Electrician, Cook Electric
Written by Larry Cook

Benefits of Electric Baseboard Heaters for Homes – Part 1

Homeowners who are using only a central heating system during the colder months will usually have higher utility bills. Using supplemental heating is a way to lower costs. One type that should be strongly considered is the electric baseboard heater.

Overview

Electric baseboard heaters are positioned on a floor or a little above. Designed to radiate warmth in a specific room, baseboard heaters allow you to significantly lower the temperature setting of the central heating system, decreasing energy consumption and saving money. The two main types are convection and hydronic.

Common Features

Convection and hydronic baseboard heaters both radiate heat gently and gradually and are controlled by a thermostat. They look similar, and their options for voltage will either be 120V or 240V. Higher voltage heaters will generate more heat and are more efficient. The great majority of baseboard heaters are designed to be directly wired and should be installed by a professional electrician. Both will take about 30 minutes to radiate heat and warm an average-sized room to the desired temperature. Both types are quiet and do not blow air that carries unhealthy dust, particles, and pollutants.

Convection

Convection heaters function by using a heating element, which are electric coils that warm up just like those within a toaster. The heaters are not expensive, costing usually less than $100. Their simple design allows them to be reliable over several decades. One drawback is convection heaters will cool off rapidly once they are turned off.

Hydronic

Rather than heating air, hydronic heaters warm water or oil sealed within their systems, and the liquid then heats the surrounding air. The heated liquid will stay warmer for an extended period of time after a hydronic heater is turned off. However, hydronics are up to four times more expensive and offer less size options than convection heaters. Although more energy efficient, a hydronic will be slower to heat up a room than a convection type.

Part 2 will cover the overall benefits of electric baseboard heaters.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.