Is Baseboard Heat Gas or Electric?
This heating system is more versatile than you think
Highlights
Baseboard heating can be fueled by electricity or gas.
Another option is to power baseboard heaters using hydronic power.
The average cost to install baseboard heating is $945.
Baseboard heating has been a popular heating method in homes since the 1950s. It can be an efficient way to heat your home and a budget-friendly option. As you compare various heating systems, you may wonder, “Is baseboard heat powered by gas or electricity?”
This guide will discuss the types of baseboard heating, how they work, and if it’s worth the cost to install with the help of a baseboard professional.
What Is Baseboard Heating?
Baseboard heating is a type of heating system that utilizes electric or hydronic power to warm the home, one room at a time. Units are typically placed along the base of the walls, and this system does not require ductwork, blowers, or vents.
This type of heating system is controlled by a thermostat, and the heat rises from the floor and circulates warm air throughout the room. Baseboard heating is also known as zone heating because each room’s temperature is controlled separately by the individual heaters.
Is Baseboard Heat Gas or Electric?
So, is baseboard heat gas or electric? Well, baseboard heating can be fueled by gas or electricity. Again, the two types of baseboard heaters are hydronic and electric and each works a bit differently. Hydronic baseboard heaters work by heating up a liquid, which can be either water or oil, that is fueled by natural gas, propane, or electricity.
Electric baseboard heaters work by heating up metal coils inside the metal pipes within the unit. This system creates what is called convection current, where the air passes through the heating element and then the warm air rises to heat the room.
Gas-Powered vs. Electric Baseboard Heating
So, which system is best for your home? Both types of baseboard heaters have pros and cons to consider when choosing between the two. For example, hydronic units that are gas-powered can have lower operating costs but require a gas line and a boiler to heat the liquid. Electric baseboards can be simpler to install but are more expensive to run, which leads to higher utility bills.
You should consider the upfront costs, ongoing expense, and heating needs when deciding on which type of heating system is best for your residence. Consult a local baseboard heating professional to determine which type of baseboard heater is the best choice for your home.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Baseboard Heaters?
The cost to install baseboard heaters depends on several factors, such as the type of heater, the number of units, and labor costs. For example, The average cost to install electric baseboard heating is around $945 on average, but it can range between $400 and $1,510.
An electric baseboard heater can cost between $200 to $1,100 per unit, and a hydronic unit can cost between $400 to $1,200 per unit. The average labor cost to install an electric baseboard or wall heater is between $75 and $250 per hour.
Is Baseboard Heating Worth the Cost?
Depending on the type of baseboard heating, the installation cost can be worth it as it’s less than installing other heating systems, such as forced air. Electric baseboards are simpler to install because they only need to be mounted along the wall and hardwired into your electrical system. Baseboard heat can be an efficient way to heat your home if installed and maintained correctly.
It can be an optimal choice for homeowners looking for a new heating system that is cost-efficient. However, electric baseboard heating is more expensive when it comes to your monthly utility bill. So, keep that in mind when deciding what is best for your budget. Get a quote from a baseboard installation company near you to help decide which type of system is right for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s vital to keep all objects, including curtains, furniture, and any other type of materials, at least 12 to 18 inches away from the heater. This can reduce the risk of fire and heat damage and allow the heater to operate efficiently. Stay safe by never putting anything near or on a baseboard heater.
The lifespan of baseboard heaters depends on factors, such as the amount of use, type, whether it’s installed correctly, and level of maintenance. However, if they are well-maintained, they can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years or more. Having your baseboard heating system inspected and maintained by a professional can help prolong its lifespan.
A baseboard heater can stop working for various reasons, but the two most common reasons are a faulty heating element or thermostat. If your baseboard heater quit producing heat, continuously trips the breaker, or has a burning smell, then you should call a professional as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.