Yes, a heater cartridge does have polarity and it is important to observe the correct polarity when connecting it to a power source.
A heater cartridge typically has two wires, one with a positive charge and one with a negative charge. The positive wire is typically marked with a red or white stripe, while the negative wire is marked with a black or dark-colored stripe.
When connecting the heater cartridge to a power source, it is important to ensure that the positive wire is connected to the positive terminal and the negative wire is connected to the negative terminal. Reversing the polarity can cause the cartridge to malfunction or even damage it.
It is also important to ensure that the power supply voltage and wattage are compatible with the heater cartridge's specifications, as using the wrong voltage or wattage can also cause damage or malfunction. Be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications for the heater cartridge and the power supply to ensure that they are compatible and that the correct polarity is observed.