Otis Singleton
Electric blankets are a popular way to stay warm during cold weather. They contain wires that heat up when electricity is turned on, with the temperature controlled by a thermostat in the control pad. The Shield Life TheraMat is a popular electric blanket that offers features such as EMF shielding technology, Far Infrared (FIR) heat, and negative ions to maximize comfort and safety. However, like all electric blankets, it may occasionally require repairs due to issues such as loose connections or a broken heating wire. Before attempting any repairs, it is important to determine the cause of the malfunction and ensure that the blanket is unplugged. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to repair a Shield Life electric blanket, covering common issues and offering troubleshooting tips for a cozy and safe night's rest.
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What You'll Learn
Check for loose connections
If your Shield Life electric blanket is not working properly, it could be due to a loose connection. Before attempting any repairs, make sure that the electric blanket is unplugged.
First, inspect the plug and cord for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure that they are intact and securely connected without any loose parts. Next, open the control unit by removing any screws at the back or sides of the unit. Look inside for any loose connections or visible damage, such as burnt components or damaged wires.
Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring from the plug to the control unit and from the control unit to the blanket. A disruption in continuity could indicate a loose connection or a broken circuit. If you find loose wires inside the control unit, tighten them or solder them back into place.
Finally, push all connections back together and use electrical tape to keep the connections tight and secure. By checking for and addressing loose connections, you can often resolve issues with your Shield Life electric blanket.
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Test the outlet
If your Shield Life electric blanket is not working, it could be due to a problem with the outlet. Before attempting any repairs, make sure the blanket is unplugged and always exercise caution when dealing with electrical appliances.
To test the outlet, start by plugging a lamp or another electrical device into the same outlet and turn it on. If the lamp does not turn on, there may be an issue with the outlet or the circuit breaker. Check the circuit breaker and flip the switch back on if necessary.
If the lamp turns on, ensure that the outlet is compatible with your electric blanket. Shield Life electric blankets typically require a nearby 110-120V electrical outlet. If you are unsure, refer to the product manual or the manufacturer's website for specific requirements.
It is also important to check the connections between the blanket, the plug, and the outlet. Make sure the plug is securely connected to the outlet and that the cord is firmly attached to the blanket. Check for any signs of damage, melting, or deformities that could indicate electrical issues. If the connections appear secure and undamaged, proceed to test the blanket for other potential issues.
If your Shield Life electric blanket is a heated mattress pad, it may require two individual plug-in controls, so ensure that both outlets are functioning properly.
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Check the controller
If the control on your electric blanket has suddenly stopped working, there are a few things you can try before calling the manufacturer or replacing the blanket. Firstly, check the connections between the plug, the cord, and the controller. Unplug the blanket and check that all the connections are tight. Push all connections back together and use electrical tape to keep the connections tight in the future.
Then, test the outlet with a lamp to see if there's a problem with the electricity reaching the plug. Flip the switch on the circuit breaker back on if necessary. Press the blanket cord into the plastic connector piece at the foot of the bed until it no longer wiggles. Due to the light inside the controller, it may feel slightly warm to the touch—this is normal.
Turn the controller "On". Depending on your controller model, it may be a toggle switch, or you may need to press the same button several times to cycle through the different heat settings. Most controllers will light up when the blanket is engaged. Set the controller to the highest setting, fold the blanket over a couple of times, and wait about 10 minutes.
Place your hand between the folds of the blanket to test for warmth. If you still feel no heat, there may be a problem with your controller, which may not be repairable. Contact the manufacturer with the information on the defective product, or purchase a new electric blanket.
You can also use a voltmeter to check the voltage and resistance of the blanket's circuits. With the controller turned on, you should have power on two of the contacts, measuring in volts. You can also use the ohms setting to check the blanket for resistance. There should be some resistance across two of the contacts. Find which two either have voltage from the control or resistance from the blanket. The third one will react for the control of the temperature.
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Identify the cause of the malfunction
Electric blankets are a great way to keep warm during the cold months, but they can sometimes malfunction. If your Shield Life electric blanket is not working, there could be a few potential causes. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the blanket is unplugged and disconnected from any power source before attempting to identify the issue.
One common cause of malfunction in electric blankets is loose connections between the plug, cord, and controller. Check that all the connections are tight and secure, and use electrical tape to keep them in place if necessary. If the cord or control unit has been pulled loose, push the connections back together and secure them with tape.
Another potential issue could be a problem with the heating wires inside the blanket. If the wires are broken or damaged, it could cause the blanket to malfunction. Repairs to the heating wires can be complex and may require specialized knowledge.
If your electric blanket has two controllers, you can troubleshoot by swapping the controllers. If the previously faulty side now works, then the issue was with the controller. If the same issue persists, then it is likely a problem with the heating element or wiring.
Additionally, check for any pins or metallic objects stuck in the blanket, as this could also cause a malfunction.
If you are unable to identify the cause of the malfunction or are uncomfortable handling the electric blanket, it is best to seek professional help or consider purchasing a new blanket.
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Replace the fuse
If your electric blanket is not working, it could be due to a blown fuse. Before attempting to replace the fuse, it is important to determine the cause of the malfunction. Unplug the blanket and check that all the connections are tight. If there are no loose connections, the internal fuse may have blown due to excess current.
To replace the fuse, you will need to purchase a new one. It is important to note that the sensitivity of the fuse to heat should not exceed 76 degrees Celsius. When soldering the new fuse, use a soldering iron with a low temperature, as a higher temperature will blow the fuse due to excessive heat. The lowest temperature soldering iron available is typically 20 watts, which produces 120 degrees Celsius. This is still much higher than the 76-degree limit, so caution must be exercised.
One way to install the new fuse is to use two-wire brass connectors. Solder the wire connectors onto the PCB (printed circuit board) at the holes of the fuse. Allow it to cool completely, then push the wires of the new thermal fuse into the holes of the connector wire holder.
It is important to note that if the fuse blew, there was likely a reason for it. Unless the underlying issue is addressed, the replacement fuse may blow again, and the blanket may be unsafe to use.
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