Why are baseboard heaters always under a window?

Author: Richie O'Conner  |  Last update: Monday, August 4, 2025

The gist is that cold air from the window mixes with warm air rising out of the baseboard, that warm air moves around the room, cools and sinks back to the floor, where it is eventually re-heated by the baseboards. That's why traditionally it's recommended to install a baseboard under a window.

Why do they put baseboard heaters under windows?

Baseboard heaters are, as some have said, usually located under windows. This is done because the convective flow from the heater serves to keep the window clear of condensation. In a large open room spread the heaters around. And with high or vaulted ceilings consider either a ceiling fan or increasing the wattage.

Why are heaters usually underneath windows?

Because it's more efficient for them to be under windows it allows for the warm air to circulate better and keep condensation from building up on your windows.

Where is the best place to put baseboard heaters?

Here's a quick rundown of the best practices:

Fan heaters work best on an inside wall; baseboards are best under a window. (But you can install fan heaters on outside walls and baseboards on inside walls.) If you're installing a heater by a door, make sure the heater isn't blocked by the door when it is open.

Why are radiators always underneath windows?

Because it's more efficient for them to be under windows it allows for the warm air to circulate better and keep condensation from building up on your windows.

How To Permanently Fix Baseboards Cracks!

Why are heat registers always under windows?

Efficiency and Air Flow

Placing the heat vents beneath the windows is actually best for efficiency and proper airflow.

What height should a radiator be below a window?

If a radiator is to be installed under a window, the height of the radiator depends on the distance between the windowsill and the floor. The lower edge of the radiator should be placed at least 10 cm above the floor and the upper one at least 10 cm below the sill.

Is it cheaper to leave baseboard heaters on all the time?

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.

How do you maximize heat from a baseboard heater?

If you're the owner of a baseboard heater, try these tips for improving your baseboard heater's efficiency.
  1. Decrease Drafts. ...
  2. Adjust Your Thermostat. ...
  3. Clean Baseboard Heaters Regularly. ...
  4. Choose the Right Cover.

Can you put a couch against a baseboard heater?

Maintain Clearance: Keep furniture at least 6 inches away from baseboard heaters. This prevents the blockage of heat and reduces fire risk.

Should you put a heater under a window?

Putting a radiator under the window helps to avoid cold draughts at foot level which would cause discomfort and would also help to make the temperature more equal at all levels in the room, again avoiding discomfort. Situations do still exist where the heat can be needlessly wasted.

Can I put a sofa in front of a radiator?

Is It Okay To Put A Sofa In Front Of A Radiator? It is not recommended to place a sofa directly in front of a radiator.

Do radiators under windows cause condensation?

Yes, placing a radiator directly under a window can cause condensation to form on the glass, due to the temperature difference between the warm radiator and the cold window surface. As the radiator heats the air, it rises and comes into contact with the cooler window, causing the air to cool down rapidly.

What is the rule of thumb for baseboard heating?

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.

Can you put a baseboard heater under a window?

Chances are if you're upgrading from a baseboard, that heater was installed on an outside wall under a window. That's because when baseboards are installed under a window, they work with the natural flow of air inside a room to spread heat.

Do baseboard heaters use a lot of electricity?

If you rely mostly on electric baseboard heaters to heat your home, they probably make up a big part of your annual electricity bill – sometimes as much as 44%. However, there are plenty of ways to maximize the efficiency of your baseboard heaters to cut down your winter heating costs.

Do baseboard heaters run all the time?

The heated air naturally rises by passive convection without using a fan to warm the room. A wall-mounted or unit-attached thermostat controls the unit. Electric baseboard heaters have an on-and-off switch, but you can leave them running at a regular temperature setting.

How can I lower my electric bill with baseboard heat?

How to Bring Down Your Baseboard Heating Bill
  1. Keep Your Heater Clean. Allowing dust and grime to build up on your baseboard heater can begin to reduce its overall effectiveness. ...
  2. Turn Down the Temperature. ...
  3. Upgrade to a Hot Water Heater.

How many baseboard heaters can I put on one thermostat?

A 240-volt circuit running on a 20-amp, double-pole breaker, can have any combination of heaters up to 3,840 watts. For example, using just one thermostat, you can install: Two 1,500 watt heaters, or. Three 1,000 watt heaters, or.

What is the downside of baseboard heat?

Dangerous and uncomfortable

Electric baseboards get hot, which means you have to keep furniture and curtains at least six inches away from them to prevent fire. If you have young children in the house, they can also be a burn risk. The heat generated by baseboard heaters is a very dry heat.

Do baseboard heaters increase the electric bill?

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.

What is the life expectancy of a baseboard heater?

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.

Why put heaters under windows?

This is because the heat in the room is easily lost through the thin glass which creates a cold area close to the window surface. By placing a radiator directly underneath the window, hot air is produced and released, which then rises to hit the cold air from the window.

Where does the radiator go in Dusty Trip?

Put the radiator just ahead of the engine. (The Radiator is located at the table.)

What is the minimum gap between radiator and window sill?

We recommend however that nothing is positioned above the radiator and that 100mm below should be left clear so heat from the radiator can be effectively distributed. A windowsill or shelf the same depth as the radiator can reduce outputs by 4% and enclosing a radiator can reduce outputs by 15%.

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