Welding Helmet FAQ - 7 Most Asked Questions Answered

For Antra helmets with a test button, press the button under enough ambient lights—if it darkens, the helmet is working properly. You can also refer to our guide on Testing Your Helmet Without Welding for additional testing methods. If your helmet has been stored for a long time, make sure to replace the batteries and test it before working.

Tips: ALWAYS do the first testing strike without staring at the arc, to be 100% sure your welding helmet is functioning properly.

This is one of the most common misconceptions. Most welding helmets on the market—including most of our models—are not rechargeable. They use solar-assisted power systems, meaning the solar cell helps extend battery life but does not recharge the helmet. If the batteries are low you have to replace them.

Exception: Our 2X4 Lens D1-LE and single shade models (AF-10, AF11) are truly solar-sustained and can be charged from both solar and workshop lights.

For most helmets, the solar cell supplements the replaceable battery rather than replacing it entirely.

No, most of our welding helmets feature very low power consumption and automatic power management.

Here's how it works:

• Auto power-off: The helmet powers itself off when it doesn't detect ambient light for a period of time (dark environment)
• Standby mode: Most power comes from the solar cell, so battery drain is negligible
• DP9 model: Offers the most flexibility with manual OFF, manual ON, auto OFF, and auto ON features to fit different customer requirements

You can simply store your helmet after use without worrying about draining the battery.

Not necessarily, it depends on the model. This varies based on sensor design and intended use:

• Outdoor performance models: Some helmets are specifically designed for better outdoor performance and are less sensitive to sunlight, and are calibrated for arc flash detection and may not respond to sunlight (sunlight is not the same as arc flash)
• Standard models: Other helmets are responsive to direct / strong sunlight
• Sensitivity varies: Some models are more sensitive to the sun than others

Press the TEST button, or strike a small test arc without staring to verify if the helmet is functioning or not. Do not rely on sunlight to test your welding helmets.

It depends on models, applications and the environment you are using. Most of our helmets have hundreds or 1000+ welding hours of battery life.

Shorter battery life: Lots of tacking activities, low ambient light environments, small amp, TIG

Longer battery life: Outdoor applications, MIG/STICK, large amperage

Models with larger solar panels will have slightly longer life.

Tips: Check battery status every 1-2 months. The best way is to use a volt meter. If it is close to or below 2.9V, it needs to be replaced. Digital Pro Series helmets have a low battery indicator, and the icon will be visible when the battery is low.

NO, not even for a minute! The importance of the external lens cover is the most neglected thing for users. Why it is so important:

• It keeps the spatters and particles away to avoid the critical UV passive layer being permanently damaged, which is a serious safety issue
• It keeps some heat away from the auto lens
• It prolongs the service life and the clarity of the lens

Warning: Safety will be compromised, and your eyes will be DAMAGED PERMANENTLY if an auto darkening lens with damaged UV filter is used.

Warranty will be voided if the helmet is used without the OE external lens installed.

Antra helmets have continuous parts and accessories supply for all models we produced.

Visit our parts collection to get the exact fit parts you need.