Electric Baseboard Heaters vs. Space Heaters: The Best Choice for Heating a Cold Room
The guest room gets extra chilly in the winter.
Your HVAC system just isn’t great at pushing air to that far corner of the house.
It’s a pain to drag out the space heaters from the basement and try to find a way to make them look okay with your seasonal decor.
Even then, it can make it uncomfortably warm in spots and leave other spots withering with cold.
There’s another option: electric baseboard heaters.
In this blog post, we’ll compare electric baseboard heaters and space heaters to help you make an informed decision about how to heat your space efficiently and safely.
What You Need to Know…
Understanding Electric Baseboard Heaters
Electric baseboard heaters are a type of zonal heating, meaning they heat specific areas or rooms rather than the entire house. They are typically installed along the baseboard of a wall and work by drawing in cool air, heating it over electrically heated metal fins, and then releasing the warm air back into the room.
Pros of Electric Baseboard Heaters:
Energy Efficiency
Electric baseboard heaters are highly efficient because they convert almost all the electricity they use into heat. Since they provide zonal heating, you can control the temperature in individual rooms, reducing energy waste.
Quiet Operation
These heaters operate quietly, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms, offices, and other quiet spaces.
Safety
Electric baseboard heaters are generally safe as they are permanently installed and have no exposed heating elements. They are also equipped with safety features such as automatic shut-off if they overheat.
Low Maintenance
Once installed, electric baseboard heaters require minimal maintenance. There are no filters to change or motors to lubricate.
Discreet Design
These heaters are installed along the baseboards, making them less obtrusive and better integrated into the room’s design compared to portable heaters.
Cons of Electric Baseboard Heaters:
Installation Cost
The initial installation of electric baseboard heaters can be more expensive than purchasing a portable space heater. However, this is often offset by their efficiency and longevity.
Slow to Heat
Electric baseboard heaters can take longer to heat a room compared to space heaters, which provide immediate warmth.
Fixed Position
Once installed, electric baseboard heaters cannot be moved. This inflexibility can be a drawback if you need a temporary heating solution or want to heat multiple areas at different times.
Understanding Space Heaters
Space heaters are portable devices designed to heat a small area or single room. They come in various types, including ceramic, oil-filled, and infrared models. These heaters are popular for their convenience and immediate heat output.
Pros of Space Heaters:
Portability
Space heaters are portable, allowing you to move them from room to room as needed. This flexibility is ideal for spot heating and temporary use.
Immediate Heat
Space heaters provide instant warmth, making them perfect for quickly heating up a cold room.
Low Initial Cost
Space heaters are generally inexpensive to purchase, making them an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
Variety of Options
There are many types of space heaters available, including those with oscillation, timers, and remote controls, providing various levels of convenience and functionality.
Cons of Space Heaters:
Safety Concerns
Space heaters can pose safety risks if not used correctly. They have exposed heating elements that can cause burns or fires if they come into contact with flammable materials. It’s essential to choose a model with safety features like tip-over protection and overheat shut-off.
Energy Inefficiency
While space heaters provide quick heat, they are less energy-efficient compared to electric baseboard heaters, especially for prolonged use. They can consume a lot of electricity, leading to higher energy bills.
Noise
Some space heaters, especially fan-forced models, can be noisy and disruptive in quiet environments.
Maintenance
Some space heaters require regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and ensuring that the heating elements are free of dust and debris. This is often forgotten and causes an unknown fire hazard.
Aesthetic Impact
Space heaters can be bulky and detract from the aesthetic of a room. They can also take up valuable floor space.
Comparing the Options: Which Is Best for You?
When deciding between an electric baseboard heater and a space heater, consider the following factors:
Usage Duration: If you need a long-term heating solution for a specific room, an electric baseboard heater is likely the better choice due to its energy efficiency and safety features. For short-term or occasional use, a space heater might be more practical.
Safety: For households with children or pets, electric baseboard heaters offer a safer option with no exposed elements. Space heaters require careful placement and constant supervision to ensure safety.
Cost: Consider both the initial cost and long-term operating costs. While space heaters are cheaper upfront, they can lead to higher energy bills over time. Electric baseboard heaters have higher installation costs but are more efficient in the long run.
Aesthetic and Space: Electric baseboard heaters blend into the room’s design and don’t take up floor space. Space heaters are portable but can be visually intrusive and take up room.
Heating Speed: For immediate warmth, space heaters are unrivaled. Electric baseboard heaters provide a more gradual but consistent heat.
Electrician Expertise: Installation and Safety
As experienced electricians, we at New London Electric recommend electric baseboard heaters for their efficiency, safety, and low maintenance.
Proper installation is crucial to ensure they operate safely and efficiently.
We can assess your home’s electrical system to determine the best placement and installation for your new heaters, ensuring they meet all safety standards and regulations.
Choosing the Right Electrician for Your Heating Solution
Choosing the right heating solution for your cold room depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Electric baseboard heaters offer a safe, efficient, and long-term solution, while space heaters provide quick and flexible heating for short-term use.
Our team of skilled electricians can install electric baseboard heaters safely and efficiently, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable year-round.
Contact New London Electric today to schedule a consultation.
Let us help you transform your cold room into a cozy, inviting space.
FAQs
Which is more energy-efficient: an electric baseboard heater or a space heater?
Electric baseboard heaters are generally more energy-efficient for long-term use because they convert nearly all the electricity they use into heat and can be controlled to heat specific areas.
Space heaters can consume more electricity, especially when used for prolonged periods.
Are electric baseboard heaters safer than space heaters?
Yes, electric baseboard heaters are typically safer than space heaters. They are permanently installed, have no exposed heating elements, and come with safety features like automatic shut-off if they overheat.
Space heaters, on the other hand, can pose fire risks if not used correctly and require careful placement to avoid contact with flammable materials.
How much does it cost to install an electric baseboard heater compared to buying a space heater?
The initial installation of an electric baseboard heater can be more expensive than purchasing a space heater. However, this cost is often offset by the heater's efficiency and longevity.
Space heaters are generally cheaper upfront but may lead to higher energy bills over time due to their lower efficiency.
Can I use a space heater as a long-term solution for heating a room?
While space heaters are great for quick and temporary heating, they are not the best choice for a long-term heating solution due to their energy inefficiency and potential safety risks.
Electric baseboard heaters are better suited for continuous use and can provide consistent, efficient heating.
What factors should I consider when deciding between an electric baseboard heater and a space heater?
When choosing between an electric baseboard heater and a space heater, consider factors such as:
the duration of use, safety, cost (both initial and long-term)
aesthetic impact
the specific heating needs of your space
Electric baseboard heaters are ideal for long-term, efficient heating, while space heaters are suitable for short-term, portable use.