What to look for in a heat press?
Consistent heat across the top platen
This is probably the most important feature to look for when buying a heat press. If you do not have even heat across the top platen, you will struggle to fuse your garment. With inconsistent heat your vinyl or graphics are in danger of being under or overpressed.
Warranty
A good way to measure the longevity of a potential heat press is too look at its warranty. Most manufacturers should offer you at least a 30 year warranty on the heating element of the press. This way you are guaranteed a press that can handle anything. From all day use through to occasional pressing, and will stand the test of time.
Multiple heat settings
Not all heat press materials have the same finish. 10°C could make all the difference to a successful press, depending on the type of vinyl or graphic finish you are using. Make sure you can set an exact temperature on your press. .
Variable pressure
One of the most common mistakes made by first time users is to get the pressure of the press wrong. If you are pressing a t-shirt, a hoody or any other garment, they all require different pressures. Look for a press that will allow you to adjust the pressure of the top platen. Hotronix leads the way with pressure, having patented over-centre adjustment on presses.
Accuracy
One way of guaranteeing this is to get a press with a threadable bottom platen. This will allow you to get more of the garment over the lower platen. Giving you a more consistent and accurate surface area to press onto.
Staff considerations
When choosing a press, make sure you consider how it will be operated. If the press is running all day or even longer, you need to think about how the opening and closing of a press affects your team. For a press operated for prolonged periods of time, an auto-open press or an air assisted press is recommended. These styles ensure the physical impact of all-day pressing is minimal.
