Andy Hinds at AllMusic considered Second Heat superior to its predecessor and described it as having "some of the most amazing dual-guitar work ever recorded" thanks to the addition of second guitarist Bruce Bouillet in accompaniment with Gilbert. The rhythm section of drummer Scott Travis and bassist John Alderete was also praised as being "one of the most formidable around."
Andy Hinds, a music critic at AllMusic, considered Second Heat to be an improvement over its predecessor and highlighted the exceptional dual-guitar work created by the addition of Bruce Bouillet alongside Gilbert. The rhythm section, consisting of drummer Scott Travis and bassist John Alderete, was also lauded for its strength.