortable inner side. Ideally the outside is easy to wipe down and hard wearing. The exact materials differ per model. The product page gives more information on that.
Specifications say more than marketing terms: look at watts, range, quality mark and finish.
How long does a sauna blanket last?
The lifespan depends on the quality and on how you look after the blanket. Being careful with the wiring, storing it dry, not folding it sharply and cleaning it gently on a regular basis all extend its lifespan. A well made, well maintained blanket usually lasts for years.
Always fold your blanket along the same loose folds and never sharply over a heating wire. That way you prevent the most common wear spot.
Which safety features are important?
Look for a CE mark, overheating protection and automatic switch off. These make sure the blanket does not get too hot and switches off when the timer runs out. A well made plug and a sturdy cord are part of that too. Always check before use that there is no damage to the cover, the wiring or the connection.
Tinkering with the wiring yourself is not a good idea because of the electrical parts. If your blanket is not working properly or you see damage, do not use it and contact customer service. Safety always comes first, even if it seems to be only minor damage.
Everything behind the plug deserves the same attention, because that is where things most often go wrong in practice. In the explanation of which circuit and which extension cord are suitable you can read how to convert watts to amps, what a 16 amp circuit can handle and why you should always unroll a cable reel completely.
- Wide temperature range and adjustable timer
- Sturdy finish and an outside that is easy to wipe clean
- 60 days to change your mind and 2 year warranty
In conclusion
With technical questions the same golden rule always applies: the specifications of your model take priority for exact values such as power, temperature and materials. Have a question that is not covered here? Look at the product information in the infrared sauna blanket collection or read on in the knowledge base on infrared sauna blankets.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between FIR and ordinary heat?
FIR stands for far infrared, heat with a relatively long wavelength. You experience it as a soft, enveloping warmth. How warm it feels mainly depends on the setting you choose.
How do I calculate the energy use of my blanket?
Divide the power in watts by 1000, multiply by the number of hours of use and then by your electricity rate. The result is an upper limit, because the blanket doesn't run at full power for the whole session.
Is a higher wattage better?
Not necessarily. A higher power usually warms up faster, but says nothing about the finish, safety or comfort. So also look at certification, timer and materials.
How do I know how much EMF my blanket gives off?
That's not shown on the blanket itself as standard. Check the product information for the specific model or ask the supplier. Every electrical device gives off fields to a greater or lesser extent.
Can I repair a broken sauna blanket myself?
No, leave the wiring alone. If you see damage or the blanket isn't working properly, stop using it and contact customer service.
Which certifications matter?
In any case look for CE marking, overheating protection and automatic shutoff after the timer. A sturdy cable and a neatly finished plug belong on the list too.
