Frequently Asked Questions

So how does it make "Instant Heat"?
The process begins with the clear vinyl packet filled with a clear, non-toxic, liquid and an activator button floating around.  You just grab the button, give it a click, and this causes enough friction to shock the solution into crystallizing.  Once one molecule crystallizes, the entire contents crystallizes and turns white and hot! 

How long does the heat last?
It really depends on three factors: 
Size, How it is used, & how well it's insulated. 
The Small Handwarmer Size HW35 will last about an hour, but anywhere from 1/2 hour to 1 1/2 hours is normal.  The Medium Size HW410 last about an hour or 1 1/2 hours.   The Large HW818 lasts 1 1/2 hours to 2 1/2 hours normally.
To make the pad's heat last longer than normal, do the following things:

• First, once the clicker has activated the pad and it gets hot, make sure to squeeze the pad well to get it soft and flexible.  This will bring the pad to its maximum heat and will therefore make the heat last longer.  (A LOT longer!)

• Second, keep the cold air away from the pad.  If using it for handwarmer use, put it inside your pocket for instance, instead of just in your hand.

• Third, keep the pad as insulated as possible.  Use an insulated pouch, muff, covers, etc.   This will make a big difference too.

Why is it reusable?
It's reusable because the heat is formed from a phsical reaction that is reversible.  The heat is caused from the chemical changing from liquid to solid.  By heating the chemical hotter than 130 degrees for a long enough period of time, (boiling or microwaving by the instructions), the solid can be melted back to liquid.  Once in the liquid state, it can be stored for an indefinate amount of time and be ready to activate again!    

How many times is it reusable?
Hundreds of times.   The process  of the physical reaction is reusable forever--until the vinyl is broken.  (Just don't cut the vinyl, let your dog eat it, or run over it with a truck, and you can use it for years!)

Each pad does have a One-Year-Limited-Warrenty in case you find a defect of some sort in the vinyl (or anything else).  (We assume that if the pad has a defect of some sort you should find it within a year and we'll replace it for you.)

Why does it feel so much better than a regular heating pad?
The Heat Wave gives you a therapeutic "moist heat" type of heating pad, instead of a "dry heat".  If you've never had a doctor, chiropractor, massage therapist or a physical therapist use "moist heat" therapy on you, just remember how good a soak in a spa or hot tub feels--that's "moist heat" therapy.  It's like comparing the therapeutic affects of a "hot tub" compared to the affects of a hair dryer.  It's that big of a difference.

What is the solution inside?  Is it safe?
The chemical inside is a super saturated solution of Sodium Acetate and Water.  It's NON-TOXIC.   It's even edible.  This chemical is also used as a food preservative!   This means that it's safe for children or pets too!

Can us use it for a cold pack?
Yes!  Just keep the pad in its liquid state so that it stays soft and flexible and store in the refridgerator or place in the freezor for twenty minutes. 

Where are they made?
The Heat Wave and it's custom made pouches are all MADE IN AMERICA!!

How quickly can I get my order?
Once we receive your order, it will be processed within 24-48 hours, so you will receive it within days!