How Baseboard Heating Systems Work

If you’ve ever taken the time to walk around a slightly older home chances are it is heated by a hot water baseboard heating system rather than forced-air. This is because baseboard heating models are incredibly easy to install, as they require no ductwork and produce little to no noise at all while heated. In fact, it’s these traits that still make baseboard heaters a desirable home heating solution still today. However, without the vents and ductwork that we’d typically expect from a heating system, many of us wonder how these units work. Below is how baseboard heating systems work and the differences between hydronic and electric models.

Electric Baseboard Heating Systems

When baseboard heating systems are installed in a home, they’re often either an electric or a hydronic model. Let’s start by talking about electric models. These baseboard heaters function by drawing cool air in from the room around it, then heating that air with a series of metal fins with electricity running through them. As the air warms, it rises away from the unit and dissipates throughout the space. While this is effective in short ranges, it’s important to note that electric baseboard heaters are the least efficient option in general, as they tend to use large amounts of energy. They work much like a toaster heating a wire that gets hot and heats the room.

Hydronic Baseboard Heating Systems

On the other hand, hydronic baseboard heating systems work by heating up a water-filled cylinder, pumping the hot water and radiating that heat out into the room. A boiler heats the water and pumps the water silently through the pipes and fin tubes, radiating the heat through the house, very much like a reverse car radiator.  This process uses significantly less energy and can save you money on your electric bills. However, it’s also crucial to keep in mind that these models must be connected to a pipeline system in order to work. So, the installation process can be a bit more arduous. Overall, though, hydronic baseboard heaters are considered the most efficient type of unit to heat your home.

At EZ Snap™ Covers, we understand that your old, rusted baseboard heater can seem like something you might want to replace completely at first glance. However, with a bit of understanding of how they work and how you can improve their look and efficiency, they can easily be covered versus removed. This is why we offer top-of-the-line baseboard radiator covers to turn your baseboard heater’s outdated look into the modern look of today. With these tools at your disposal, your baseboard heaters will function better, look more appealing, and be safer for loved ones to be around.

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