If your electric blanket stopped working after washing, it’s likely because the wiring inside got damaged or wet. Electric blankets have delicate heating wires that can break or short out when exposed to water or improper handling during cleaning. This is a common reason they fail after washing.
Sometimes, simply unplugging the blanket for a few minutes and plugging it back in can reset the internal system. However, if the heating element or wires are broken, the blanket might not work again. Knowing what to check and how to handle your blanket safely can save you time and frustration.
Diagnosing Why Your Electric Blanket Is Not Working After Washing
If your electric blanket stops working after washing, the problem often lies in wiring issues, power connections, or control unit faults. You can look for visible damage and test parts to find the cause.
Common Causes Of Malfunction After Washing
Water or moisture can damage the internal wiring of your blanket. Wiring might have loosened or broken during washing or drying. Overheating during drying or using the wrong settings can also harm electrical parts.
Another common issue is the controller unit failing after washing. The control unit could short circuit or lose connection. Washing on too high a setting might cause this.
If your blanket uses a fuse or reset button, it may trigger due to moisture or a fault in the wires. This could block power from reaching the blanket’s heating parts.
Visual Inspection For Damage
Start by carefully looking at the blanket for any visible damage. Check the wires, connectors, and control unit for cracks, burn marks, or loose ends. Also, see if the plug or cord is frayed or broken.
If you spot any break or damage in wiring or connector points, the blanket likely won’t work until it is fixed. Don’t try to use a blanket with exposed wires to avoid electric shocks.
Look for signs of water damage or corrosion near the control or plug. If any part looks wet or rusted, it may be a cause of failure.
Testing Power Connections And Controls
Unplug the blanket and plug it back after a few minutes to reset the electronic control unit. This often fixes small errors.
If you have a multimeter, check continuity in the wires and heating elements. Lack of continuity means there is a break somewhere, blocking flow of electricity.
Test the power outlet with another device to confirm it works. Also, try a different control unit if available, since controls often fail after washing.
If the fuse or reset button on the control unit is tripped, reset it according to the manual. This can restore power if the blanket isn’t heating.
How To Safely Restore Or Replace Your Electric Blanket
You can often fix an electric blanket that stopped working after washing by resetting it and checking connections. If that doesn’t work, knowing when to get professional help and how to pick a new blanket is important for safety and comfort.
Safe Troubleshooting Steps
First, unplug your blanket and wait a few minutes to reset its controls. Check the plug and connectors for any loose or misaligned parts. Look over the wires for visible damage like cuts or frays.
Make sure your blanket is completely dry before plugging it back in. If it’s damp, use low heat or air dry it fully. Avoid high heat which can damage the wiring inside.
Test the blanket on a low setting to see if it heats up slowly. If it still doesn’t work, avoid trying to fix internal parts yourself. Using the blanket when it’s damaged can be risky.
When To Consider Professional Repair
If your blanket has obvious damage to cords or controls, or if it won’t reset and heat even after drying, get a technician to check it. Professionals can test the wiring safely and replace broken parts.
Avoid opening the blanket yourself because it can expose you to electrical hazards. A qualified repair person can spot problems that aren’t visible.
If your blanket is old or the repair cost is high, it might not be worth fixing. Safety is the top priority when dealing with electrical devices you use daily.
Choosing A New Electric Blanket
Look for blankets with clear safety features like automatic shutoff and overheat protection. Check the label to confirm it meets safety standards.
Pick the right size and material for your needs. Some blankets offer washable controls or quick-drying fabrics, making maintenance easier.
Compare product warranties and customer reviews to find a reliable brand. Replacing an old or damaged blanket with a safe, modern option is a smart choice for long-term use.
