Heated apparel, such as jackets, gloves, and socks, can be a lifesaver in cold weather. These garments use electricity to generate heat, keeping you warm and comfortable even in the harshest of conditions. But what does wattage have to do with heated apparel?
What is "wattage" anyway?
First, it's important to understand what wattage is and how it is used to measure electrical power. Wattage is a unit of power that measures the rate at which energy is used or transferred. It is typically abbreviated as "W" and is calculated by multiplying the voltage of an electrical current by the current itself. In other words, wattage is a measure of how much work an electrical device can do in a given time period.
How does wattage relate to heated apparel?
So, what does this have to do with heated apparel? Well, the wattage of a heated garment is directly related to how much heat it can produce. The higher the wattage, the more heat the garment can generate. This means that a garment with a higher wattage will be able to keep you warmer for a longer period of time compared to a garment with a lower wattage.
For example, a heated jacket with a wattage of 16W will generate less heat than a jacket with a wattage of 7W. This is because the 16W jacket is using more electrical power to generate heat, and therefore is able to produce more heat overall.
Not all heated apparel is made the same
Wattage isn't the only factor to consider when choosing heated apparel. The materials and construction of the garment also play a role in how effective it is at keeping you warm. A garment made with high-quality insulation and materials will be able to retain heat better, even if it has a lower wattage.
In addition, the type of heat source used in the garment can also affect its performance. Some heated garments use traditional resistance wire to generate heat, while others use newer technologies like carbon fiber or metallic yarn. These newer heat sources tend to be more efficient and can generate more heat with less wattage.
The secret? More watts = more warmth
So, when it comes to heated apparel, wattage is an important factor to consider. A higher wattage means more heat, which can be beneficial in extremely cold temperatures. However, it's important to also consider the quality of the materials and construction of the garment, as well as the type of heat source used. By considering all of these factors, you can find the best heated apparel for your needs and stay warm and comfortable all winter long.
