Best Electric Baseboard Heaters 2017

Electric baseboard heaters are a low profile attractive heating option

Are you ready for the winter? With winter come the ice storms, polar vortexes, and all that is freezing cold. It may be time to evaluate your heating system to see if it can stand up to the winter, while not costing you an arm and a leg. Energy conservation is playing a big role in the way heating systems are designed, and even if you already have a system, it may be worthwhile to explore your options.

Electric baseboard heaters are one option to consider. An electric baseboard heating system can act as a great supplement to a central heating system, or can even be used in place of a central system. It is cost effective when used wisely since you can focus the energy used to heat on the primary living areas rather than an entire home.

In this article we give you the chance to quickly and easily judge which electric baseboard heaters is for you from our comprehensive list of the best electric baseboard heaters.

Are Electric Baseboard Heaters Right For Me?

In older homes where duct-work is not possible, or would be extremely expensive, lower voltage electric baseboards can be an excellent option for a heating system. Modern baseboard heaters come in a wide variety of sizes, so they can be used to put a little extra heat in smaller spaces while running the central system on a low setting. With the wide range of designs that are on the market, most of us can find a heater to suit their needs.

It is important to recognize that electric baseboard heaters may not be the best option for everyone. Depending on the size of your home, what sort of insulation you have, and your energy budget, baseboard heaters may not be suited for you. In cold climates, it can be very expensive to rely solely on baseboard heaters. This type of application is recommended in warmer climates where the winters are not very cold, or in smaller homes and apartments.

Challenges to Buying the Best Electric Baseboard Heaters: So Many Options!

​While it is wonderful to have a wide selection of electric baseboard heaters on the market, one downside to this is that it can be difficult to determine which is best for you. There are different sizes and voltages to take under consideration. Naturally, smaller units with lower voltages are appropriate for smaller spaces and larger, more powerful units are intended for larger rooms.

Selection of electric baseboard heater manufacturer logos

​One of the biggest challenges to finding the best heating system is understanding your home’s design and electrical capabilities. It isn’t as simple as just installing the unit, you need to be aware of whether your electrical circuitry can handle higher voltages. Many homes are equipped to handle 120 voltage wiring, and will probably require additional electrical work. It is best to consult an electrician when encountering a situation like this, as improperly installed electrical wiring is very dangerous.

​Since there are so many options and variables to consider, this guide has been designed to highlight which features to look for while choosing your heating system. Only the best electric baseboard heaters have been reviewed for this guide, and a breakdown of each unit is listed. Along with descriptions and product specifications, these heating units are presented in a side-by-side comparison so you can determine which model would best suit your needs.

​How do Electric Baseboard Heaters Work?

​In electric baseboard heaters, air his heated by way of passive convection. An electrical current flows through a heating element encased by the unit. The air inside the unit is them heated, and rises out of the heater. This allows the heater to run without a fan for quiet operation. It is typically recommended that the unit is installed on the coldest wall of the room, as this facilitates the process of convection. Cold air falls into the unit, passively forcing the heated air up and into the room.

Electric baseboard heaters are controlled by thermostats that turn the unit on when the ambient air drops below a specified temperature. Depending on the model, the thermostats are built into the unit of must be installed separately.

Most electric baseboard heaters are hard-wired, meaning that they are directly connected to the home’s electrical circuitry. It is best to consult an electrician for this type of installation for safety purposed and to make sure your home is electrically equipped to handle the new heaters. Portable, plug-in versions of baseboard heaters are available. While portable heaters are convenient in that they do not require installation, they are no suitable for everyone especially those with small children.

Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Buying Guide​

​Types of Electric Baseboard Heaters

​Hardwired

​These heaters are connected directly to the home’s electric circuitry and are mounted to a wall, usually below a window. This placement is recommended because cold air that drafts in from the window falls down into the unit, is heated by the element, and rises into the room. The placement is convenient since it uses a minimum amount of space and most designs are simple enough to complement any home. It is advisable to have an electrician install hardwired units, as it can be dangerous for the inexperienced handyman.

​Portable

​The portable version of electric baseboard heater uses the same type of technology in that air is heated by convection. Portable heaters may be more convenient for those who live in milder climates and have no need for a permanent installation. The downside to portable heaters is that they can pose a trip hazard if they are placed in a high traffic area.

​Metal Coil versus Ceramic Core

​Traditionally, electric baseboard heaters have been constructed with metal heating elements. This is perfectly functional and durable, but some newer models have been designed with ceramic heating cores. It is thought that ceramic heats up more evenly and retains heat longer than traditional metal cores, so ultimately less energy is used. Both options work well-this is a matter of personal preference.

Key ​Features

​Energy Efficient

​Electric baseboards can provide an energy efficient heating system if used wisely. They are best used for supplemental heat, with a central system on a lower setting, or in specific living areas where a central heating system is not needed. Different sizes and voltages are available for customized installation in different room sizes.

​Good for Older Homes

Adding ducting is not always easy, practical or cheap

​If your home pre-dates air-con and home furnaces it may not be practical to retro-fit ducting. It is possible as this article demonstrates, but it may not be straightforward

For older homes where installation of ducting is impossible, electric baseboards are an excellent option. Lower voltage heaters are available for easy installation in older homes; otherwise, additional wiring can be installed in order to accommodate the more powerful 240-volt heaters. It is best to consult an electrician when installing a baseboard heater in an older home because of these possible complications. Also, an electrician can make sure the wiring in your home is still safe.

​Customized Climate Control - Inexpensive Zoned Heating

You can create your own heating zones with electric baseboard heaters

​Since these are localized heating units, they are great solutions for those living in mild climates without harsh winters. Electric baseboard heaters can eliminate the need for a central heating system in a milder zone.

​For those living in colder climates, individual heaters can be used to draw electricity to where you need it, with a central system running on a lower setting. Because these heaters are installed in individual rooms, you can according to individual preferences. This makes everyone happy since they can control the temperature in their own room!

​Easy to Install

​For those who don’t have a lot of experience with electrical work, it is recommended that an electrician is employed for the install. Most models are prepared for installation, and just need to be wired to the circuitry and mounted to the wall.

​It is best to consult an electrician because electrical work can be dangerous for the inexperienced. A professional will be able to determine if your electrical system already has the appropriate wiring for the unit. This is especially important in older homes, which are typically wired for lower voltage.

​Benefits of Baseboard Heaters

Cheap to Install

Most electric baseboard heaters are ready for installation, and only need tools to mount the unit. Hardware should be included with the heater. Of course, there will be cost involved if using an electrician for the install, but your safety is priceless! If a thermostat has to be purchased separately, chances are it needs to be wall mounted and this requires a little extra work.

​With portable electric baseboard heaters, there is no installation cost! Simply plug into an outlet and heat the area. While these are convenient, it is essential to take care when deciding where to place the heater. Because they are not mounted, portable heaters can pose trip hazards, and like all heaters, they should have a good clearance away from flammable materials.

​Safer than Space Heaters

​Space heaters are notorious for being unsafe. The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that 32% of home fires are caused by space heaters, along with 79% of home fire fatalities. While most of these fires are caused by improper use of space heaters, the fact that they are portable and not mounted away from foot traffic make them more susceptible to damage.

​Electric baseboard heaters are mounted away from foot traffic and are stationary. They cannot get knocked over, and do not have fans that can short out. The heating elements in electric baseboard heaters are either crushproof or protected by metal sheathing for additional safety. As long as they are installed correctly, and within the appropriate clearance of flammable obstacles, electric baseboard heaters are a safe option.

​No Restrictions to Installing in Bedrooms

​Electric baseboard heaters are safe for bedrooms, including a child’s bedroom or nursery. These units do not get hot to the touch, the heating element is contained within the unit, and its stationary position helps prevent dangerous accidents.

Of course, the case is different with portable baseboard heaters. While portable versions of this type of heater do not get hot to the touch, they can pose a trip hazard. This should be taken into consideration when heating a child’s bedroom or a high-traffic area.

Drawbacks to Baseboards Heaters​

Thermostats are Sold Separately in Most Cases

Unfortunately, most electric baseboard heaters do not include the necessary thermostat. While they are inexpensive, the thermostats do have to be purchased separately. Depending on the heating unit, the thermostat can be wall mounted or installed directly onto the heater. This should be taken into account when planning installation, as wall mounted thermostats need to be hardwired separately.

This is not the case with portable baseboard heaters, as most of these models have thermostats built in. A common complaint about the thermostats found in portable heaters is that they don’t maintain an accurate temperature. This can be a hassle if you are unable to supervise the heater.

Special Wiring has to be Installed Sometimes

In some houses, older homes, in particular, the electrical wiring cannot support the more powerful baseboard heaters that are on the market. This can be a hassle if you need a powerful heater because you live in a cold climate, or in an older home that cannot support ductwork for a central heating system. The wiring requirements should be taken into consideration when choosing the units and while planning installation.

Works Best in Well-Insulated Rooms

Because heat rises, a poorly insulated structure will not be able to contain the heated air. This will cause a higher expenditure of energy and will be expensive in the end. If you’re considering installing a system of electric baseboard heaters, it’s best to evaluate whether your home has adequate insulation first. No matter which type of heating system you decide to go with, upgrading your insulation can save a lot of energy and money over time.

Installation

​If you decide to go with an electric baseboard heating system, it is best to consult an electrician if you do not have a lot of experience with electrical work. There are wiring requirements to be aware of, and some of the powerful heaters use a voltage that can be dangerous to work with. You also need to make sure that there are enough circuit spaces in the service panel to accommodate your heaters-220 volt circuits require to breakers.

Here's a great video by a quality electric baseboard manufacturer giving instructions on a simple installation.​

Be careful while planning your thermostat positioning, since positioning it near the heating unit may result in an inaccurately high temperature reading. It is typically recommended that the heater is placed on the coldest wall in the room, and low to the ground since heat rises.

Be sure to avoid installing the unit near electrical outlets, as this poses a fire hazard. Follow all recommendations at to clearance, as obstacles like furniture and drapery can be dangerous or block the air flow.

Maintenance

Keeping the fins free of dust and debris will increase the efficiency of your heaters

​Electric baseboard heaters are very easy to maintain. To keep your unit running efficiently, regularly clean the outside cover to remove dust, pet hair, and debris. Be sure to lower the thermostat before cleaning the fins. To access the heater fins, you must remove the front cover of the unit. Vacuum and thoroughly clean the baseboard heater fins using compressed air or pipe cleaners. Inspect the fins for any damage or bending. If fins bend during the cleaning process, carefully straighten them with fliers.

Make sure there is at least 12 inches of clearance between the unit and any curtains that hang above it. This ensures proper distribution of heated air and is important for fire safety. Keeping the unit clear of obstructions also helps to keep dust and debris away from the heater. While dust does not pose a safety issue, it can impact the efficiency of the heater.

During the warmer seasons when the heaters are not in use, it may be a good idea to get a cover specifically for baseboard heaters to prevent dust buildup throughout the year. The units should also be vacuumed before the cold season to remove any buildup. Also inspect the unit for any evidence of damaged wires or heating elements, as this can pose a fire hazard.

​Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Safety Tips

• ​Fire prevention: Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation as to how much clearance the unit requires. Typically, furniture needs to be at least 6 inches away from the unit and curtains should not hang in front of or on top of the heater.
• Be careful with children: Children love to hide toys and small things wherever they can, so make sure this does not happen since any foreign object in a heater presents a fire hazard
• Make sure the unit is installed correctly: Faulty wiring can cause a unit to overheat, installing a unit below an electrical outlet is a fire hazard.

Summing it Up

Electric baseboard heaters can be a convenient, economical way to heat your home. Whether used for supplemental heating in addition to a central system, or for selective heating, there are plenty of models on the market to suit everyone’s needs.

As we are becoming more conscious of energy consumption, it is important to think out of the box in terms of climate control for the home. It is well known that central heating and air systems use a tremendous amount of energy, and a supplemental system such as the electric baseboard unit allows for conservative use of the central heating system. For smaller spaces such as apartments or in warmer climates, it is possible to rely solely on electric baseboard heaters.

As with any heating system, planning is necessary as well as general knowledge of how your home is laid out. It is important to know which models are appropriate for your needs-room size, electrical capabilities, and safety concerns should all be taken into consideration when choosing an electrical baseboard heating system.

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