Choosing Between a Baseboard Heater and a Wall Heater
Can I install my heater under a window or by a door?
| Baseboard Heaters | Wall Heaters |
Time Of Heat | Generally requires 30-60 minutes to heat a room | Uses fans to push heat into a room very quickly |
Wall Space Required | Requires less wall space | Generally uses more wall space |
Noise | Virtually noise-free; good choice for bedrooms | Generally quieter than a regular refrigerator |
Temperatures | Operates at lower temperatures, which means their surfaces are cooler to the touch than the surface of wall heaters | Operates at higher temperatures than baseboard heaters |
Lifespan | Life over 20+ years | Lasts 8 to 12 years |
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When installing your heater, it is recommended that you install it on an inside of a wall. If you are installing your heater by a door or window, make sure:
- The heater is not blocked by drapes
- There is no electrical outlet above or below the heater
- Airflow is not blocked by anything, like an open door
How should I mount my baseboard heater?
Baseboard heaters must be mounted horizontally-- near or at floor level only. For baseboard heaters, allow 12 inches of clearance in front of the heater and 6 inches to the side and above.
Can I use an ON/OFF electrical receptacle to control my baseboard heater?
NO—We recommend using a thermostat to control your heater. A line voltage thermostat is typically used with single-room heaters, such as electric wall heaters, or electric baseboard heaters. Low voltage thermostats are typically used to control heating and cooling systems, and are generally more common than line voltage thermostats. How to installing a thermostat for a baseboard Heater?
Only use a low voltage thermostat with a Baseboard Heater if:
- The amperage load exceeds the rating of the line voltage thermostat.
- It is combined with a relay.
How much heat do I need for a room?
First determine the square feet by multiplying room width by room length.
I have a Lot of windows or my square footage is not listed…
If your square footage is not listed in the chart, or you plan on installing a lot of windows, it is suggested that you choose the next highest wattage. Find the square footage that closely matches yours, and go up to the next highest in wattage.
I have a newer building or live in a warmer climate...
If you are looking to install heaters to a new building, or you live in a warmer climate, it is suggested that you choose the next lowest wattage. Find the square footage that closely matches yours, and go down to the next lowest in wattage.
Recommended Reading
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.
When choosing a heater, you need to choose the right voltage: either 120V and 240V. Read our guide to learn the differences between 120V and 240V and how to figure out which one you need.
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