Baseboard Heaters & Electricity

Background Information

• Baseboard electric heaters are zonal, meaning each heater is controlled by a thermostat to heat the room it is installed in. They produce heat when the electric heating elements, which are enclosed in pipes, heat the air around them. The warm air then rises into the room to heat it.

Types and Voltage

• Electric baseboard heaters vary in size and voltage. For example, a 500-watt heater will heat a 50-square-foot room. A 1,500 watt heater will heat a 150-square-foot room. Consult an electrician if you plan to run your electric baseboard heater on a circuit with additional appliances.

Installation

• Electric baseboard heaters are generally installed under a window so they can counteract any cool air that might leak in from the window. They should sit three-quarters of an inch above the flooring so air can flow underneath and should fit tightly to the wall so warm air does not collect behind it.

Tips

• When choosing an electric baseboard heater, read reviews and compare warranties to ensure you purchase a quality unit. Clean your electric baseboard heater regularly to remove dirt and lint. Keep curtains, furniture and other items away from the bottom of the heater where the air intake is located.