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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Solpods solution?

The solution is a food grade salt called sodium acetate.  It is non-toxic and is mixed with water and vinegar.  Sodium acetate is what is applied to salt vinegar potato chips.  The Solpod case is made from PVC rubber.

 

What does the metal clip inside the Solpod do?

 

The metal clip acts as the “heat generator” that causes the solution to crystallize and produce heat.

 

What is the heating process called?

 

The process is called “Super Cooling”, which is the opposite of actual freezing, the liquid becomes hot.  Pressing or bending the metal clip causes a slight temperature change within the pod.  When sodium acetate is in liquid form and at room temperature it crystallizes (quickly) when a change in temperature occurs. 

 

Is the Solpod safe to use?

 

Yes, unlike the majority of instant heat sources on the market that contain a toxic solution or substance, Solpods are completely safe. 

 

How long does the Solpod stay hot?

 

The Solpod can provide heat for approximately 30 minutes (4 inch pod) and approximately one hour (6 inch pod) depending on how you insulate it.  The non-toxic salt solution generates heat instantly to a set temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit and will slowly lose heat over time.

 

How do you activate the Solpod?

 

Hold the Solpod in one hand and locate the metal clip with the other.  Place the metal clip between your fingers and thumb and use a “clicking or pressing” action.  By clicking the metal clip, you are generating heat, which in turn causes the solution to crystallize.

 

How do you Re-activate the Solpod?

 

A teflon coated (non-stick) pot should be used!  If you do not use a nonstick surface, it is recommended that you place a thin cloth at the bottom of the pot to keep the pod from sticking and potentially transferring ink.

 

Watch this video! 

 

Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.  Slowly and safely (using tongs or something similar) place the Solpod(s) in the hot water.  Let the Solpod boil for approximately 8 to 10 minutes or until the solution inside the pod is completely liquefied.  After the 8 to 10 minutes, turn off the heat.  Leave pods in the pot for 35-40 minutes after boiling. 

Now remove the pods from the pot and place on a towel to dry and come back to room temperature.  If the Solpod is removed too quickly and there are crystallized particles still noticeable, the Solpod will quickly re-crystallize as the pod cools to room temperature. 

How many times can the Solpod be used and re-used?

 

Just as you can freeze and melt water over and over again, Solpods have been used and re-used hundreds of times.

 

Can the Solpod be re-activated in a microwave?

 

NO, the Solpod is not microwave or oven safe, heating in either will cause the metal clip to spark and possibly cause fire or damage to the appliances.

 

Can I freeze the Solpod?

 

NO, it is not recommended that you freeze.  This will take an extended amount of time to bring your pod to liquid form.

 

How should the Solpod be stored?

 

It is recommended that you store the Solpod in a liquid state at room temperature.  Solpods have been stored over a year without using and have been activated with ease.