|
|
| |
 |
|
| | | Old-fashioned steam radiators have given way to longer, sleeker, lighter-weight and more efficient versions that run hot water through pipes housed in baseboard-like enclosures which hug the bottom of the wall. Hot water baseboard heat is similar to radiant floor heat but with lower initial installation costs; it doesn't require tearing up the flooring in an existing home and can be used where there isn't space for an under-floor installation. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Installing a hydronic (hot water) baseboard heating system in a 1,400 square foot home runs about $6,000 -$8,000.
|
| What should be included: | - Hydronic (hot water) baseboard heaters are relatively inconspicuous and don't have the fan noise of a forced-air system. They can be used to replace expensive-to-operate electric baseboard heaters where adding ducting for a forced-air system is cost-prohibitive, according to the US Department of Energy. These systems are relatively inexpensive to operate, are energy efficient and provide a constant flow of warm air, but can take time to heat up or cool down. Another disadvantage is that there's no way to add air conditioning to the system. The Eugene Water & Electric Board in Oregon gives an overview.
- These systems use a water heater system to heat water and a pump to circulate hot water, which is piped through enclosures styled to look like large decorative baseboards.
|
| |
| |
| Shopping for a hot water baseboard heater: | - Manufacturers include Embassy Industries and Runtal.
- 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.
|
| |
Article updated November 2007 |
|
|
Digg this
del.icio.us
E-mail
Post