Energy Supply

An estate near us was apparently built with very green credentials, and consists mostly of multi-storey town houses (tall thin houses in a terrace). They have both photovoltaic and hot water panels on the roofs. I don’t know how much of the water is stored, but I’m guessing it’s only for hot water supply, not for space heating.

BTW – I’m lying wrapped in an electric blanket

Oooh, That frightens me. I know somebody (or, I should say, knew somebody) who died wrapped in an electric blanket.

who died wrapped in an electric blanket.

How? Electrocuted? Burnt? It’s not intended to be a morbid question. I’m quite aware of what a heated blanket is.

For my part, this thing (with an automatic three hour timer) has six heat levels. I, uh, find level 1 to be perfectly decent. I lay the blanket over myself and then lay the duvet over that, so no need for more heat, the first setting is fine.

I do wonder what kind of wiring is inside it though, given that it is, well, mains. It seems pretty resilient though, claims I can stick the blanket part in a washing machine (WTF?).

How? Electrocuted?

Yes.

It was many (many) years ago and I am sure that the safety of such blankets has improved.

But, as you say, it is mains voltage. I used to have one and the instructions said use it to heat the bed and unplug it before getting into bed. I put it in the bin after hearing the sad news. (pre re-cycling)