Otis Singleton
Electric baseboard heaters are a great way to heat your home, and they offer an easy and economical way to arrange zones with independent thermostats. When it comes to choosing a thermostat for an electric baseboard heater, you have two main options: a standard non-programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat. Standard thermostats are typically more straightforward to install, while smart thermostats offer more features and can be controlled remotely. It's important to note that not all smart thermostats are compatible with electric baseboard heaters, so be sure to choose one that is designed for this purpose. The installation process for a smart thermostat may also vary depending on the number of wires your heater has. Whether you choose a standard or smart thermostat, always remember to take the necessary safety precautions and consult a professional if you're unsure about anything.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Thermostat Compatibility | Electric baseboard heaters are compatible with smart thermostats, but not all smart thermostats are compatible with electric baseboard heaters. |
| Thermostat Type | Line voltage/high voltage (120V or 240V) smart thermostats are required for electric baseboard heaters. |
| Installation | Installation can be done by a professional or by the user with proper safety precautions. |
| Wiring | Electric baseboard heaters have a central location for wiring, but each heater requires 240V. |
| Thermostat Features | Smart thermostats offer customizable schedules, remote control, and integration with other smart devices. |
| Cost | Smart thermostats can help reduce monthly electric bills. |
| User-Friendliness | Smart thermostats are user-friendly and easy to control with apps. |
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What You'll Learn
Smart thermostats for electric baseboard heaters
Electric baseboard heaters can be fitted with smart thermostats, which can help cut your monthly bills. If you have an old baseboard thermostat, you can replace it with a smart electric heating system without needing to replace your baseboard heaters or rewire your home.
Smart thermostats that work with electric baseboard heaters include Mysa, Sinopetech, Nest, and ecobee. However, not all smart thermostats are compatible with electric baseboard heaters, so it's important to choose an upgrade that works with your heating system. For example, electric baseboard heaters require a 120 or 240 volt (high or line voltage) smart thermostat, whereas central heating systems like gas furnaces or hot water boilers use a 12 or 24 volt (low voltage) thermostat.
When shopping for a smart thermostat for an electric baseboard heater, you should confirm its compatibility with your heating system. You should also consider the number and thickness of your thermostat's wires, as line voltage thermostats have a smaller number of thick wires.
If you are installing a new thermostat, it is important to take the proper safety precautions, such as turning off the power to your thermostat and baseboard heaters. You should also be cautious when working with line-voltage thermostats. If you are uncomfortable with electrical wiring or uncertain about what to do, you should consult a professional.
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How to install a thermostat
Installing a thermostat for an electric baseboard heater is a straightforward process, but it's important to take the necessary safety precautions and ensure that the power is turned off before beginning any electrical work. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a thermostat for an electric baseboard heater:
Step 1: Choose the Right Thermostat
Before starting the installation process, it's crucial to select a compatible thermostat for your electric baseboard heater. Electric baseboard heaters typically require a high-voltage or line-voltage thermostat that operates at 120 or 240 volts. Low-voltage thermostats designed for central HVAC systems are not suitable for electric baseboard heaters and can be dangerous. You can choose between a single-pole thermostat with one electrical connection or a double-pole thermostat with two electrical connections for more control. Additionally, consider smart thermostats designed specifically for electric baseboard heaters, ensuring compatibility.
Step 2: Prepare the Wiring
Turn off the power to the circuit and the baseboard heater at the circuit breaker. Use a voltage tester to verify that there is no electrical current running through the wires. Remove the cover plate or the junction box cover of the existing thermostat. Take off the cover and unscrew the thermostat from the junction box. Lift the thermostat away from the box without touching any wires.
Step 3: Disconnect and Connect Wires
Disconnect the wires connected to the old thermostat using wire cutters and strippers. Prepare the wires for connection to the new thermostat by stripping and twisting them together, using pliers as needed. Ensure you follow proper wiring procedures and consult a professional if you're unsure.
Step 4: Route the Supply Wire
If not already done, route the supply wire from the circuit breaker to the thermostat wiring box and then to the heater.
Step 5: Connect the Wires
In the thermostat wiring box, connect the ground wire from the circuit breaker to the ground wire in the box or the thermostat. Then, connect the supply wires to the thermostat wires, following the correct markings ("L1", "Line", "T1", "Load", etc.) and matching wire colours.
Step 6: Attach the Thermostat
Fold the wires into the box, and attach the new thermostat to the junction box. Ensure it is level and secure.
Step 7: Finalize Installation
Reposition the cover, and turn the power back on. Test the thermostat to ensure it is functioning correctly and safely.
It is important to note that if you are uncomfortable with electrical work or unsure about any step, it is best to consult a professional. Additionally, follow local electrical codes and regulations, and always prioritize safety when working with electricity.
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Line voltage vs. low voltage
Electric baseboard heaters typically use line voltage thermostats. These thermostats are also used for other heaters powered by electricity, such as wall heaters, cove heaters, and in-ceiling radiant heaters.
Line voltage thermostats can handle up to 120V or 240V. They are common in electric baseboard heaters, radiant heaters, and convection heaters. They deliver electricity directly to the heaters and are often used in homes with electric heating, which is usually a zoned system, with each heater or room controlled by a separate baseboard heater thermostat.
Line voltage thermostats have two or four thick wires coming out of the back that are attached to the wires in the wall. They are also sometimes attached directly to the heater.
Low voltage thermostats, on the other hand, are used with central heating systems, including furnaces, boilers, air conditioning, heat pumps, and split systems. They have multiple wires going into them, and the wires are thinner than those used in line voltage thermostats. Low voltage thermostats run off of voltage somewhere around 6-30 volts, with 24 volts being the average.
Low voltage thermostats are more common in homes, as they are typically used with central heating systems. They require a transformer due to the voltage difference.
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Single pole vs. double pole thermostats
Electric baseboard heaters can be fitted with smart thermostats, which can be used to control the heating system. These thermostats can be either single-pole or double-pole.
Single-pole and double-pole thermostats are both types of line voltage thermostats, which typically control radiant, convection, or resistance heaters. The main difference between the two is that double-pole thermostats have a true off setting, whereas single-pole thermostats do not. When a single-pole thermostat is set to its lowest temperature, usually around 45°F (or 55°F), it will not run unless the temperature drops below that point. If the temperature does fall below this minimum, the heater will turn on, even if a single-pole thermostat is turned all the way down. This can pose safety risks if items are placed on or near the heater.
Double-pole thermostats, on the other hand, have a true off setting. When turned off, they will not turn on, even if the temperature drops below the minimum setting. This can increase energy efficiency and comfort, as no power stealing is needed to run the thermostat. However, double-pole thermostats require at least four wires for installation, which can make the process more complex.
It is important to note that some electrical installations may require a double-pole thermostat. Therefore, it is not recommended to replace a double-pole thermostat with a single-pole device unless advised by a qualified electrician. When choosing a thermostat, it is crucial to consider compatibility with your heating system.
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Compatible smart thermostats
Electric baseboard heaters can be fitted with smart thermostats, but not all smart thermostats are compatible with these heaters. A smart thermostat designed for electric baseboard heaters is a high or line voltage smart thermostat, which operates at 120 or 240 volts. Central heating systems, in contrast, are controlled by a low voltage (12 or 24 volts) thermostat.
The Mysa Smart Thermostat is a popular choice for electric baseboard heaters. It is simple to operate and can be controlled remotely via a mobile app or voice assistant. It is compatible with most 120-240 VAC electric/resistive heating systems, including electric baseboard heaters, fan-forced convectors, radiant ceiling heating, and self-contained hydronic baseboards. Mysa also offers a Lite version, which is more affordable and provides the same energy savings.
Another option is the Sinopetech Zigbee thermostat, which one user found to be compatible with HomeKit.
It is important to ensure compatibility between your heating and cooling system and the smart thermostat you choose. Proper installation is also crucial, and it is recommended to consult a professional if you are uncertain about the process or uncomfortable with electrical wiring.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, electric baseboard heaters have thermostats. These can be smart thermostats or conventional ones.
Smart thermostats can be controlled via an app, integrate with other smart devices in your home, and offer features like vacation mode, geofencing, and motion detection. Conventional thermostats do not have these features and are manually controlled.
First, ensure that the power to the heater is turned off. Then, remove the cover of the existing thermostat and disconnect the wires. Finally, connect the new thermostat and restore power to the heater. It is recommended to consult a professional for proper installation.
Electric baseboard heaters require a line voltage or high-voltage thermostat, typically operating at 120 or 240 volts. These thermostats have a smaller number of thick wires compared to low-voltage thermostats used in central HVAC systems.
Smart thermostats offer greater control over the temperature in each room, allowing for customizable schedules and energy usage data. They can help reduce energy consumption and costs while improving comfort and convenience.
