Step right into the world of heated vests as we embark on an exciting journey through warmth and comfort!
Due to their fantastic safeguards and ability to keep you warm in freezing temperatures, they are a worry-free option for all.
Now, if you’re new to the whole heated vest scene, you might be wondering: are these things safe? Well, you’ll be glad to hear that heated jackets and similar gear are like your trusty sidekick, watching out for you.
They have lots of cool safety functions to keep you warm and safe, no matter how cold it is outside.
And guess what? This guide isn’t just about women’s heated vests – it’s your go-to resource for all the safety measures and information related to heated vests, whether they’re designed for men or women.
So, are you ready to discover the truth about heated vests and their safety? Then let’s begin!
How is heated Clothing Evaluated?
Heated clothing has a fascinating history, dating back to World War 2 when pilots used heated flight suits to combat the frigid altitudes they flew in for extended hours. As technology advanced, heated clothing became even more accessible and versatile, with various types now available, including vests, pants, socks, base layers, hats, hoodies, slippers, scarves, gloves, and mittens.
Advancements in Battery Technology for Heated Clothing
In the past, heated clothing relied on motorcycle batteries for power, but advancements in battery technology, particularly small lithium-ion batteries, have transformed the industry. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology examined the safety and thermal comfort of heated clothing in extremely cold conditions.
Journal of Applied Physiology
Nowadays, most heated apparel utilizes one or two small lithium-ion batteries, combined with carbon fibre heating elements, to provide warmth. With these batteries, most heated clothing can keep you cosy for anywhere from 4 to 16 hours.
Now, without wasting a single minute let’s dive into some most common safety questions about heated clothing.
Does Heated Vest Cause Death?
The answer is no. Heated vests are not cause to death, they are made of clothing that uses 5V, 7.3V, 12V, or 20V, which is too low to injure a person. It takes around 40V before any potential for injury arises. Reputable heated clothing manufacturers take safety seriously and include a range of protective features in their products.
However, they can contribute to heat stress if they are used improperly. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has published research that shows that heat can cause stress. This is because heat can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to anxiety and other symptoms of stress.
CPSC Evaluation & Heated Clothing Safety Features
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has also been involved in evaluating the safety of heated clothing. These safety systems shut down the power in case of any issue with the battery or heating zones. Short-circuit protection, smart voltage detection, overcharge and discharge protection, overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, short-circuit protection, overtemperature and undertemperature protection, and loopback protection are all standard safety features.
Water Safety and Heated Clothing
Even if you were to suddenly find yourself in a body of water while wearing heated clothing, there is no risk of death. The heating elements are protected by waterproof membranes, and the voltage is not enough to cause harm. It is important to avoid jumping into water with the battery in the clothing, as this could damage the battery.
Key Features and Working Mechanism of heated vests:
Heating Elements:
Heated vests are equipped with heating elements, usually made of carbon fiber or similar materials, integrated into the fabric. These elements have a high resistance to heat and are designed to distribute warmth evenly without creating discomfort or hotspots.
Power Supply:
Rechargeable batteries or USB or other connectors can be used to connect heated vests to a power supply. Longer heating times are now possible thanks to the development of lithium-ion battery technology, which has allowed for their use in small, light devices.
Temperature Control:
The majority of heated vests have temperature controls that can be adjusted in accordance with the user’s preferences and the outside temperature. Multiple heat zones are available in some vests, allowing for customized heating in particular areas.
Safety Features
To ensure user safety, reputable heated vest manufacturers incorporate various safety features. These may include short-circuit protection, smart voltage detection, overcharge and discharge protection, overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and more.
Can my heated jacket catch fire?
No, it is highly unlikely for a heated jacket or any other heated garment to catch fire. The heating elements in most heated clothing use carbon fiber, which has a flash point above 1800°F, making it almost impossible for the heat zones or clothing to catch fire.
Additionally, most heated clothing features an internal thermostat that controls the temperature and shuts off the jacket immediately if it exceeds the set temperature.
While there have been rare incidents of defective batteries catching fire, this usually occurs during charging, not while the battery is in the heated clothing.
Conclusion
The result is that heated clothing, including heated vests, is safe to wear according to comprehensive research, studies, and safety evaluations. Sincere manufacturers have included a number of safety precautions to add an extra layer of protection because the modest voltage levels used in heated clothing are insufficient to damage humans. Users of heated clothing can confidently embrace the warmth and comfort of heated garments without any concern for safety as long as they adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and use heated clothing properly. Keep yourself cozy and relaxed while taking full use of the wintertime!