Or they can act as the primaryheat for peripheral spaceslike cabins, basements, or additions.
Rarely are they used as theonlyheat source, except in some warmer climates where additional heat is rarely needed.
There are two different types ofbaseboard heaters:convection and hydronic.
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Baseboard heaters do not blow air, dust, pollen, pet hair, dander, and other pollutants.
This makes them a better option for persons who suffer from allergies or anyone affected by dust.
The functioning innards of this heater are comprised of a heating element.
Illustration: The Spruce / Kelly Miller
The interior electric coils heat up much like coils inside a toaster.
This jot down of heater either has a thermostat located on the heater itself or on the wall.
Sizes
Convection baseboard heaters offer the greatestoverall rangeof size options across all brands.
Sizes can range from a short 20-inch length to a longer 96-inch length and everything in between.
You’ll have fewer options from which to choose across all brands if you opt for long hydronic heaters.
Common lengths range from 35 inches to 94 inches and limited lengths in between.
Many convection heaters are sold in popular lengths measured by the foot.
If there is a problem, you may be able to fix it yourself.
Electric hydronic baseboard heaters seldom fail and need little to no maintenance.
That means watching out for corrosion, rust, or calcium deposits.
Energy Use
A convection heater uses about the same amount of energy as a hydronic heater.
However, the main value of these systems is that they have longer-lasting heat.
The liquid will remain warm for much longer after the thermostat goes off.
you could think of these as being likesteam or water radiators.
In hydronic systems, they might be self-contained or they might be fed from a central boiler system.
Baseboard heaters' economical nature stops after you leave the cash register.
One way to curb their appetite for electricity is to purchase a hydronic heater rather than a convection heater.
Some plug-in models can be found, though.
Both types of heaters have voltage options.
Some baseboard heaters run on either a 120- or240-volt line.
Other heaters only run on a 120-volt line but not a 240-volt line.
Hydronic heaters will cost about four times more than the corresponding convection baseboard heater.
Lifespan
Simple devices with no moving parts, convection heaters can last for decades.
The Verdict
Hydronic heaters create even and consistent heat, but at a price.
For less maintenance and ease of mind, convection heaters may be a better bet for most households.
Top Brands
Cadetis based in Vancouver, Washington, and has been in business since 1957.
Cadet provides ample assistance on its website for do-it-yourselfers who wish to install their own heaters.
Fahrenheat,Lowe’s favored brand is the one with the clever twist of words.
Fahrenheat is owned by Marley Engineered Products.
Fahrenheat baseboard heaters are comparable to Cadet in terms of sizing, features, and cost.
“Choosing the Right Hydronic Heater.”
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
