Heating up a silicone rubber strip heater (120V) is pretty straightforward. However, not using it correctly can damage the silicone rubber strip heater or you. Below are the steps to safely use and heat up your silicone rubber strip heater:
Steps to Heat Up a Silicone Rubber Strip Heater
1. Find the Heater Specifications:
Make sure that the silicone rubber strip heater is rated for 120V, and matched to the current measures needed in your electrical system. You will also need to determine the wattage (e.g. 50W, 100W, 200W...) and make sure the voltage rated for your outlet.
2. Check the Heater for Damage
Before using the silicone rubber strip heater, perform an inspection and make certain there are not visible signs of damage or wear (e.g. cuts, frays, exposed wire or metals). Do not operate a silicone rubber heating strip that shows damage.
3. Connect to a Power Source:
Once you have verified there is no damage to your silicone rubber strip heater, plug it into a 120V AC electrical outlet. When using a temperature controller, connect the silicone rubber strip heater to the temperature controller and plug the controller into the outlet.
4. Set Temperature (Optional):
If you are using a temperature controller or thermostat, set the desired temperature on the unit. Silicone heaters usually do not have temperature controls as part of the heater so using a thermostat will help control the heat output and help prevent overheating.
Some of the strip heaters may have a built-in thermostat that turns off once a set temperature is reached. In these cases, you do not need to connect any controls.
5. Give Time for Heating:
After you have turned on the strip heater, the strip heater will begin to heat. Depending on how much wattage it has and the model, this could be a matter of seconds or minutes.
If you are using a manual on/off switch (without thermostat control), keep a close eye on the manual control and not exceed any limits to avoid any overheating of the heater.
6. Monitor the Temperature (Optional):
You could also include a thermometer to measure the surface temperature of the silicone rubber heater. Depending on the heater model, certain silicone heaters can reach temperatures from 37°C to as high as 180°C or more.
7. Shut Off After Use:
If you have achieved the desired temperature or used the strip heater for the desired amount of time, shut it off either at the power source or the thermostat switch (if being used).
Do NOT leave the heater on unattended for long periods.
