How Much Does It Cost To Install An Electric Baseboard Heater?

Electric baseboard heat cost calculator

When calculating the cost to install electric baseboard heat, keep in mind that prices may vary depending on a range of factors. The national average for a new baseboard heater including installation is approximately $782. For most homeowners, it costs as low as $401 and as high as $1,184 per heating unit. On the extreme high end, they can cost as much as $2,100. Without factoring in labor, the heater itself can be as inexpensive as $20 or as much as $200 apiece or even more. If you're looking for an easy and affordable way to heat your home, electric baseboard heat is one of the best choices available today. This style of heating doesn't require venting or ductwork, which makes installation costs exceptionally lower than a whole-home furnace or another HVAC system. Before you calculate the cost to install electric baseboard heat, get at least three estimates from licensed electricians in your area. They can help you determine which unit is right for you and any requirements to ensure safe, effective installation.

Types of baseboard heating units

There are several different types or styles of baseboard heating units to choose from, and each has its own unique qualities, energy source, and heating ability. These baseboard heaters include:

Electric baseboard heating cost

An electric baseboard heating unit is inexpensive and typically costs no more than $60 for each heater. The unit works to heat your room by using electric coils that warm up to radiate heat into the surrounding air. This type of baseboard heating is extremely reliable and requires no liquids or gases to operate. There are also no moving parts or motors, which means it's a low-maintenance option that can provide heat to your home for decades.

Oil-filled baseboard heating cost

These baseboard heaters include an element that warms up oil to keep the room at a comfortable temperature. As the oil heats up, the liquid heats the air instead of the unit itself. An oil-filled baseboard heating unit costs up to four times more than an electric one with an average cost of between $200 and $250 per unit. The oil takes longer to heat up than metal coils, so it can take some time to warm a room if it's been sitting empty for a long time.

Hydronic baseboard heating cost

A hydronic baseboard heater uses water instead of oil to heat the air. You can also have a system of pipes installed under your floors to add warmth to any room, but this option is much more expensive than a standalone baseboard heating unit. With a hydronic heater, an element warms up the water, and the heated water then warms the surrounding air. These units are also more costly than electric heaters and may cost around $250 or more each. There are also fewer size options for these heaters so they may not sufficiently heat larger rooms unless more than one is installed.

Electric baseboard heater vs electric wall heaters

A wall heater is an easy way to achieve zoned heating and can easily heat up a small space. There are some distinct differences between an electric baseboard heater and a wall heater that may help you determine which option is best for your home heating needs.

• Electric baseboard heaters typically take around 30-60 minutes to heat up, while a wall heater takes just a few minutes.
• An electric floorboard (or baseboard) heater can last up to 20 years. Wall heaters typically have a lifespan of between eight and 12 years.
• If you're concerned about floor space or the layout of your furniture, a wall heater may be the better option. You'll need at least six to 12 inches of empty space between an electric baseboard heater and your furniture, rugs, and window treatments.
• Temperatures of an electric baseboard heater are slightly lower and cooler to the touch than a wall heater, which is hot to the touch.
• The cost to install electric heat may vary, but wall heaters are more effective at heating larger spaces. If you need more heat, you might need to pay for more than one baseboard heater per room depending on your needs.

Electric baseboard heater cost factors

When budgeting for the cost to install electric baseboard heaters, there are several factors to take into consideration. These factors can play a role in determining your total installation costs and could make a difference when you look for heating solutions that fit within a certain budget. Some of the factors to keep in mind include:

Hourly cost

If you're wondering about the hourly operating costs of your electric baseboard heater, it will depend on the size of the rooms you need to heat. For a 1,200 square-foot home with decent insulation, your heater will require around 12,000 watts of power. In this case, your monthly cost will be around $400 to run the heater alone. If your home isn't insulated well or if you live in a region with harsh winters, the cost could be doubled to $800 per month. In terms of the hourly cost, you can calculate this by dividing the wattage of your heater by 1,000. Next, multiply this number by the number of hours per day you plan to run the unit. Then, multiply the number of kilowatt-hours by your electric company's rate of kilowatts per hour to determine your rate.

Time of year

Winter is when labor rates for heating installation are highest, so try to have your new electric baseboard heater installed when it's still fairly warm. Electricians may charge less during slower times or offer discounts on labor and installation of heating systems. Get estimates no later than the end of autumn or early winter to ensure you're getting the best possible price.

Electric baseboard heater labor cost

You'll need to hire an experienced electrician to make sure your new electric baseboard heaters are installed correctly. This labor rate is typically between $75 and $250 per hour, but it could be lower or higher depending on your location. It's best to use an electrician for this type of work since they understand how to wire and connect the heaters the right way and will ensure that everything is installed to the right electrical codes and safety regulations. If you enlist the help of an HVAC installer, their average labor rates range between $85 and $95 per hour.

Electric baseboard heater replacement cost

If your electric baseboard heater is no longer working, damaged, or old, you can pay for a replacement. The installation company (HVAC or electrician) will charge you separately for the disconnection, removal, and disposal of your old unit or units. Some companies charge a flat fee while others may charge you per unit that needs to be replaced. In addition to removing the old baseboard heater, they'll need to confirm whether or not you need new wiring to be sure that the heater is up to code. Most companies will charge between $85 and $95 per hour to remove your old heater, but this cost also depends on the size and complexity of the heating system you have. Depending on where you live, you may also need a permit before you can install new baseboard heating. Check with your installer to find out whether or not a permit is required and be sure to ask if there are any additional costs.

Electric baseboard heater repair cost

Once they're installed, an electric baseboard heater should run smoothly. However, there may be issues with wiring or problems with the unit itself that require professional repair. On average, it costs around $260 to repair an electric baseboard heater. Prices can be as low as $60 to as much as $700 or more depending on the issue and whether or not you'll require a brand-new unit. Contact an electrician or HVAC company to troubleshoot your baseboard heater. They can determine the cause of the issue and make recommendations for repair. Here are some examples of common problems along with the average cost to fix them:

Faulty heating elements

Sometimes, the heating element simply goes bad in electric baseboard heaters. Always hire a pro for this job since it requires an understanding of how to work with live wires. The cost of a new heating element ranges between $20 and $40 each.

Broken thermostat

A broken thermostat can make your indoor temperatures out of whack. It should cost between $100 and $250 for a new thermostat, but it may be higher if you decide to upgrade to a smart thermostat.

Shorted limiter switch

A thermal limiter switch is an important component of electric heating, and if it's shorted, you may need a brand-new unit. Plan to pay between $380 and $1,000 for the repair or replacement of this component.

Blown fuses

A blown fuse is common and flipping the breaker could be an easy fix. If you need a new breaker, they can cost between $5 and $50 apiece not including labor.

Maintenance

Simple maintenance can keep your electric baseboard heat running smoothly. Keep the vents clear of dirt and debris, and make sure no furniture is blocking the intake. Use a rag to clean the inside of your heater to keep the hardware clean and to prevent issues with the heater operating correctly.

Electric baseboards heaters pros and cons

There are benefits and drawbacks to using electric baseboard heating in your home, so let's take a closer look at the pros and cons:

Electric baseboards heaters pros

• Electric baseboard heaters are an inexpensive and effective way to heat your home that costs less than almost any other heating type.
• You'll get fast, even warmth throughout the room since baseboard heaters produce enough heat to warm up an average-size space.
• Electric heat does not produce emissions, so there's no need to worry about toxicity or breathing in dangerous fumes.
• No ductwork is required to install an electric baseboard heater, so the installation process is fairly fast and easy.

Electric baseboards heaters cons

• When using an electric baseboard heater, it can take some time for the room to warm up, while gas heat takes much less time.
• Some people don't like the way baseboard heaters look on the wall. You'll also need to adjust your furniture layout to maintain an empty space between the furniture and the heating unit.
• These heaters require regular cleaning to ensure efficient operation. Frequent dusting or wiping is needed to make sure the vents are free and clear of debris.