Frequently Asked Questions
About Psolar Facemasks and Balaclavas
• How does Psolar work?
• How is Psolar cleaned?
• What is the significance of the name PSOLAR?
• Is this new technology patented?
• I have asthma (or other health condition) and cold air is not good for me.
• I've seen other "Heat Exchange" face masks. Why is Psolar better?
• Does Psolar require batteries?
• Does the facemask get wet and gooey and icy?
• Is the desiccant safe?
• Does this mask fog your ski goggles?
• Does this mask fog your glasses?
How does Psolar work?
The Psolar series contains a lightweight thermal conversion module that captures the vapor that is typically expended in the normal course of breathing. The module actually captures warmth when you exhale. As you inhale the cold air, the module gently warms the air returning heat into your body. This advanced technology allows you to constantly breath in fresh warm air while trapping moisture to keep your mask drier. Psolar keeps your core body temperature warm when you're facing extremely frigid outdoor elements.
How is Psolar cleaned?
The entire assembly can be machine washed in cold water and line dried.
The module can be washed hundreds of times without deterioration, or harm.
The fabric mask can be machine washed in cold water and line dried. We recommend washing the fabric in cold water to increase the longevity of the fleece.
What is the significance of the name PSOLAR?
The word POLAR has a connotation of cold. Insert the letter "S" and the "P" becomes silent. The word pronunciation becomes "SOLAR" with a warm connotation. The "S," like the heat exchanger, changes cold to warm.
Is this new technology patented?
There is a patent and a patent pending for this product.
I have asthma (or other health condition) and cold air is not good for me. Is this a treatment?
This is not FDA certified as a medical device. This is a cold weather product designed to keep you warm and comfortable just like gloves, hats and jackets. This device heats the air you inhale. If breathing warm air could be beneficial for your condition, consult your physician.
I've seen other "Heat Exchange" face masks. Why is Psolar better?
Personal Respiratory Heat Exchange (PHRE) devices have been around since the 1800's. The first patent was in 1898. Since that time the evolution of the technology has been to make them simpler and more affordable. Psolar utilizes a simple lightweight and affordable PHRE. Psolar offers the following advantages:
- Price - Psolar is priced competitively with standard face masks and can be less than half the price of other PHRE face masks.
- Quality - Psolar is made of the finest Polartec® materials. The QXtec heat exchanger is made with the highest standards and is thoroughly tested The entire assembly is durable and machine washable.
- Breathability - There is little resistance to breathing, allowing use while exercising or sleeping.
- Acoustics - Your friends can hear and understand you.
- Guarantee - If you are not satisfied with the quality or performance, return it for a full refund.
Does Psolar require batteries?
No! The heat is captured from your exhaled breath. This heat is normally wasted.
Does the facemask get wet and gooey and icy?
No. The module captures the water vapor and returns it to the air you breathe. The moisture management is handled by the heat exchanger - not the fleece. Breathing humidified air puts less stress on your body.
Is the desiccant safe?
Yes! The desiccant is bonded to the plastic and is not inhaled. The desiccant is used in baby powder and it is also used to thicken milkshakes.
Does this mask fog your ski goggles?
No. When goggles are worn over the portion covering the cheeks, the goggles do not fog.
Does this mask fog your glasses?
Not if you use the Vapor Shield accessory.