Baseboard heaters are a common type of electric heating system found in many homes. They are relatively inexpensive to install and operate. However, baseboard heating systems tend to be inefficient compared to more modern heating solutions. Upgrading from baseboard heating can provide benefits such as improved temperature control, lower energy bills, and increased home comfort.
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How does baseboard heating work?
Baseboard heaters consist of long metal pipes filled with heating elements and a finned metal housing. When turned on, the heating elements warm the interior metal pipes, which in turn heat the metal fins. The fins radiate heat into the room via thermal radiation and convection.
A thermostat controls each baseboard unit, allowing the temperature to be adjusted in different rooms. Baseboard heaters use 240-volt power and are hardwired into the home’s electrical system. The wattage of each heater determines its heat output.
What are the disadvantages of baseboard heating?
While inexpensive to install, baseboard heaters have some drawbacks:
- Energy inefficient – Baseboard heaters generate a lot of waste heat. They heat up entire rooms instead of people and particular spots.
- Temperature inconsistencies – Rooms often end up with hot and cold spots due to poor heat distribution.
- Noisy – The sound of the heating elements turning on and off can be distracting.
- Lack of features – Baseboard heaters lack programmable thermostats and timers.
- Unsightly appearance – The wall-mounted units aren’t aesthetically pleasing.
- Dry air – Excessive heat can dry out air and cause discomfort.
- Limited control – Each heater has its own manual thermostat knob.
Why upgrade from baseboard heating?
Upgrading a baseboard heating system to a more modern solution can provide a number of benefits:
- Greater efficiency – Newer systems like heat pumps offer more effective heat distribution while using less energy.
- Improved temperature control – Smart thermostats and zoned heating allow better whole home comfort.
- Lower energy bills – Increased efficiency can cut heating costs by up to 30%.
- Enhanced features – Programmable settings, remote access, and automation.
- Better aesthetics – Hydronic and forced air systems have less visible components.
- Added functionality – Options like air conditioning and air filtration.
- Safety – Eliminate risks of high voltage and overheating.
- Home value – Upgraded systems can increase resale value.
Heating system upgrade options
Several modern heating systems are available to replace baseboard heaters. The options include:
Electric forced air furnace
Electric furnaces work by blowing hot air through ductwork to heat a home. Benefits include:
- Even heating throughout rooms.
- Flexible temperature control.
- Centralized climate control.
- Can be paired with AC.
- Higher efficiency than baseboard heating.
Downsides of electric furnaces include upfront costs and the need for ductwork.
Hydronic heating
Hydronic or radiator systems use hot water circulated through pipes and radiators to heat a home. Pros include:
- Very responsive temperature control in each room.
- Operate at low water temperatures for efficiency.
- Radiators can heat rooms evenly.
- Boiler isolates noise away from living spaces.
The disadvantages of hydronic heating are higher installation costs and loss of usable floor space to radiators.
Electric heat pumps
Heat pumps move heat instead of generating it directly. Benefits include:
- Provide both heating and AC.
- Lower home energy use by up to 50%.
- Even, consistent comfort control.
- Long lifespan with minimal maintenance.
- Quiet operation.
The main downside of heat pumps is that initial costs are higher than some systems.
How to upgrade from baseboard heating
Upgrading a baseboard heating system involves several key steps:
- Hire contractors – Have HVAC and electrical professionals assess the current system.
- Select replacement system – Choose a new electric or hydronic system based on home layout, climate, and efficiency needs.
- Size the system properly – The contractor should calculate required heating capacity.
- Install new HVAC equipment – This may include a furnace, boiler, heat pump, pipes, ductwork, vents, thermostat, etc.
- Remove old baseboard heaters – The contractor will take out the old system safely.
- Update wiring – Electrical work may be needed to support the new system.
- Commission the system – Have the contractor test for proper operation.
- Perform any finish work – Patch walls, install new trim molding, repaint, etc.
Typically the installation process takes several days with potential for longer project timelines depending on the home. Work with qualified professionals to ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget.
How much does it cost to upgrade baseboard heating?
Upgrading a baseboard heating system to a modern alternative is a significant investment. Typical costs include:
- Electric furnace: $4,000 to $12,000 installed
- Hydronic boiler with radiators: $12,000 to $35,000 installed
- Ductless heat pump: $3,000 to $8,000 per ton of heating capacity
- Forced air heat pump system: $4,000 to $15,000 installed
Many factors influence the total project cost:
- Home’s size, age, and layout
- Climate and heating needs
- Type and size of system
- Labor rates in the area
- Extent of additional repairs needed
- Enhancements like zoning, thermostats, filtration
To help offset the sizable initial costs, there are often rebates and tax credits available for upgrading to more energy efficient heating systems.
Are upgrades worth the investment?
Upgrading a baseboard heating system can require a significant upfront investment. However, there are many benefits that can provide a good return on your money over time:
| Benefit | Savings |
|---|---|
| Lower energy bills | Save 10-30% on heating costs |
| Rebates & tax credits | Save hundreds to thousands of dollars |
| Added functionality | Get AC and/or humidity control |
| Increased comfort | Enjoy consistent, draft-free warmth |
| Enhanced control | Precisely control temperature |
| Greater safety | Reduce risks of electric shocks and burns |
| Higher efficiency | Cut carbon footprint and environmental impact |
| Improved aesthetics | Gain modern, sleeker system appearance |
| Increased home value | Boost resale value significantly |
For most homeowners, upgrading an old, inefficient baseboard heating system makes excellent financial and practical sense despite the upfront costs. The improvements to comfort, efficiency, safety, and functionality can make the investment very worthwhile in the long run.
Conclusion
Upgrading from baseboard heating to a modern system is a major project, but can yield significant benefits. Key steps involve hiring contractors, selecting replacement equipment, removing the old heaters, installing the new HVAC system, and finishing all required work. Total costs typically range from several thousand to tens of thousands based on the home and selected equipment.
While not inexpensive, upgrading baseboard heating provides much more effective temperature control, greater efficiency, lower energy use, advanced features, improved aesthetics, added functionality like AC, and enhanced safety. For most homeowners, the comfort, cost savings, rebates, and added home value make the investment in a new heating system well worth considering.