Can a Baseboard Heater Benefit You?

Baseboard heaters are often popular as an ideal room heating solution because they are silent, safe, and extremely energy efficient. They also require very little space and are usually inconspicuous, as they can oftentimes be installed underneath a window or recessed into a wall.

Electric baseboard heaters are essentially zonal heaters that are controlled by thermostats located within each room and are installed underneath windows where the heater’s rising air counteracts falling cool air from the window’s glass. These types of heaters utilize heating elements encased in metal pipes which are surrounded by aluminum fins to aid heat transfer. As air within the heater is warmed, it rises into a room, and cooler air is drawn into the bottom of the heater, with some heat also radiating from the pipe and housing.

When looking for a baseboard heater, keep in mind that there are essentially two types: electric and hydronic. Electric baseboard heaters such as the Q-Mark LFP6152 heat a home on a per-room basis and are designed as individual units. Expensive or complicated ductwork or central heating is not usually required with electric baseboard heaters. Although they are not as efficient as other central heating system, they function better than other space heating systems because they make use of the principles of radiation and airflow.

As for hydronic baseboard heaters such as the Q-Mark HBB754, these heat rooms by utilizing central heating and by channeling hot water from pipes to individual baseboard heating components. Hydronic baseboard heaters are extremely efficient - even more so than other kinds of central heating systems. These types of baseboard heaters should be used in conjunction with radiant flooring where heating pipes are positioned underneath the floor. However, keep in mind that some types of flooring can make this type of installation impractical.

When installing a baseboard heater, be aware that the unit should sit at least three-quarters of an inch above the floor or carpet, as this allows the cooler air on the floor to flow under and through the radiator. Also, to prevent warm air from convecting behind the unit and streaking the wall with dust, make sure that the heater fits tightly to the wall.

Lastly, in terms of the quality of baseboard heaters, quality varies considerably, and cheaper models can be noisy and give poor temperature control. Look for air purifiers that are UL listed and be sure to compare warranties of different models.