Electric heat is a common heating system found in many apartments. It provides an effective and affordable way to heat an apartment unit. Here is an overview of how electric heating systems work in apartments.
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Types of Electric Heat
There are two main types of electric heat used in apartments:
Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard heaters are long, thin units that are installed along walls near the floor. They contain electric heating elements encased in a metal pipe. When turned on, the electric current runs through the heating elements, which warm up to provide radiant heat. The warmed metal piping also heats the air through convection.
Baseboard heaters have a thermostat and individual temperature control. They are generally 240 volts and hardwired directly into the building’s electrical system. Baseboard heaters provide zone heating, meaning each room can be heated separately.
Wall Heaters
Wall heaters, also known as wall furnaces, are box-shaped electric heaters that are recessed into the wall. They work similarly to baseboard heaters, using electric heating elements to warm the air. Wall heaters circulate air through vents at the top to heat a room.
Wall heaters can be 120 or 240 volts. They also allow for zone heating control in each room. Wall furnaces are more expensive to install than baseboard heaters.
How Electric Heat Works
Electric heating systems use the same basic operating principles:
- Electric current runs through resistive heating elements
- As the current passes through, the heating elements warm up due to resistance
- The heat is transferred to the room through radiation and convection
The key components of electric heat are:
Heating Elements
The heating elements are made of materials with higher electrical resistance, like nickel-chromium wire. As electricity passes through the wire, resistance causes heat generation. Common types of electric heating elements include:
- Nichrome wire coils
- Etched metal foils
- Ceramic discs or rods
Thermostat
The thermostat allows the occupant to control the temperature. It senses the room temperature and switches the heating elements on or off to maintain the set point. The thermostat may be mounted on the baseboard or wall unit.
Blower Fan and Vents
For wall furnaces, a blower fan circulates air across the heating elements. Vents at the top distribute the heated air into the room using natural convection. The continuous circulation distributes the heat evenly.
Insulated Casing
The heating elements and wiring are protected within an insulated metal casing. The case allows Safe heat transfer to the room while protecting the components.
Benefits of Electric Heat in Apartments
Electric heating offers several advantages in apartment units:
- Lower upfront costs – Electric heaters are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install, keeping initial costs down.
- Zone heating – Unlike central heat, electric systems allow tenants to control the temperature room-by-room.
- No ductwork – Electric heat does not require air ducts running through walls and ceilings.
- Minimal maintenance – Electric heating systems have few moving parts requiring maintenance.
- No combustion or fumes – Electric heat does not involve combustion, so there are no emissions or risks of carbon monoxide.
- Precise temperature control – Thermostats allow occupants to easily adjust the heat level.
- Modern and slimline aesthetics – Electric heating units are relatively small and sleek.
For apartment owners and managers, the zone control and lack of ductwork make electric heating an efficient system for multi-unit buildings. The lower costs and easier maintenance are also advantages over centralized heating plants.
How Much Does Electric Heat Cost to Run?
The cost of running an electric heater depends on:
- The local electricity rate per kWh (kilowatt-hour)
- The heating capacity and efficiency rating of the unit
- The size of the space being heated
- The insulation and air tightness of the apartment
- The climate and seasonal weather
Here is an overview of the typical operating costs for common electric heaters:
Electric Baseboard Heaters
| Heater Wattage | Approx. Cost per Hour (at $0.12/kWh) |
| 500 watts | $0.06 |
| 750 watts | $0.09 |
| 1000 watts | $0.12 |
| 1500 watts | $0.18 |
For a typical 1,500 watt, 5-foot baseboard heater running 6 hours per day for a month, the estimated cost would be:
1,500 watts x 6 hours x 30 days = 270 kWh
270 kWh x $0.12 per kWh = $32.40 per month
Electric Wall Heaters
| Heater Wattage | Approx. Cost per Hour (at $0.12/kWh) |
| 2,500 watts | $0.30 |
| 3,000 watts | $0.36 |
| 4,000 watts | $0.48 |
| 5,000 watts | $0.60 |
For a 5,000 watt wall heater running 5 hours per day for a month, the estimated cost would be:
5,000 watts x 5 hours x 30 days = 750 kWh
750 kWh x $0.12 per kWh = $90 per month
These examples demonstrate how higher wattage and longer run times increase the heating costs. Proper insulation, weatherization, and thermostat settings can help minimize costs.
Tips for Efficient Electric Heating Operation
Here are some tips for tenants to use their electric heating systems effectively and efficiently:
- Set the thermostat as low as comfortable when home, around 68°F to 70°F.
- Lower the thermostat 10°F when asleep or away to save energy.
- Use insulating drapes or shades to retain heat.
- Keep baseboard heaters and wall vents clear of furniture and objects.
- Change filters in wall heaters per manufacturer instructions.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture on dry winter days.
- Open shades during sunny days to utilize solar heat gain.
- Ensure windows and doors seal tightly without drafts.
Properly using setback temperatures, keeping vents clear, and adding insulation can improve the efficiency of electric heating by 20% or more.
Conclusion
Electric heating offers a versatile, zone-control heating option for apartments. Systems use electric current and resistance to generate heat. Baseboard heaters and wall heaters with thermostats allow room-by-room temperature regulation. Upfront costs are lower than centralized heating. However, energy costs may be higher than gas heating depending on utility rates. Using energy efficient practices can help offset operating costs. Electric heat provides an effective heating solution for multi-unit apartments.