The Pros and Cons of Wall Heaters

Wall Heaters Overview

Wall heaters use a heating element and fan to heat air circulated throughout a room. Electric wall heaters work well for heating a room, providing efficient and stylish heating without sacrificing space. Unlike central heat, there's no need for complex ductwork installations, offering a practical blend of functionality and design.

Types of Wall Heaters

Electric Heaters (e.g., Economy, Fan-Forced, Architectural):

Electric wall heaters come in diverse types, including Economy, Fan-Forced, and Architectural models. Economy heaters offer cost-effective heating, while Fan-Forced variants use a fan for quick heat distribution.

Architectural heaters prioritize seamless design integration while providing efficient warmth. Electric heaters are also used in situations where a central heating system isn't practical.

Hydronic Wall Heaters (e.g., H Series, BTU/H, BTU/H ecm):

Hydronic heaters, such as the H Series, BTU/H, and BTU/H ecm models, use heated liquid to evenly spread warmth in a space. Renowned for energy efficiency and quiet operation, they are well-suited for larger areas.

Gas Wall Heaters:

Gas wall heaters are installed into the wall just like their electric counterparts. Modern gas wall heaters no longer require ventilation systems to operate. These sleek electric heating alternatives, provide spot, supplemental, or primary heat to tight or limiting spaces. This helps free up floor space for more flexible use.

Choosing Energy-Efficient Wall Heaters

When selecting the appropriate in-wall heater, it's essential to take various factors into account. Consider the size of the space, the type of heater, its energy efficiency, safety features, design, and price. It is recommended that users ensure the wall heater's power matches the intended space. All the while, it is important to select a type (gas or electric heater) based on your needs.

Prioritizing energy-efficient options, can lower your power bill overtime. Considering design elements and additional features within your budget can help you stick to important financial plans and goals. Looking for safety features such as overheat protection and thermostat control can help to solidify a safe heating experience.

Wall Heaters Safety

What sets wall mounted heaters apart is their seamless installation. This setup enables the devices to securely attach to the wall. It also facilitates a seamless connection to the electrical panel.

Since the heaters are installed in wall, there are no visible wires. That means no tripping hazards like portable heaters tend to be.

Wall heaters are generally safe, posing no risks related to gases, flames, or chemicals. Responsible usage and proper placements are crucial to prevent potential hazards. They allow users to confidently enjoy the comfort and warmth provided by the wall heater.

When correctly placed and following safety precautions, these heaters can effectively maintain a comfortable room temperature.

To enhance safety, it's important to mount the wall heater at least three feet away from flammable items. Additionally, we recommend turning the unit off when not using it. Verifying that the chosen product is UL and CE certified before purchase ensures adherence to safety standards.

Responsible usage is essential to prevent potential hazards when using wall heaters. Proper placement ensures users can confidently enjoy the comfort and warmth these heaters provide.

Pros of Wall Heaters

Efficient and compact, wall heaters distribute heat swiftly, optimizing comfort in any space. Their space-saving design allows direct attachment to the wall, ideal for smaller areas. Some of the pros of these heaters include:

  • Heat Rooms Quickly: Combination of a heating element and fan circulation speeds the process of heating small rooms
  • Space-saving Design: direct wall attachment for freeing up floor space; ideal for smaller spaces, energy-efficient, reducing overall energy costs.
  • Installation and Maintenance: easy installation and minimal maintenance compared to central heating systems
  • Advanced Features: some wall heaters equipped with precise thermostats, remote controls, and Wi-Fi controls, providing accurate temperature control and optimizing comfort while minimizing energy consumption.

Cons of Wall Heaters

While wall heaters come with many benefits, it's important to be aware of their limitations. Wall heaters excel in smaller spaces like single rooms or offices, providing efficient and cost-effective heating. Some of these cons of these heaters include:

  • Less Effective in Larger Areas: wall heaters may struggle to efficiently heat larger spaces.
  • Small-Scale Heating: Since they heat individual rooms, wall heaters are not suitable as a primary replacement for traditional heating systems.
  • Slower Temperature Adjustment: The lack of ductwork can result in a slower temperature adjustment in multiple rooms, especially when compared to central heating systems.
  • Baseboard Heaters Last Longer: Baseboard heaters have longer lifespans, on average, than wall heaters

Wall Heater Maintenance

It is best to hire an HVAC professional to inspect or repair your old or damaged wall heaters. However, you can do some small tasks, such as cleaning parts, yourself.

Ensuring the optimal performance and safety of your wall heater involves a comprehensive maintenance routine:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can grow on various heater parts, affecting efficiency over time. Clean the wall heater regularly to ensure maximum performance. These added routines will help remove any build-up and ensure unrestricted airflow.
  2. Check for Loose Parts: Conduct a complete inspection of the in-wall heater to identify any loose screws, bolts, or brackets. Tighten these components as needed to maintain the structural integrity of the unit.
  3. Inspect for Damage: Examine crucial elements like heating elements, coils, and other components for visible signs of damage or corrosion. Replace any parts showing wear and tear to prevent further issues.
  4. Thermostat Testing: Verify the accuracy of the thermostat by adjusting temperature settings and observing the heater's response. A properly functioning thermostat is essential for maintaining consistent and comfortable temperatures.
  5. Vent and Exhaust Inspection: Regularly check the vent and exhaust system for any obstructions or issues. Ensuring that there are no problems helps maintain proper airflow in the system. A well-maintained exhaust system is vital for the safe operation of your wall heater.
  6. Safety Feature Testing: Regularly test the functionality of safety features, including the thermocouple. These features are crucial for identifying and preventing potential hazards, ensuring the overall safety of your heating system.

Wall Heater Installation

Disclaimer:

For the secure and efficient installation of in-wall heaters, it is crucial to engage a qualified electrician. Their expertise guarantees proper installation in compliance with electrical safety standards, as electrical work requires specialized skills.

Attempting installation without professional assistance is risky.

  • Installation Overview: Method depends on the heater's type, model, and internal workings.
  • Wall Assessment: Electrician checks walls for dedicated circuit breaker spaces and potentially converts older fuse boxes
  • Wattage and Safety: Electrician selects ground wire size, and ensures safety by turning power off before getting to work.
  • Wiring Process: Involves creating openings in drywall, then organizing wires with connectors and clamps.
  • Mounting Box and Thermostat: Cables are pulled into a mounting box while additional wires for thermostats are connected.
  • Wall Heaters Considerations: Separate thermostats may affect energy use. Consider room size, wattage, and insulation for optimal efficiency and electrical consumption.

Wall Heaters vs. Baseboard Heaters

When choosing between a baseboard and wall heater, several considerations can come into play. Wall heaters use fans to quickly warm rooms, enhancing air circulation and potentially saving energy with faster heating. They are effective at rapidly warming spaces while promoting efficiency.

Wall heaters, being more compact, offer flexibility in furniture arrangement by utilizing less wall space. Please note that the lifespan of these heaters depends on the model and maintenance routine.

In general, baseboard heaters last longer than wall heaters. The best heating solution depends on individual preferences and the specific needs of the room being heated.

Both options can be great options for your heating needs. Being that they both are efficient and sleek, the choice between the two, depends on your needs.

Recommended Reading

To heat your bedroom, you can choose between an electric wall heater and a baseboard heater. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type of heater before you make your purchase.

Sonama wall heaters provide comfort and fast heating to your home, and include an impact-resistant façade that makes it safe and sustainable. You can choose from three different types of heaters to find the one that best fits your needs.

With the increasing popularity of wall fan heaters, we encourage you to take a look at our Employee's Choice the Cadet Energy Plus Wall Heater! This heater features the perfect size for bedrooms, home offices, and guest rooms.

Heaters come in a variety of options and sizes, so how do you find the right one for your space? Read our guide to learn the differences between each type of eater and the proper applications for each.

Patrick Newkirk
Patrick Newkirk

Patrick Newkirk is a graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communications. As a Content Writer at HomElectrical, he uses his enthusiasm for learning, literature, and writing to offer insights into eco-friendly products and sustainable living practices. During his free time, he enjoys engaging in marketing endeavors for prominent brands, tending to his garden, and retreating to the coastal shores for some beach relaxation.

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