INSTRUCTIONS - Electric Foil Heat Mat

Information & Instructions

Electric Foil Heat Mat

Information

These Foil Heat Mats are used by commercial growers or smaller hobbyists for successful plant propagation. The mats are used for plant propagation for consistent control of root temperature whilst maintaining a micro-climate above the bed. The watt density is designed so that even on very cold nights, the mat will keep the young plants at the desired temperature to allow for strong and consistent growth. The heat will spread evenly and consistently across the whole mat, with no cold spots. The mats can also be used for other purposes where gentle, consistent heat is required.

How Heat Foil Mats Work:

An internal electric element produces gentle bottom heat and the aluminium foil top layer allows the heat to spread evenly along the mat. Heat from the internal element rises and heat is transferred into the soil mix the pots/tray. This encourages vigorous plant growth by consistently warming the roots and also creating a warm, humid micro climate around the plants.

Specifications:

• Materials: Laminated electrical heating element between heavy aluminium foil & poly backing
• Widths available: from 0.3m up to 1.2m. Lengths available from 1.0 up to 12.0m.
• Voltage: 240 Volt. Watts: Approximately 150 watts per square metre
• Power usage: Average estimate 60 watts per square metre when set at 23oC and installed correctly according to our instructions. This usage is a guide only and will vary according to the ambient conditions
• Factory fitted Thermostat Controller in a weather resistance enclosure. Dial (analogue) or Digital available.
• Lead length: 2m from power socket to thermostat and 2m from thermostat to foil (other lengths available on request)

[Image: A photograph showing a digital thermostat controller mounted on a wall or frame, with wires leading to a heat mat setup.]

The Benefits:

• Safe to use, ready to install, no electrician required, no specialist knowledge required.
• Faster, healthier & more consistent seed/cutting germination
• Low operating cost
• Made in Australia to Australian Safety Standards

Thermostats:

• A thermostat must be used to control the heat of the mat. The thermostat ensures safe and accurate operating of your mat—you set the temperature to suit your plant’s needs.
• Choice of Dial or Digital type—both in a weather resistant enclosure

Instructions:

1. For optimum success with plant growth, choose a well protected area away from extreme weather conditions.
2. Using a flat bench, firstly place the thermal insulation foam (available for purchase). Do not use the heating foil in or on the ground.
3. Carefully roll out the mat (silver side up) onto your bench, taking care not to kink or bend the foil.
4. Drape the covering plastic (at least 200micron thickness) over the entire surface of the foil and allow enough to drape completely over the sides of the mat. This protects the foil from damage and allows water to run off effectively. Replace plastic when it is worn or is damaged in any way. (Solashield is available for purchase). Do not allow the mat to get wet or sit in water.
5. The thermostat should be placed in a suitable place near the mat. Carefully unwind the probe wire taking care not to overstretch, twist or bend it. The probe sensor which is at the end of the probe wire senses the temperature. The sensor probe must be secured/taped onto the foil mat underneath the plastic film, then place the pots or trays on top plastic film and on top of where the probe is positioned. Do not allow the sensor probe to hang freely in the air as this will overheat the foil. Do not allow the probe or probe wire to be moved or dislodged from its position constantly or damage may occur to the probe.
6. Plug the mat into a power socket and turn on, then select the temperature on the thermostat. The Digital thermostat is pre set at 23oC – no need to set any of the function settings as these already pre set. For the Dial thermostat just select the temperature on the dial. Allow the bed to stabilise after initial switch on - this may take up to 8 hours.
7. We recommend to have a safety switch fitted to the circuit.

Care:

• The mat will last for many years if installed as per our instructions and handled & cared for correctly
• To prevent water from penetrating into the mat, use solashield as a barrier over the top and down all sides of the foil mat. Make sure the covering film drapes over the sides like a tablecloth to ensure water doesn't touch the heat mat
• Do not cut, bend, kink or alter the foil. If the foil is damaged in any way do not continue to use it
• Don't use polystyrene boxes or any insulating material on top of the foil as this acts as an insulator
• Do not roll the mat up and down to store as this bending will result in cracks in the aluminium and cause water ingress.

Warranty:

• For warranty repair return to the retailer within 1 year of purchase, with your proof of purchase.
• The manufacturer takes no responsibility for this product if the above conditions and instructions are not met.

[Logo: Australian Made and Owned]