How To Fix Your Electric Blanket Control

At least 25 million Americans use electric blankets each year, estimates the Electric Blanket Institute, a consumer guide. Electric blankets warm the bed through wires than run through the blanket. If your blanket is not working correctly, it's most likely due to a loose connection between the plug, the cord, and the controller. Check the connections before throwing out your old electric blanket and buying a new one.

Tip: Due to the light inside the controller it may feel slightly warm to the touch, this is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about. Always disconnect the controller and cord from the blanket before laundering it.

Step 1

Test the outlet with a lamp to see if there's a problem with the electricity reaching the plug. Flip the switch on the circuit breaker back on if necessary.

Step 2

Press the blanket cord into the plastic connector piece at the foot of the bed until it no longer wiggles. Check the connection between the plug and the connector at the foot of the bed. If applicable, check the connection between the cord and the controller near the top of the bed.

Step 3

Turn the controller "On." Depending upon your controller model, it may be a toggle switch or you may just press the same button several times to cycle through the different heat settings. Most controllers will light up when the blanket is engaged.

Step 4

Set the controller to the highest setting, fold the blanket over a couple times, and wait about 10 minutes.

Step 5

Place your hand between the folds of the blanket to test for warmness. Although you won't normally feel heat from the blanket laying flat on the mattress, the folded blanket produces higher heat. If you still feel no heat, there may be a problem with your controller, which is not repairable.

Step 6

Contact the manufacturer with the information on the defective product, or purchase a new electric blanket. Do not attempt to open the controller or fix it yourself.