Heat Pumps vs. Electric Baseboard Heat: Two Very Different Ductless Options

Irrespective of the type and performance, electric baseboard heaters are widely used as a fairly simple, reliable and inexpensive alternative to central air. Nonetheless, energy efficient split ductless heat pumps act as a supplement to electric baseboard heat that rivals them in every crucial aspect without needing invasive ductwork. 

Learn more about baseboard heaters and the alternative mini split option to make the right choice for your home.

Heat Pumps vs. Electric Baseboard Which is the Best

About Baseboard Heaters

Usually baseboard heaters are electric. They consist of electric heating elements contained in metal pipes and are backed up by thermostats in each room. They are placed under windows so their rising warm air will restrain cool air falling from the window. The units must be correctly installed so that they can function properly, and they have to be fitted perfectly to avoid heat leak between the unit and the wall.

Hydronic baseboards still use electric power, but do not warm the air directly. Instead, they warm air, water, or oil, which in turn heat the air. They are more costly than standard electric baseboard heaters. In either form, electric baseboards act as an alternative or supplement to central air systems, but there are other alternatives – and they may come in with greater benefits. Whichever form you choose, you should call experts for heating installation in Staten Island.

Baseboard Heaters Come With Common Drawbacks

• The quality of baseboard heaters varies wildly and there are a few drawbacks that may have you considering alternatives:
• Different baseboard heaters function differently. There are a few drawbacks though. That’s why you need to consider alternatives:
• Many of the older and more affordable models produce peculiar noise, disrupting the use of a space.
• They provide inconsistent temperature control, thereby requiring proper insulation and connection to a line voltage thermostat to adjust temperature automatically. When not connected, temperature control suffers badly.
• Although the modern baseboard heaters are designed to have low surface temperatures, they can still get hot to the touch. As they hug the wall on the floor, they are in reach of children and pets, which can cause safety hazards.
• Baseboard heaters deliver very dry heat that can cause irritation to skin, eye, nose and throat. This can be resolved with the help of a humidified, but running both can cause a spike in energy expenditures.
• Baseboard heaters often emit a burning smell after period of desuetude because of dust that may collect.

Make the right choice that’s right for your home. Call out experts for heating system installation. 

Also Read: What Causes Short Cycling in Your Air Conditioning System