The minus points in the winter are much more pleasant for the driver, if the vehicle over a heated seat pad has. Therefore, many modern vehicles have these. But it still does not belong to the standard equipment of most car manufacturers. However, it is possible to retrofit, or install later.

heated seat cushion– General

A heated seat pad usually consists of two mats, which meet the requirements for the Garden chairresemble. These are attached taut during cultivation, so that slipping around is prevented. The heated seat pad has a cable with multi-level switch, which regulates the heating power. The switch is connected to the cigarette lighter. The heated seat pad not only allows you to heat up quickly, it also increases your seating comfort while driving.
The heated seat pad can be installed by yourself. In addition, you can simply leave the installation to a specialist workshop.

How the heated seat cushion works

The functional principle of a heated seat pad in the car is very simple. With respect to the seat cushion are heating wires, which are arranged serpentine. These are operated electrically by means of the cigarette lighter. Depending on the setting, the heating elements of the seat support are heated by the current short circuit. This leads to the development of heat in the area of ​​the back and the buttocks. Some models of heated seat covers also have carbon fibers. These are powered by two electrodes and then heated. The warm-up time is slightly faster in the seat pads with carbon technology than in the seat covers, which have no carbon fiber.
The seat cushions, which can be retrofitted, work on the same principle. However, the heating elements are installed under these under the seat cover. Their biggest advantage is that the heating elements can not slip because of this fact. The same seating comfort is offered. The potentially disturbing cables are hidden in the vehicle interior, so that they are not actually present. So these are almost a seat heater.
The heat development of the heated seat pads is very fast, so that after 10 to 15 minutes, the maximum of the heating systems is reached. Depending on the model of the seat cushion, the temperature reached is around 30 degrees Celsius. The differences between the models basically affect the heat distribution, which is better with the higher quality models.

Advantages and disadvantages of heated seat pads

The biggest advantages of a heated seat cushion are the excellent heat load and the fast warm-up time. One of the advantages is the high level of seating comfort. In addition, these can be purchased at low prices.
Among the disadvantages of the seat covers is a lower seating comfort compared to the retrofit models for installation. The cables can not be hidden as well and may be distracting. But the price of a retrofitted seat heater is much higher and also brings with it the necessary installation costs.

Noteworthy before buying

The optimal heated seat pad should meet some criteria. This relates primarily to the heating power. The speed of the warm-up is decided by the technology used. There are also differences in heat distribution among the different models available. In addition, there may be differences in the maximum heating power. This should be followed before buying. In addition, a step-adjustable seat cushion should be selected so that the heat can be adjusted to personal preference.
The installation is also an important test criterion. The high-quality models can very often be installed exclusively by a specialist. Otherwise, almost all models are attached to the seat by means of the belt system. When choosing the model, it should be noted that the cable is long enough. In addition, the tap-changer should be easy to operate while driving. The installation itself takes about ten minutes. Otherwise, even the cheapest models have a high level of seating comfort.
The retrofittable models require the installation of the cables inside the vehicle. Although this eliminates the annoying cables, but on many models, the circuit is installed in the cockpit. And this is not recommended without the expert. Therefore, the installation of a seat heating in the workshop should be done.
The price-performance ratio often plays the decisive role before buying. The heated seat covers are much cheaper than the seat heaters. In addition, these account for the cost of installation, as this can easily be done even. But some customers prefer a retrofittable model, despite the high costs involved. But whether a seat pad or a model for installation – in both cases, the motorist in the winter over the additional heat will be more than grateful.