Should you call an electrician to install an electric heater?
Electric heat, known for its affordability and simplicity, provides a practical solution for heating homes and spaces.
As it operates on a rather straightforward mechanism, it’s become an accessible option for many homeowners.
Electricity addresses several issues associated with traditional heating methods. One of the primary advantages of electric heat is its simplicity and affordability. Unlike other heating sources that require complex systems or fuel storage, electric heat operates on a straightforward mechanism, where electricity generates heat directly. This eliminates the need for a fuel source and the associated costs and maintenance.
Compared to traditional heating methods like oil or gas, electric heat offers greater control and flexibility. With electric baseboard heaters, for example, homeowners create separate heating zones with the help of localized thermostats. This level of control translates to energy savings by avoiding unnecessary heating of unoccupied spaces.
Another advantage of electric heat is its cleanliness and environmental friendliness. Electric heating systems produce no emissions or pollutants, making them a more sustainable choice compared to fossil fuel-based heating sources. This aligns with the increasing focus on reducing carbon footprints and transitioning to more eco-friendly solutions.
Electric Baseboard Heaters
Electric baseboard heaters closely resemble hot water baseboard heaters and offer a comparable level of heat output per foot. They are relatively inexpensive to install when compared to hot water baseboard heaters.
One perk of electric baseboard heaters is the ability to create separate zones by using localized thermostats on each heater or nearby. In other words, you can choose to heat only certain rooms or areas of your home, allowing for more control and potentially saving on energy costs.
However, it’s worth noting that electric baseboard heaters do not distribute heat evenly throughout a room. The hot air naturally rises and accumulates near the ceiling, leaving the lower portion of the room cooler. This can be remedied by incorporating additional heating methods, i.e., portable space heaters or a central heating system.
Do Electric Baseboard Heaters Require A Professional Electrician?
These heaters, while operating silently and taking minimal space, do require professional installation. As they involve electrical wiring, hiring a licensed electrician makes sense as this guarantees the safety and proper functioning of the heaters.
A would-be issue with a DIY installation of an electric baseboard heater is that it might not meet local building codes. For example, regulations state that baseboard heaters must be hard-wired using a dedicated circuit and not simply plugged into an outlet. Violations of these codes can lead to safety hazards.
In-Wall Forced Air Heaters
In-wall forced air heaters are a sensible choice for quickly heating small spaces. Similar to electric baseboard heaters, they take full advantage of heating coils to function. The difference is that in-wall forced air heaters have an added feature – a fan that draws the hot air from the coils and blows it into the space. This allows for efficient and rapid heating of a specific area using just one unit. In other words, there is no more need for baseboards throughout the room.
The one downside of this type of electric heat is the noise emanating from the fan. This is normal as it blows air through the space, but it can be not very pleasant for some individuals.
You may choose specific models that come with built-in thermostats or purchase them separately. The point is that you can control the heat in a specific room separately. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to use this type of electric heater as a backup system or add-on to their central heating system.
Do You Need An Electrician To Install An In-Wall Forced Air Heater?
Since there’s electrical wiring involved, it’s recommended to have a licensed electrician install in-wall forced air heaters. To be specific, the wiring must be done in a way that meets electrical codes and standards for safe operation. The need for ventilation is another crucial aspect that must be considered during installation; hence, it is important to have a professional do it.
Electric Unit Heaters
Electric unit heaters are an ideal choice for larger spaces with higher ceilings. The list of structures includes garages, gyms, warehouses, and workshops, among others. They operate using a fan that blows air over heating coils, producing hot air that is then dispersed throughout the space.
As mentioned earlier, these heaters are ideal for larger spaces as they can heat a larger area at once. If you have high ceilings in your home or require quick heating in large spaces, electric unit heaters may be the way to go.
These heaters are typically mounted on walls or ceilings using brackets and blow hot air downwards into the space. The number of heaters required in a specific area is calculated based on square footage to ensure optimal heating coverage.
Electric unit heaters are specifically designed to quickly heat large spaces, a capability that no other electric heating method can match. But then again, they use large fans to efficiently distribute heat, which in turn requires more energy and produces more noise.
Do You Need An Electrician To Install Electric Heaters?
Due to the complexity of wiring and mounting these heaters, it is highly recommended to have an electrician install them. These heaters require a dedicated electrical circuit to handle the power load. This involves intricate electrical connections and calculations to ensure compatibility with the existing electrical system.
Only an experienced electrician can correctly assess the electrical capacity, determine the appropriate circuitry, and safely install the unit heater, guaranteeing compliance with electrical codes and regulations.
Final Thoughts on Installing An Electric Heater
When you call Gladiator Electric to install your electric heater you’re investing in safety, efficiency, and expertise. With our team of licensed professionals, commitment to high-quality workmanship, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we ensure a seamless installation process tailored to your specific needs. Electric heaters are a modern, energy-efficient solution for year-round comfort, and Gladiator Electric is here to make sure your system is installed safely and performs at its best. Trust us to deliver warmth, reliability, and peace of mind to your home or business.
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