Because baseboard heaters are outdated systems, you may need to hire heating repair services more often just to ensure they are in good working order. In contrast, more modern HVAC systems won't require as much maintenance, and they can efficiently heat your entire house through ducts and vents.
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.
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.
Efficiency – While they are the least expensive of fixed electric heaters, baseboard and wall heaters are very inefficient compared to radiant ceiling panels. Based on several studies, radiant ceiling heaters are 35% more efficient than wall heaters and 50% more efficient than baseboards.
The best route is to hire a licensed electrician or HVAC technician to handle the install for you.
Consider replacing baseboard heaters if: Your heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Your system starts needing frequent repairs. The repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a replacement.
Inefficient and expensive. Electric furnaces and baseboard heaters are more efficient than radiators and gas heating, but both are much less efficient than heat pumps. The placement of baseboard heaters — near windows and exterior walls — makes them even more inefficient.
Wall furnaces are one of the top alternatives to electric baseboard heating. These are smaller heating systems set up in the wall. A wall furnace's primary energy source is electricity. Wall furnaces are pretty reliable and tend to work faster.
Removing baseboard heating is pretty affordable, mostly because it doesn't require any specialty supplies or expensive tools. Booking a professional to pull out an old baseboard heating unit will usually cost between $120 and $150.
Today baseboard heaters are much more efficient than their older counterparts, and when used as a secondary heating source, or even as the primary, the results are drastically different from 20 years ago.
Generally speaking, electric baseboard heaters are safe when installed correctly and kept far away from any flammable materials. Exercise caution if you have children or pets in a home with electric baseboard heat. These become much hotter to the touch than hydronic and burns can result.
Is baseboard heating expensive? 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.
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.
While electric baseboard heaters are known for their resilience and require minimal maintenance, they aren't invincible and may eventually need replacement. Typically, a well-maintained baseboard heater lasts 15-20 years before decline.
Electric baseboard heaters are generally more energy-efficient for long-term use because they convert nearly all the electricity they use into heat and can be controlled to heat specific areas. Space heaters can consume more electricity, especially when used for prolonged periods.
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.
Replacing baseboard heaters with forced air is common for many homeowners because forced air systems are much more efficient and save your bank account over time. Before making the switch, you'll need to prepare for a few things.
Ductless heat pump systems offer precise temperature control. Small and sleek, they don't detract from your home décor. They provide more comfortable heating, with less of the dryness and irritation caused by electric baseboard produced heat, so that you can breathe easier.
This is likely where the common misconception that heaters must be installed under a window comes from. While it's often a good practice, it isn't a requirement.
If the thermostat doesn't work or leaves the baseboard heater on, it's likely developed loose wiring contacts.
What Are Their Cons? Baseboard heaters may not be the best option for living rooms, open floor spaces and other large areas. It's because the warm air they produce only slightly rises before dissipating into the room's atmosphere.
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.