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| | | Electric baseboard heaters are designed to look like large, decorative baseboards and are installed along the bottom of the wall. They take up very little space, are relatively inconspicuous, and don't require ducts or other major installation work. Of the home heating options, electric baseboard heaters are the cheapest and easiest to install and the most expensive to operate, according to the US Department of Energy | | |
| Typical costs: | - An electric baseboard heater costs $25 -$200 per unit, depending on options such as a programmable thermostat or hydronics (running the heating element through a closed-loop heat-transfer liquid for a more lasting warmth). An electric baseboard heater can be installed by any electrician for $125 -$300, depending on the complexity of the project. Adding three baseboard heaters in three rooms to supplement an heating system could run $400 -$1,500.
What should be included: | - Electric baseboard heaters provide warmth relatively quickly and evenly, and can be used in just one room at a time. They're best in warmer climates or where electricity rates are lower than the national average, such as the South or the Pacific Northwest. The US Department of Energy gives an overview of electric heating systems.
- Modern electric baseboard heaters are usually 3-10 feet long, generally extend only about 3-4 inches into the room, come in a variety of neutral colors but can be painted to match any room decor, operate at relatively low temperatures (avoiding wall discoloration) and can be mounted over any flooring, including carpeting. They're often used as a supplement to a central furnace or boiler (keeping one or more rooms warmer than others) or to heat new room additions. Nebraska Public Power District gives an overview.
Shopping for an electric baseboard heater: | - Manufacturers include Cadet, Raywall and Markel.
- Get several estimates, making clear what is (and isn't) included in each quote. Request and check references; ask about the contractor's length and type of experience; and be sure they're properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state. See if there are any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
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Article updated November 2007 |
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