How efficient is electric heat?

Radiant electric heaters, commonly know as baseboard heaters, are 100% efficient.  Lots of times there are no economical ways to change to a cheaper fuel. Here are some ways to make sure the efficiency of electric heat is optimized.

1. Keep the baseboard heater element clean. Running the vacuum cleaner over the element using the bristle brush attachment at least 4 times a year will work wonders as the element heats up the air in the room.

2. Replace the thermostats. There are three kinds of thermostat control for baseboard heaters. The first, and least efficient is the little knob that is mounted on the unit itself. The second is the wall mount unit that controls the heat by sensing the room temperature from a point away from the heater and directly cuts the power to the heater when temperature is satisfied. The third is a wall mount unit that runs on low voltage controlling the power to the heaters via relays (switches) that are usually mounted at the electrical panel. A simple change of these thermostats to new units will result in about a 5% savings.

3. Replace the thermostats with electronic standard or programmable units. Technology has improved in the last few years and the accuracy of an electronic thermostat will result in 5% to 10% savings. Programmable units 10% to 15%.

4. Replace the heaters. Any heater between 15 and 25 years old is performing marginally and any heater 25 years old or older has outlived its useful, efficient service life. Modern units are sleeker, lighter and better engineered to accept modern thermostat options.

Need some help making the right choices? We’re always open! Contact us today at 705-326-4333 or drop us a line at info@theshockdoctors.ca.