How to Test the Components of a Baseboard Heater

Many older homes came equipped with a baseboard heating system. The heating vents in these systems are located along the bottom of the wall, where it meets the floor. These heating systems can still be found in homes today, because their low placement allows heat to rise evenly throughout a room. If you think your baseboard heater isn't functioning properly, you can check its components with a multimeter.

Flat-head screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the main breaker panel in your home. Flip the breaker switch that controls the heater circuit to the "Off" position.
- 2
  Use the tip of your flat-head screwdriver to pop the cover off of your home thermostat.
- 3
  Locate the wiring in the thermostat. Turn on your multimeter and touch the positive lead to one of the wiring terminals. Touch the negative lead to the wall or another non-electric area. The multimeter should produce a reading of continuity. If it doesn't, the wiring terminal is affected.
- 4
  Test the remaining terminals in the thermostat for continuity.
- 5
  Pull the end caps off of your baseboard heater and pop the cover off of the heater.
- 6
  Touch the positive multimeter lead to the terminals inside the heater. Touch the negative wire to the floor or wall to ground it. Test all the terminals for continuity. If you find that some terminals are dead you will need to call a technician to service the heater.
- 7
  Replace the heater cover and end caps.

How to Replace an Oven Top for a Maytag Gemini Range Oven

How to Replace the Inner Glass of an Oven Door on a Frigidaire Crown

Other Home Appliances