Heating pad on VX?
Nov 7, 2012 | 10:27 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2007
Posts: 21
Heating pad on VX?
I'm not sure if this is the best place to ask, or if the disability travel forum would be better...
I'm having muscle spasms in my back and shoulders. Heat helps a lot. Should there be a problem plugging my heating pad in and letting it run for most of the flight? We're in main cabin select bulkhead seats (middle/window), if that makes a difference.
As an alternative, should there be a problem getting those chemical heat packs through security? I'm thinking therma-care or similar where you expose them to air and they get hot.
Thanks!
I'm having muscle spasms in my back and shoulders. Heat helps a lot. Should there be a problem plugging my heating pad in and letting it run for most of the flight? We're in main cabin select bulkhead seats (middle/window), if that makes a difference.
As an alternative, should there be a problem getting those chemical heat packs through security? I'm thinking therma-care or similar where you expose them to air and they get hot.
Thanks!
Nov 7, 2012 | 10:36 am
#2
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: May 2001
Location: LAX; AA EXP, MM; HH Gold
Posts: 31,789
Generally, the power plugs on airplanes deliver a max of about 75 watts, and most electric heating pads will draw several multiples of that.
Don't know about the chemical heating pads, but the TSA permits self-heating MREs in carryons, so perhaps the therma-care type would similarly be permitted.
Don't know about the chemical heating pads, but the TSA permits self-heating MREs in carryons, so perhaps the therma-care type would similarly be permitted.
Nov 7, 2012 | 10:52 am
#3
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Orlando, FL, US
Programs: DL-Dirt Medallion;US-Cast Iron Preferred
Posts: 3,617
I'm using a large heating pad right now, and the electrical specs stamped on it say "42 watts". I'm not sure if lower heat settings use less, or if the temp is just varied by cycling the elements on and off for differing amounts of time. If I can find my kill-a-watt, I'll see what it says.
Nov 7, 2012 | 1:32 pm
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2007
Posts: 21
Ah, I hadn't thought of googling for a wattage figure...
Virgin says "Each pair of outlets at every row of three can support a total of 225 watts per this certification. When one outlet is drawing 150 watts, then the second one is limited to a maximum draw of 75 watts."
My heating pad says 70W, so that shouldn't be a problem. I can't imagine it causing interference. I'd just plan on leaving the other plug in our row for whomever has the aisle, and run all of our entertainment electronics off their batteries. (Or better yet, use IFE)
Virgin says "Each pair of outlets at every row of three can support a total of 225 watts per this certification. When one outlet is drawing 150 watts, then the second one is limited to a maximum draw of 75 watts."
My heating pad says 70W, so that shouldn't be a problem. I can't imagine it causing interference. I'd just plan on leaving the other plug in our row for whomever has the aisle, and run all of our entertainment electronics off their batteries. (Or better yet, use IFE)