Are Car Seat Covers Safe For Heated Car Seats?
24th May 2023
Heated seats are no longer limited to high-end vehicles. Nowadays, even standard automobiles have heated seats, giving a comfortable driving experience for everyone. Imagine this: after surviving the terrible cold outside on a winter day, you open your car door and are met by a warm and comfortable interior. You activate the seat warmers with a simple push of a button, increasing your degree of comfort by a notch or two. What a feeling, right?
If you’re a car owner who values the preservation of your vehicle's pristine look and resale value, you may have thought of using accessories to protect your interiors from the inevitable wear and tear of daily use.
And when it comes to protecting your cherished heated seats, one accessory stands out as a popular option: car seat covers. These versatile additions not only protect your car's upholstery but also help to keep it looking clean and beautiful.
Yet, you may find yourself wondering, "Are seat covers safe for heated seats?" Well, it is a valid concern, considering the importance of both comfort and protection. To help you answer that question, we’ll discuss how do heated seat covers work and what are the important things you need to know before buying sear cover for heated seat. So read on to find out…
What Are Heated Seats And How Do They Work?
Heated seats in cars are a feature that gives warmth and comfort to the vehicle's occupants. They usually have heating components integrated in the chairs that can be engaged to emit heat. When the heating elements are activated, they warm up the seat cushion and, in certain cases, the seatback, producing a snug and comfortable environment, especially in colder weather or in frigid places.
Heated seats are often operated by a switch or button on the dashboard or centre console of the car. The controls enable the driver and passengers to control the intensity or temperature of the heat radiated by the seats. Some vehicles even have different heating zones, allowing individual occupants to customize their seat temperature.
The heating elements in heated seats are typically made of carbon fibres or electrical coils that generate heat when an electric current passes through them. They are designed to distribute the heat evenly across the seat surface, ensuring consistent warmth. The warmth from the heated seats can help alleviate muscle tension, provide relief from cold weather, and enhance overall comfort during long drives.
Will Seat Covers Make Heated Seats Lose Effectiveness?
The truth is, car seat covers can potentially affect the efficiency of your heated seat system. Naturally, with seat covers in place, you might notice that the seats warm up or cool down slightly more slowly. However, the overall effectiveness of the heated seats will not be significantly affected by this minor change. Keep in mind, though, that different car manufacturers may have varied recommendations for the use of heated seat covers. To find out if seat coverings are appropriate for your individual automobile model, consult your owner's manual or seek advice from an upholstery professional who can give you the right recommendations.
Will Seat Covers Make Heated Seats Lose Effectiveness?
Whilst seat covers may slightly reduce the efficiency of your heated seat system, you don’t have to worry much because it won’t be a major change, though. And if you're considering using seat covers on your heated seats, here are some important things you need to remember:
Check Your Owner’s Manual
Before making any purchase for your vehicle, be it accessories or major parts, it’s always best to consult your owner's manual first before making your decision. Some vehicle manufacturers advise against changing seat covers, as doing so could potentially damage the warming system. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the longevity and safety of your heated seats.
Avoid Heat-Trapping Materials
When choosing seat covers for your heat seats, avoid heat-trapping materials as well as against placing anything on the seat that could trap heat like cushions or blankets. This is to prevent overheating and maintain the optimal functioning of your heated seats.
Choose Seat Covers Designed For Heated Seats
Once you've determined that your chosen seat cover in your specific car is safe, it's recommended to choose a set of covers specifically designed for heated seats. Ideal seat covers material for heated seats are breathable and heat-resistant materials to minimize the absorption of heat. By choosing the appropriate seat covers for heated seats, you can enjoy warmth and comfort whilst ensuring that the heat is evenly distributed across the seat surface.
Ensure Safe Airbag Deployment
Another safety consideration to remember is that the seat covers don’t get in the way of the airbag in the even of an accident. Look for custom seat covers that are designed to work seamlessly with your car’s airbag system to maintain safety standards.
Using seat covers on heated seats can be a convenient way to protect and customise your car's interior. Just make sure that your specific vehicle allows for the use of seat covers and that you select covers designed for heated seats. Looking for car seat covers for heated seats? MyCustomCar has over 40 different fabric/colour options to choose from and a library of more than 4000 patterns. We make it easy to select the right vehicle, the fabric that best suits your needs and deliver to your door! Contact us today and we’ll be more than happy to help you!
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map pockets
PRECISION TAILORED SEAT COVERS
Increase storage with rear map pockets sewn into the back section of bucket seat covers.
latches
PRECISION TAILORED SEAT COVERS
Keep full functionality of your seats latches and levers so you can use your seats the way the manufacture intended.
armrests
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Rear seat armrests and drink holders allowances are configured into 99% of our patterns to allow full functionality of your seats.
isofix
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Isofix points are discreetly incorporated into our patterns so if you need to use them the points can be easily accessed.
child seat fixing
PRECISION TAILORED SEAT COVERS
Child seat fixing points or child restraint anchorages are made accessible when the seat cover pattern is created so you always have easy access to these points.
airbags
PRECISION TAILORED SEAT COVERS
Integrated Side Airbags Supplemental Restraint System All seat covers manufactured include a breakaway seam that has been tested in a NATA approved laboratory. Always read the fitting instructions supplied.
split folds
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Use your seats as they were intended to be used, 60/40, 50/50, 40/20/40 split, no worries! Our covers are designed and made to allow full use of your split folds.
Seatbelt Holes
PRECISION TAILORED SEAT COVERS
Our seat covers are cut precisely to ensure your seatbelt holes are in the correct location, no need to get out the Stanley knife and cut a slot for seat belt holes when you purchase great quality custom made vehicle-specific seat covers.