Best Electric Baseboard Heaters 2018
Electric baseboard heaters are a low profile attractive heating option
Are you ready for the winter? With winter come the ice storms, polar vortexes, and all that is freezing cold. It may be time to evaluate your heating system to see if it can stand up to the winter, while not costing you an arm and a leg. Energy conservation is playing a big role in the way heating systems are designed, and even if you already have a system, it may be worthwhile to explore your options.
Electric baseboard heaters are one option to consider. An electric baseboard heating system can act as a great supplement to a central heating system, or can even be used in place of a central system. It is cost effective when used wisely since you can focus the energy used to heat on the primary living areas rather than an entire home.
In this article we give you the chance to quickly and easily judge which electric baseboard heaters is for you from our comprehensive list of the best electric baseboard heaters.
Table of Top 10 Electric Baseboard Heaters
Before looking in detail at baseboard heaters and why we think they are a great option for heating your home we present the table of our top 10 best electric baseboard heaters. Click on an image or on the button to see more detail.
Image | Heater Name | Price | Rating | Select |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marley HBB750 Qmark Electric Hydronic Baseboard Heater | $$$ | 4.1 | |
| Cadet Manufacturing 05534 Baseboard Zone Heater | $ | 3.7 | |
| King 6K1215BW 6-Foot Baseboard Heater | $$ | 3.6 | |
| Cadet Manufacturing 09956 Baseboard Zone Heater | $ | 4.3 | |
| Lasko 5624 Low Profile Room Heater | $ | 3.3 | |
| Cadet 2F350W Model 09949 Electric Baseboard Heater | $ | 3.9 | |
| Fahrenheat FBE15002 Dual Wattage Electric Baseboard Heater | $ | 3.6 | |
| The CADET 9954 Baseboard Heater | $ | 4.0 | |
| HOMEBASIX LH844 30-Inch Baseboard Heater | $ | 4.2 | |
| Cadet Manufacturing 09958 Baseboard Electric Zone Heater | $ | 3.4 |
Are Electric Baseboard Heaters Right For Me?
In older homes where duct-work is not possible, or would be extremely expensive, lower voltage electric baseboards can be an excellent option for a heating system. Modern baseboard heaters come in a wide variety of sizes, so they can be used to put a little extra heat in smaller spaces while running the central system on a low setting. With the wide range of designs that are on the market, most of us can find a heater to suit their needs.
It is important to recognize that electric baseboard heaters may not be the best option for everyone. Depending on the size of your home, what sort of insulation you have, and your energy budget, baseboard heaters may not be suited for you. In cold climates, it can be very expensive to rely solely on baseboard heaters. This type of application is recommended in warmer climates where the winters are not very cold, or in smaller homes and apartments.
Challenges to Buying the Best Electric Baseboard Heaters: So Many Options!
While it is wonderful to have a wide selection of electric baseboard heaters on the market, one downside to this is that it can be difficult to determine which is best for you. There are different sizes and voltages to take under consideration. Naturally, smaller units with lower voltages are appropriate for smaller spaces and larger, more powerful units are intended for larger rooms.
Selection of electric baseboard heater manufacturer logos
One of the biggest challenges to finding the best heating system is understanding your home’s design and electrical capabilities. It isn’t as simple as just installing the unit, you need to be aware of whether your electrical circuitry can handle higher voltages. Many homes are equipped to handle 120 voltage wiring, and will probably require additional electrical work. It is best to consult an electrician when encountering a situation like this, as improperly installed electrical wiring is very dangerous.
Since there are so many options and variables to consider, this guide has been designed to highlight which features to look for while choosing your heating system. Only the best electric baseboard heaters have been reviewed for this guide, and a breakdown of each unit is listed. Along with descriptions and product specifications, these heating units are presented in a side-by-side comparison so you can determine which model would best suit your needs.
How do Electric Baseboard Heaters Work?
In electric baseboard heaters, air his heated by way of passive convection. An electrical current flows through a heating element encased by the unit. The air inside the unit is them heated, and rises out of the heater. This allows the heater to run without a fan for quiet operation. It is typically recommended that the unit is installed on the coldest wall of the room, as this facilitates the process of convection. Cold air falls into the unit, passively forcing the heated air up and into the room.
Electric baseboard heaters are controlled by thermostats that turn the unit on when the ambient air drops below a specified temperature. Depending on the model, the thermostats are built into the unit of must be installed separately.
Most electric baseboard heaters are hard-wired, meaning that they are directly connected to the home’s electrical circuitry. It is best to consult an electrician for this type of installation for safety purposed and to make sure your home is electrically equipped to handle the new heaters. Portable, plug-in versions of baseboard heaters are available. While portable heaters are convenient in that they do not require installation, they are no suitable for everyone especially those with small children.
Our Top 10 Best Electric Baseboard Heater Reviews
Marley HBB750 Qmark Electric Hydronic Baseboard Heater
The Marley HBB750 Qmark electric hydronic baseboard heater utilizes an electric/hydronic element to deliver the heat. Hydronic baseboard heaters use a reservoir of water in order to deliver the heat. The heat is gently pumped around the heater ensuring an even and consistent heating delivery.
The Marley HBB750 is made from high quality components able to deliver the heat very efficiently and almost noiselessly. The heater needs to be mounted onto the baseboard and hardwired in to a 110V supply. For this reason the installation, although not difficult, is more complex than many other electric baseboard heaters.
The unit is 34 inches long and weighs only 12 pounds. It is therefore easy to position in a convenient location without difficulty. The heat it supplies does not dry out the air, and as previously noted it is almost noiseless. It makes it ideal for most homes and most especially a great baseboard heater for the bedroom.
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Cadet Manufacturing 05534 Baseboard Zone Heater
The Cadet 05534 baseboard heater provides steady, quiet heat that is perfect for a small to medium sized living area or bedroom. Pulling a cost effective 1000 watts and providing a 5120 BTU output, this 48” design is the perfect space saver while quickly heating the area. This unit is remarkably quiet, making it the perfect choice for bedrooms or other quiet areas.
This unit comes with a 20-gauge junction box with a ground, plus right or left-hand connections for an easy install. A thermostat kit is also required for this unit, as there is no ‘off’ setting. The Cadet 8734 thermostat kit works well for this install. Unfortunately, this unit is not suitable for large or poorly insulated rooms.
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King 6K1215BW 6-Foot Baseboard Heater
The King 6K1215BW baseboard heater is an easy, cost-efficient way to heat a space up to 150 square ft. For an economical option, this 5120 BTU heater is a sturdy unit with a crush proof element and sleek design. Can be installed with a thermostat for controlled energy use. For an easy install, this is a great choice.
The King 6K1215BW weighs just 15 lbs. total, and all wiring is in the back of the unit. Built-in cable clamps and well-placed knockouts make for quick and easy installation. The King BKT1BW Thermostat Kit pairs well with this unit for controlled heating.
Drawing just 1500 watts, this 120-volt heater quickly heats a room while using a minimum amount of energy. Unfortunately, this model is not suited to larger spaces. It is most effective in rooms 150 sq. ft. in an area or less.
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Cadet Manufacturing 09956 Baseboard Zone Heater
The Cadet 09956 Electric Baseboard Heater is a powerful unit, providing 5120 BTU for heating a space up to 200 sq. ft. This heater runs quiet, so it’s a great option for nurseries, bedrooms, or studies. With a 6ft length, the Cadet 09956 heats more air so it heats air more quickly than other units.
This heater has a high-temperature safety shutoff switch for extra protection. This feature makes the unit an excellent choice for bedrooms and nurseries. The simple design of the Cadet 09956 works well in any home, but one thing to consider is the size - at 6ft long, it can be obtrusive in smaller, cluttered rooms.
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Lasko 5624 Low Profile Room Heater
The Lasko 5624 Low Profile Room Heater is a lightweight, portable heater is a great option for those who want to avoid an install. This quiet unit is powerful-effectively heating a room up to 300 sq. ft. It has a digital display for the thermostat and timer that gives you control over the device. The convenience of this portable design is perfect for those who live in milder climates.
This convenient heater has safety features to protect the family, such as an automatic shut-off and tip-over protection. This is especially important if you need to use this heater in a high traffic area, or around children. It does take up more space than the installed heaters, however, and can pose a trip hazard if not positioned carefully.
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Cadet 2F350W Model 09949 Electric Baseboard Heater
The Cadet 2F350W Model 09946 electric baseboard heater is the perfect, economical option for apartments or smaller rooms in a house. It pulls just 350 watts and puts out 1190 BTU to give you just the amount of heat you need where you need it. These are great for bathrooms if you prefer to keep the central heating system on a low setting.
This heater is ready to go, with a thermostat included and easy installation. It is just 24 inches wide, so it can fit in any room. It is important to bear in mind that this unit is appropriate for small spaces - the manufacturer recommends this heater for rooms up to 50 sq. ft.
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Fahrenheat FBE15002 Dual Wattage Electric Baseboard Heater
The energy efficient Fahrenheat FBE15002 baseboard heater is a great option for dens, bedrooms, and basements. This unit is portable, allowing for selective heating and more control over energy consumption. The heater operates quietly and efficiently, heating a 150 sq. ft. room in 30 minutes.
The Fahrenheat has a built-in thermostat for heating control and the unit does not get hot to the touch, so it is safe to have around small children. One thing to bear in mind is that this design tends to make a ticking sound due to expansion that occurs when the unit heats up, but it runs quietly once it’s warmed up.
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The CADET 9954 Baseboard Heater
The 4 ft. wide Cadet 9954 baseboard heater is durable, attractive design that is perfect for medium sized spaces. This 240V heater quickly heats a 100 sq. ft. room, and can handle larger, better-insulated rooms up to 300 sq. ft. large as well.
The Cadet 9954 uses a heated plate to quietly heat the space, so this unit works well in bedrooms or other places you want to keep quiet. It weighs just 9 pounds, making for easy installation and relocation. Unfortunately, a thermostat is not included, but must be purchased separately and installed.
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HOMEBASIX LH844 30-Inch Baseboard Heater
The HOMEBASIX LH844 30-Inch Baseboard Heater is quiet portable convection baseboard heater. It nestles into the baseboard ensuring a low profile while heating your room.
It measures just over 30 inches long, it is 6 inches deep and 11 inches tall. It is easily moved, should it prove necessary, with the weight only 7.7 lbs.
The Homebasix delivers a nice gentle heat at the 750 watt setting that can be beefed up if you put it onto the higher 1500 watt setting. Each setting is thermostatically controlled.
It is very quiet during operation which would suggest that it is useful for bedrooms however caution should be taken with kids bedrooms as the unit also gets very hot to the touch.
All in all the Homebasix LH844 baseboard heater is a good quality low profile baseboard heater providing good heating without too much effort or cost.
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Cadet Manufacturing 09958 Baseboard Electric Zone Heater
For quickly heating a large area like a living room or basement, the Cadet 09958 baseboard heater is a great option. Pulling 2000 watts, this 240-volt hardwired baseboard heater has enough power to get you through the toughest winter. At 8 feet long, this unit not only heats more air, it can heat faster than most units. Even though it’s powerful enough to heat a space up to 350 sq. ft. the Cadet 09958 still operates quietly, making it perfect for living areas.
For safety, this unit includes a high-temperature safety device that turns the heater off if it exceeds safe operating temperatures. It does require a hardwired installation, but the unit can be wired from either end, and the case is pre-punched at 1” intervals for easy installation.
While this is a powerful unit, it does pull more energy than smaller heaters, so it’s important to keep electricity cost in mind. Unfortunately, this 240 volt unit may not be suitable for older homes with limited circuitry, since additional electrical work would be required.
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Electric Baseboard Heater Thermostats
Some electric baseboard heaters come with an integrated thermostat, however, some do not. The reason for not including a thermostat is so that a number of heaters can be installed in a room and wired so that they can be operated from the same thermostat.
We recognize that purchasing electric baseboard heaters can be somewhat daunting, especially relating to thermostats. So we have provided brief reviews of a couple of thermostats that we think are worth looking at. One is installed onto the wall and the other is intended to be position in-line with the heaters themselves.
Image | Heater Name | Price | Rating | Select |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell CT410B Manual Premium Baseboard Thermostat | $ | 4.3 | |
| TPI Thermostat Baseboard Heater | $ | 3.2 |
Honeywell CT410B Manual Premium Baseboard Thermostat
The Honeywell CT410B Manual 4 Wire Premium Baseboard/Line Volt Thermostat is an easily installed manually operated thermostat that is compatible with electric baseboard heaters that pull up to 5,280 watts. Unlike many thermostats, there is a positive off switch so you have complete control over the heating unit.
This versatile thermostat can manage units that pull up to 5,280 watts and 240V up to 240V. With its wide range of temperature settings, the Honeywell CT410B is suitable for all spaces. It can hold a temperature as low as 35 degrees, so this can be a great option for keeping pipes from freezing in the basement. Unfortunately, this thermostat is not perfectly precise and ambient temperatures can vary by 5˚F.
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TPI Thermostat for Baseboard Heater
The TPI Thermostat kit is a versatile system that can handle a wide temperature range, from 50˚ to 90˚ Fahrenheit. The thermostat can be easily installed onto the heating unit to save space and cut down on added wiring. It has a simple design that complements any unit and is conveniently placed.
The TPI thermostat has a high power capacity, so it is suitable for heavy-duty baseboard heaters up to 22 amps at 120-240 V, or 18 amps at 277 V. An important thing to bear in mind is that this is a single pole thermostat, which does not have a true “off” setting. Also, not all heating units allow for direct thermostat installation, some require wall units.
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Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Buying Guide
Types of Electric Baseboard Heaters
Hardwired
These heaters are connected directly to the home’s electric circuitry and are mounted to a wall, usually below a window. This placement is recommended because cold air that drafts in from the window falls down into the unit, is heated by the element, and rises into the room. The placement is convenient since it uses a minimum amount of space and most designs are simple enough to complement any home. It is advisable to have an electrician install hardwired units, as it can be dangerous for the inexperienced handyman.
Portable
The portable version of electric baseboard heater uses the same type of technology in that air is heated by convection. Portable heaters may be more convenient for those who live in milder climates and have no need for a permanent installation. The downside to portable heaters is that they can pose a trip hazard if they are placed in a high traffic area.
Metal Coil versus Ceramic Core
Traditionally, electric baseboard heaters have been constructed with metal heating elements. This is perfectly functional and durable, but some newer models have been designed with ceramic heating cores. It is thought that ceramic heats up more evenly and retains heat longer than traditional metal cores, so ultimately less energy is used. Both options work well-this is a matter of personal preference.
Key Features
Energy Efficient
Electric baseboards can provide an energy efficient heating system if used wisely. They are best used for supplemental heat, with a central system on a lower setting, or in specific living areas where a central heating system is not needed. Different sizes and voltages are available for customized installation in different room sizes.
Good for Older Homes
Adding ducting is not always easy, practical or cheap
If your home pre-dates air-con and home furnaces it may not be practical to retro-fit ducting. It is possible as this article demonstrates, but it may not be straightforward
For older homes where installation of ducting is impossible, electric baseboards are an excellent option. Lower voltage heaters are available for easy installation in older homes; otherwise, additional wiring can be installed in order to accommodate the more powerful 240-volt heaters. It is best to consult an electrician when installing a baseboard heater in an older home because of these possible complications. Also, an electrician can make sure the wiring in your home is still safe.
Customized Climate Control - Inexpensive Zoned Heating
You can create your own heating zones with electric baseboard heaters
Since these are localized heating units, they are great solutions for those living in mild climates without harsh winters. Electric baseboard heaters can eliminate the need for a central heating system in a milder zone.
For those living in colder climates, individual heaters can be used to draw electricity to where you need it, with a central system running on a lower setting. Because these heaters are installed in individual rooms, you can according to individual preferences. This makes everyone happy since they can control the temperature in their own room!
Easy to Install
For those who don’t have a lot of experience with electrical work, it is recommended that an electrician is employed for the install. Most models are prepared for installation, and just need to be wired to the circuitry and mounted to the wall.
It is best to consult an electrician because electrical work can be dangerous for the inexperienced. A professional will be able to determine if your electrical system already has the appropriate wiring for the unit. This is especially important in older homes, which are typically wired for lower voltage.
Benefits of Baseboard Heaters
Cheap to Install
Most electric baseboard heaters are ready for installation, and only need tools to mount the unit. Hardware should be included with the heater. Of course, there will be cost involved if using an electrician for the install, but your safety is priceless! If a thermostat has to be purchased separately, chances are it needs to be wall mounted and this requires a little extra work.
With portable electric baseboard heaters, there is no installation cost! Simply plug into an outlet and heat the area. While these are convenient, it is essential to take care when deciding where to place the heater. Because they are not mounted, portable heaters can pose trip hazards, and like all heaters, they should have a good clearance away from flammable materials.
Safer than Space Heaters
Space heaters are notorious for being unsafe. The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that 32% of home fires are caused by space heaters, along with 79% of home fire fatalities. While most of these fires are caused by improper use of space heaters, the fact that they are portable and not mounted away from foot traffic make them more susceptible to damage.
Electric baseboard heaters are mounted away from foot traffic and are stationary. They cannot get knocked over, and do not have fans that can short out. The heating elements in electric baseboard heaters are either crushproof or protected by metal sheathing for additional safety. As long as they are installed correctly, and within the appropriate clearance of flammable obstacles, electric baseboard heaters are a safe option.
No Restrictions to Installing in Bedrooms
Their low noise, low profile placement and not being hot to the touch make electric baseboard heaters perfect for the bedroom
Electric baseboard heaters are safe for bedrooms, including a child’s bedroom or nursery. These units do not get hot to the touch, the heating element is contained within the unit, and its stationary position helps prevent dangerous accidents.
Of course, the case is different with portable baseboard heaters. While portable versions of this type of heater do not get hot to the touch, they can pose a trip hazard. This should be taken into consideration when heating a child’s bedroom or a high-traffic area.
Drawbacks to Baseboards Heaters
Thermostats are Sold Separately in Most Cases
Unfortunately, most electric baseboard heaters do not include the necessary thermostat. While they are inexpensive, the thermostats do have to be purchased separately. Depending on the heating unit, the thermostat can be wall mounted or installed directly onto the heater. This should be taken into account when planning installation, as wall mounted thermostats need to be hardwired separately.
This is not the case with portable baseboard heaters, as most of these models have thermostats built in. A common complaint about the thermostats found in portable heaters is that they don’t maintain an accurate temperature. This can be a hassle if you are unable to supervise the heater.
Special Wiring has to be Installed Sometimes
In some houses, older homes, in particular, the electrical wiring cannot support the more powerful baseboard heaters that are on the market. This can be a hassle if you need a powerful heater because you live in a cold climate, or in an older home that cannot support ductwork for a central heating system. The wiring requirements should be taken into consideration when choosing the units and while planning installation.
Works Best in Well-Insulated Rooms
Because heat rises, a poorly insulated structure will not be able to contain the heated air. This will cause a higher expenditure of energy and will be expensive in the end. If you’re considering installing a system of electric baseboard heaters, it’s best to evaluate whether your home has adequate insulation first. No matter which type of heating system you decide to go with, upgrading your insulation can save a lot of energy and money over time.
Installation
If you decide to go with an electric baseboard heating system, it is best to consult an electrician if you do not have a lot of experience with electrical work. There are wiring requirements to be aware of, and some of the powerful heaters use a voltage that can be dangerous to work with. You also need to make sure that there are enough circuit spaces in the service panel to accommodate your heaters-220 volt circuits require to breakers.
Here's a great video by a quality electric baseboard manufacturer giving instructions on a simple installation.
Be careful while planning your thermostat positioning, since positioning it near the heating unit may result in an inaccurately high temperature reading. It is typically recommended that the heater is placed on the coldest wall in the room, and low to the ground since heat rises.
Be sure to avoid installing the unit near electrical outlets, as this poses a fire hazard. Follow all recommendations at to clearance, as obstacles like furniture and drapery can be dangerous or block the air flow.
Maintenance
Keeping the fins free of dust and debris will increase the efficiency of your heaters
Electric baseboard heaters are very easy to maintain. To keep your unit running efficiently, regularly clean the outside cover to remove dust, pet hair, and debris. Be sure to lower the thermostat before cleaning the fins. To access the heater fins, you must remove the front cover of the unit. Vacuum and thoroughly clean the baseboard heater fins using compressed air or pipe cleaners. Inspect the fins for any damage or bending. If fins bend during the cleaning process, carefully straighten them with fliers.
Make sure there is at least 12 inches of clearance between the unit and any curtains that hang above it. This ensures proper distribution of heated air and is important for fire safety. Keeping the unit clear of obstructions also helps to keep dust and debris away from the heater. While dust does not pose a safety issue, it can impact the efficiency of the heater.
During the warmer seasons when the heaters are not in use, it may be a good idea to get a cover specifically for baseboard heaters to prevent dust buildup throughout the year. The units should also be vacuumed before the cold season to remove any buildup. Also inspect the unit for any evidence of damaged wires or heating elements, as this can pose a fire hazard.
Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Safety Tips
- Fire prevention: Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation as to how much clearance the unit requires. Typically, furniture needs to be at least 6 inches away from the unit and curtains should not hang in front of or on top of the heater.
- Be careful with children: Children love to hide toys and small things wherever they can, so make sure this does not happen since any foreign object in a heater presents a fire hazard
- Make sure the unit is installed correctly: Faulty wiring can cause a unit to overheat, installing a unit below an electrical outlet is a fire hazard.
Summing it Up
Electric baseboard heaters can be a convenient, economical way to heat your home. Whether used for supplemental heating in addition to a central system, or for selective heating, there are plenty of models on the market to suit everyone’s needs.
As we are becoming more conscious of energy consumption, it is important to think out of the box in terms of climate control for the home. It is well known that central heating and air systems use a tremendous amount of energy, and a supplemental system such as the electric baseboard unit allows for conservative use of the central heating system. For smaller spaces such as apartments or in warmer climates, it is possible to rely solely on electric baseboard heaters.
As with any heating system, planning is necessary as well as general knowledge of how your home is laid out. It is important to know which models are appropriate for your needs-room size, electrical capabilities, and safety concerns should all be taken into consideration when choosing an electrical baseboard heating system.
