When winter sets in, we must set out to find ways of keeping ourselves warm. Some people like to bundle up in extra layers of clothing, while others opt for more innovative solutions, like heated jackets. But how do these jackets actually work?
Heated jackets use a simple principle to keep you warm: they convert electricity into heat and then transfer that heat to your body. By doing this, they essentially raise your body temperature, making you feel warmer even in cold weather.
Read on to get more insight into how heated jackets work.
How Do Heated Jackets Work?
There are a few different ways that heated jackets can generate heat. Some use metal wires or coils that are electrically charged, while others make use of chemicals that react to an electric current.
Metal Wires and Coils
The most common type of heated jacket uses metal wires or coils. These are usually made of a material like carbon fiber or steel. When an electric current is passed through these wires, they heat up and generate heat.
This heat is then transferred to your body via the material of the jacket, making you feel warmer. The amount of heat generated by the wires can be controlled by varying the current, which is why most heated jackets come with built-in temperature controls.
Chemical Heating
Chemical heating is not as common in heated jackets, but some manufacturers do use it. In this case, the jacket contains special chemicals that react to an electric current and generate heat. The heat generated by the chemicals is then transferred to your body in the same way as with metal wires.
However, chemical heating is not as efficient as wire heating, which is why it’s not used as often.
Is It Safe to Wear a Heated Jacket?
Yes, it is safe to wear a heated jacket. The materials used in these jackets are the heat generated by the wires or chemicals. Additionally, the heat is only transferred to your body and not to the surrounding air, so there’s no risk of burns.
Pros and Cons of Heated Jackets
Heated jackets have a few advantages over traditional jackets.
Pros
They’re much more effective at keeping you warm. This is because they raise your body temperature instead of just insulating you from the cold air. They’re very versatile.
Heated jackets can be used in a variety of settings, from outdoor activities to office work. They’re usually very lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Cons
They can be expensive. Heated jackets can cost more than traditional jackets, although this cost has been coming down in recent years. Expect to pay at least $100 for a good quality heated jacket.
They require batteries. Most heated jackets need to be plugged into a power source or battery to work. This can be inconvenient, especially if you’re using the jacket for outdoor activities.
When Did Heated Jackets Become Popular?
Heated jackets became popular in the early 2000s when outdoor enthusiasts and workers began using them to stay warm in cold weather. Since then, the technology has become more advanced and the jackets have become more affordable, making them popular among a wider range of people.
How Do I Choose a Heated Jacket?
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a heated jacket.
Type of Heating
First, consider the type of heating element used. Metal wires are the most common and most efficient, so they’re a good choice if you want a jacket that’s both effective and affordable. If you’re looking for a more premium option, you can choose a jacket with chemical heating.
However, keep in mind that these jackets are usually more expensive.
Temperature Controls
Most heated jackets come with built-in temperature controls, which allow you to adjust the amount of heat generated by the jacket. The controls are usually located on the chest or sleeve of the jacket. Look for a jacket with multiple heat settings so you can adjust the amount of heat.
This is a useful feature to have, as it allows you to customize the level of warmth to your needs.
Size and Fit
Another important consideration is the size and fit of the jacket. Heated jackets are available in a range of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that’s comfortable and not too tight or too loose. You should also make sure that the jacket is long enough to cover your torso, as this will help to keep you warm.
Material
Finally, take into account the material of the jacket. Heated jackets are usually made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. These materials are lightweight and durable, making them a good choice for active people.
If you’re looking for a more stylish option, you can also find heated jackets made of leather or denim. With so many different types of heated jackets on the market, it’s important to choose one that’s right for you.
Are There Other Types of Heated Clothing?
In addition to heated jackets, there are also other types of heated clothing available, such as heated gloves, socks, and vests. These items use the same heating technology as heated jackets, but they’re designed for different body parts. For example, heated gloves are ideal for people who work outdoors or in cold warehouses, as they keep your hands warm while you’re working.
Heated socks are a good choice for people with poor circulation, as they can help to increase blood flow and keep your feet warm. Finally, heated vests are a good option for people who want a less bulky alternative to a heated jacket. Vests are typically lighter and more compact, making them easier to wear under regular clothing.
No matter what type of heated clothing you’re looking for, there’s sure to be an option that’s right for you.
Do I Have To Charge a Heated Jacket?
Heated jackets use battery-powered heating elements to generate heat. The batteries are usually located in a pocket on the jacket, and they’re connected to the heating elements by wires. Most heated jackets come with a charger, so you can recharge the batteries when they run low.
However, some jackets come with removable batteries, so you can swap in a fresh set of batteries when the ones in the jacket run out of power. It is a useful feature to have, as it allows you to keep the jacket heated without having to stop and recharge the batteries.
Final Thoughts About Heated Jackets
In conclusion, we now know heated jackets work by converting electricity into heat and then transferring that heat to your body. If to live in extremely cold weather, the extra warmth of a heated jacket may be for you. Heated jackets use either metal wires or coils, or chemicals that react to an electric current, to generate heat.
The heat is then transferred.