Electric Baseboard Heaters: Replace Or Repair?

Electric baseboard heaters are a common feature in older buildings, providing convection heat by warming the air from the floor upwards. They are known for their resilience and require minimal maintenance, but they do have a lifespan of around 15-20 years. As such, it is important to know when to replace them. If your heater is very old and showing signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage, it may be time to replace it with a newer, more energy-efficient model. This is especially important if your heater is no longer heating effectively, making unusual noises, or causing a rise in your energy bills. While it is possible to replace a baseboard heater yourself, it is hazardous due to the electrical work involved, and it is highly recommended to hire a professional to ensure safe and proper installation.

Cost of replacement

The cost of replacing an electric baseboard heater varies depending on several factors. The price of the heater itself ranges from $25 to $200. The average cost to hire a licensed electrician to install an electric baseboard heater is between $390 and $1,190. The national average price for labor is between $75 and $250 per hour. The hourly rate can increase by an hour or two per heater if the installation requires running new wires in existing structures.

The cost of rewiring an electrical system can range from $2,000 to $9,000 for an entire house. Rewiring costs for a single project are typically $2 to $4 per square foot. Replacing a faulty heating element costs between $100 and $300, with the part itself costing $20 to $40 before labor. Replacing a thermostat costs between $100 and $250, with the part costing $15 to $25 for a basic model and up to $500 for a Wi-Fi-enabled model.

In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than making individual repairs, especially if multiple components are failing. Replacing an entire electric baseboard heating unit can cost between $416 and $1,531. The cost of a new installation can be up to $150 more than a replacement, as a one-for-one heater replacement typically takes less time.

The cost of installing electric baseboard heaters also depends on the climate and location. Installation costs can be twice as high in colder climates compared to warmer locations. Additionally, the cost of permits and labor can vary by location and season. Material costs, such as the price of raw copper, can also impact the overall price of the project.

It is important to note that electric baseboard heaters are considered one of the most expensive ways to heat a home. While they have low upfront costs, their high running costs make them impractical as a primary heat source for most homes.

Safety concerns

Electric baseboard heaters can be a safety hazard, especially for young children and pets, who may touch the hot grill. The National Fire Prevention Administration (NFPA) 2016 Report on Home Fires found that in 2009-2013, there were 6,950 home fires caused by fixed electric heaters.

Electric baseboard heaters can reach temperatures of 180 to 200°F, which is hot enough to cause burns and start a fire if flammable materials are left too close to the heater or touching the heating element. It is important to ensure that there is a safe distance between the heater and any flammable materials, such as curtains, toys, or throw pillows. Additionally, hanging curtains can interfere with the airflow in front of and around the heater, increasing the risk of fire.

To prevent fires, it is crucial to maintain proper airflow around the heater. Baseboard heaters operate by drawing in cold air, heating it with coils, and allowing the heated air to rise. If the airflow is blocked, the system can malfunction or overheat. As a general rule, furniture should not be placed within six inches of the heater, and curtains, fabric, and plastics should be kept away to prevent them from catching fire.

Another safety consideration is the placement of the heater in relation to electrical outlets. A baseboard heater should never be placed below an electrical outlet, as the cord could drape down and melt the cable's insulation. It is recommended to have a central thermostat control all heaters in a room to prevent any one heater from getting too hot or staying on for too long.

To address safety concerns, it is recommended to have electric baseboard heaters inspected annually by a certified electrician and to teach children about the dangers of touching or playing near the heaters.

Life expectancy

Electric baseboard heaters are known for their resilience and require minimal maintenance. However, they do not last forever and may eventually need to be replaced. The life expectancy of an electric baseboard heater is generally between 10 and 20 years, depending on the model, environment, and usage. Proper installation and maintenance can prolong the lifespan of the heater, but several factors can also reduce its life expectancy.

One of the main factors affecting the lifespan of an electric baseboard heater is prolonged use. The more a heater is used, the more wear and tear it experiences, leading to a shorter lifespan. Heaters in colder climates or those used year-round tend to have shorter lifetimes due to the increased usage.

Poor maintenance is another factor that can reduce the life expectancy of an electric baseboard heater. While these heaters require minimal upkeep, neglecting regular cleaning can lead to dust and debris buildup. This impedes heat flow and forces the heater to work harder, increasing the wear and tear on its components. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean electric baseboard heaters to remove dust and debris from the surface and between the fins, ensuring optimal performance and prolonging the lifespan of the heater.

Improper installation can also affect the lifespan of an electric baseboard heater. If a heater is not installed correctly, it may not function efficiently and be prone to breakdowns. This highlights the importance of professional installation to ensure the heater is set up correctly and reduce the likelihood of premature failure.

Additionally, electrical surges can damage electric heaters, significantly shortening their lifespan. Power surges can cause internal components to fail, leading to reduced heating efficiency or complete heater failure. In areas with frequent power surges, the lifespan of electric heaters may be significantly reduced.

Overall, with proper care and maintenance, electric baseboard heaters can be expected to last for 10 to 20 years, but several factors, including usage, environment, maintenance, installation, and external factors like power surges, can influence their lifespan. Regular cleaning, ensuring proper installation, and taking steps to protect against power surges can help extend the life expectancy of these heaters.

Energy efficiency

Electric baseboard heaters are known for their resilience and require minimal maintenance. However, they may eventually need to be replaced. A well-maintained baseboard heater typically lasts 15 to 20 years before it starts to decline. If your heater is not turning on, loses heat quickly, has a burning smell, or shows signs of corrosion or wear and tear, it may be time for a replacement. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your heater, but if your energy bills are rising, it might be a sign that your heater is no longer functioning efficiently.

Upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model can be a sensible investment. Replacing old electric baseboard heaters with a ductless heat pump system can result in savings of 25 to 50 percent on heating costs. Ductless heat pumps can also double up as air conditioners in the summer, making them a versatile option. However, it's important to note that installing a ductless heat pump system typically has a payback period of around ten years.

To improve the energy efficiency of your existing electric baseboard heaters, there are several things you can do. Firstly, ensure that drapes or curtains are not too close to the heater, as this can be a fire hazard and impact the effectiveness of the heating. Secondly, avoid setting the thermostat too high, as this will only increase your energy bill without heating the room any faster. Instead, set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature to optimise energy usage. Additionally, consider giving your heater an annual inspection by a certified electrician to address any issues and ensure optimal performance.

If you're considering replacing your electric baseboard heaters, it's important to note that it's not a simple DIY project. The installation process involves dealing with electrical wiring, which requires a certain level of expertise to handle safely. Incorrect installation can lead to electrical shocks, fires, or damage to your electrical system. Therefore, it's highly recommended to hire a professional electrician or a local baseboard installer to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Installation process

Electric baseboard heaters are a convenient and cost-effective heating solution, but they may need to be replaced after a few years due to wear and tear. While it is possible to replace them yourself, it is a hazardous job that requires dealing with electrical wiring, so it is highly recommended to hire a professional to ensure it is done safely and correctly.

The installation process for electric baseboard heaters involves the following steps:

Firstly, ensure your safety by switching off the circuit breaker for the heater at the main electrical panel. Tape over the breaker to prevent accidental reactivation, and use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off.

Next, carefully remove the old heater from the wall. Loosen and remove the screws securing the heater to the wall, which are usually located at the sides or top of the unit. This will expose the wiring behind the heater.

Once the old heater is removed, locate the metal cable entering the back of the heater and unscrew the metal plate holding the wiring in place. Disconnect the wire nuts joining the heater's wires to the home's electrical wiring, and release the ground wire from the grounding screw.

Now, position the new heater on the floor near where it will be installed. Remove the cover plate from the wire box on the unit, using a screwdriver. Pull the wires from inside the new unit to prepare for connection.

Following the same colour-coding as the old unit, connect the new heater to the home's wiring. Match black to black (or red) and white to white, securing the connections with wire nuts and electrical tape. Attach the ground wire to the grounding screw on the new heater and replace the metal plate.

Finally, position the new heater on the wall and secure it using screws. Turn the circuit breaker back on and test the heater to ensure it is functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you or a professional can safely and effectively install an electric baseboard heater, providing efficient and targeted heating for your home.

Frequently asked questions