Today baseboard heaters are much more efficient than their older counterparts, and when used as a secondary
Newer and more expensive baseboards may have better controls, durability and cosmetics/design; they may also use different materials for the heating coil. Safety standards also improve over time so relative age a factor.
Are Baseboard Heaters Efficient? Baseboard heating is, at its core, a very efficient type of heating. Close to 100% of the current transmitted to the heater is transformed into heat.
Because technology wasn't as advanced in the late 20th century, the electric radiators that were installed back then tend to be less efficient and consume a lot of energy. This not only creates high energy bills but is also at odds with our goals for a more sustainable future.
In general, electric baseboard heaters use more electricity than an electric heat pump. This means higher electric bills, especially in the coldest winter months when they're working overtime to keep your home warm. The placement of baseboard heaters — near windows and exterior walls — can also work against you.
Hydronic baseboard heaters radiate heat heated water and are the most efficient form of heating and costs significantly less than electric. Electric heaters, generate and maintain their temperature through electricity.
How often should baseboard heaters be replaced? Baseboard heaters typically last 15-20 years. Replace them if they're inefficient, damaged, or failing to heat effectively. The covers can be replaced as often as desired.
Modern electric radiators are 100% efficient at the point of consumer use. Whereas even the most efficient “A” rated gas boiler can still only provide around 96% efficiency, which means you are paying for and wasting at least 4% of heating.
Many baseboard heating systems are a form of electric heat that operates without ductwork and can be expensive to run. Baseboard heating is often more efficient than radiators, and they are even more efficient when they are run constantly, instead of being turned on and off.
Old heating systems release their gases from vertical vents that extend out from the roof. New, more efficient furnaces use more of the heat from the gas they consume. This means that they require a different venting process, one that involves the use of PVC pipes that extend out from the side of the home.
Myth #2: Bigger is Better.
The rule of thumb for sizing a baseboard, or any electric heater, was 10 watts per square foot. So if you have a 10 x 10 room you would need a 1,000 watt heater.
Electric baseboard heaters have an on-and-off switch, but you can leave them running at a regular temperature setting.
Ductless heat pumps/mini split systems are one of the top alternatives to baseboard heaters if you're looking for the energy efficiency of electric heat but want to avoid the drawbacks listed above. A ductless mini split provides all the benefits of zoned climate control, and doesn't require ductwork.
Beyond that, new baseboards have model variants that effectively heat better than traditional resistance baseboards. For example, convector baseboards direct air up rather than out so there is less chance of obstruction blocking heat.
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to baseboard heating that can provide comfortable and even heating throughout your home. Forced air heating, radiant heating, heat pumps, and electric space heaters are just a few of the many alternatives available to homeowners.
The life expectancy of hot water baseboard heaters is about 20 years, however, with care they can last much longer. That's why you see them in older homes so often. But age doesn't mean they are defunct. The technology hasn't changed that much and there's a reason for that: it works.
Our top pick for baseboard heaters, the Cadet F Series 48-inch Electric Baseboard Heater, has a simple design, slim profile, and quiet operation, making it an inconspicuous addition to any room.
Baseboard heaters require careful consideration to ensure they function efficiently and safely: Maintain Clearance: Keep furniture at least 6 inches away from baseboard heaters. This prevents the blockage of heat and reduces fire risk.
These older systems need to draw lots of electricity for many hours to provide effective heating. Not only this, but you also need one for each room you want to heat, as well as a way to heat your water separately. This makes legacy electric heating systems very inefficient.
So, after looking at the different types of electric heaters available, due to its lower power-output, halogen heaters are the cheapest electric heaters to run.
Even if you enjoy your baseboard heaters, you should still consider talking to an HVAC specialist about upgrading to a more modern heating and cooling system. An HVAC system will not only provide you with a reliable heating and cooling system but also give your home a modern upgrade you can appreciate.
There's no doubt, replacing older baseboard heaters can also lower your energy consumption. The “fins” inside older heaters usually become caked in dust (and pet hair) which reduces the heater's efficiency. New baseboard heaters such as Stelpro or Ouellet can look great and lower energy costs.
Many baseboard heater issues stem from a faulty heating element or thermostat. Dust, debris, and other items crowding the heater can be a fire hazard and reduce the heater's efficiency. Regular baseboard heater maintenance helps prevent common issues.