Is this heating pad safe?

[MTem]

Noticed today my electric heating pad is making occasional, light buzzing sounds, from a spot in the pad.
Now I just happened to have it near my ear today, so I'm not sure if this is part of its normal function I just haven't noticed for the last fifteen years, or if it indicates a wiring problem, and there is finally something gone wrong with it.
Any ideas?
Thanks!
M

 

[Minder]

Doesn't sound good!
probably a high resistance point developing.
M.

 

[Sunnysky]

is there a lump there? perhaps a ceramic sensor temp that is has a piezo response

 

[Tha fios agaibh]

I agree, probably just a thermostat that makes a slight arcing sound when it cycles on/off.

Probably fine because they are hermetically sealed.
But for peace of mind, I'd replace it due to its age. Plus it's an inexpensive item.

 

[shrtrnd]

My vote is to replace it.
I've had two of those things start on fire on me, and they weren't 15 years old!
I can't argue with the guys who say there's probably nothing wrong with it, but
I don't imagine your hearing has improved over the last 15 years, and it's not
worth burning your house down to find-out your heating pad has seen better days.