Replace Wall Heaters? Here’s What You NEED to Know!

Replacing Wall Heaters: A Comprehensive Guide

Thinking about replacing those old, inefficient wall heaters? This guide breaks down everything you need to consider before you start, ensuring you make the right choices for your home and budget.

1. Assessing Your Current Wall Heaters

Before you jump into replacing them, take a moment to understand what you’re working with.

1.1. Identifying the Type of Wall Heater

There are a few common types:

• Electric Resistance Heaters: These are the most common. They use a coil to generate heat.
• Convection Heaters: These heat the air, which then circulates throughout the room.
• Fan-Forced Heaters: These use a fan to blow air over a heating element, distributing heat quickly.
• Radiant Heaters: These emit infrared radiation, heating objects and people directly.

Understanding the type you have will help you choose an appropriate replacement.

1.2. Evaluating Performance and Efficiency

• Heating Effectiveness: Are your current heaters adequately warming the rooms?
• Energy Consumption: Are you seeing high energy bills?
• Age and Condition: Are they old, rusty, or showing signs of wear and tear?
• Safety Concerns: Are there any exposed wires, sparking, or other safety hazards?

Answering these questions will help you justify the replacing wall heaters project.

2. Reasons for Replacing Wall Heaters

Understanding the benefits will motivate your project and help you make informed decisions.

2.1. Increased Energy Efficiency

Newer models are often much more energy-efficient, saving you money on your energy bills. Consider Energy Star-rated models.

2.2. Improved Safety Features

Modern wall heaters come with improved safety features like overheat protection and tip-over sensors.

2.3. Enhanced Comfort and Control

Many new heaters offer features like thermostats, timers, and remote control for better temperature management.

2.4. Modernized Aesthetics

Replacing old, unsightly heaters can significantly improve the look of your rooms.

3. Choosing the Right Replacement

Selecting the correct new heater is crucial for satisfaction and efficiency.

3.1. Heater Type Considerations

Here’s a table comparing heater types suitable for replacing wall heaters:

Heater Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Convection	Quiet, even heat distribution	Slower to heat up	Bedrooms, living rooms
Fan-Forced	Rapid heating	Can be noisy, may dry out the air	Bathrooms, smaller rooms
Radiant	Direct, efficient heating	Heats objects directly, not the air; can cause hot spots	Garages, workshops, supplemental heat
Smart/WiFi Enabled	Remote control, programmable schedules, energy monitoring	Higher initial cost	Tech-savvy users, optimizing energy consumption

3.2. Size and Wattage

• Square Footage: Match the heater’s wattage to the room size. A general rule of thumb is 10 watts per square foot.
• Insulation: Poorly insulated rooms will require more wattage.
• Climate: Colder climates will require higher wattage heaters.

Consult a heating professional for more precise sizing. Incorrect sizing can lead to inefficient heating and increased energy costs after replacing wall heaters.

3.3. Features to Look For

• Thermostat: Allows you to set and maintain a consistent temperature.
• Timer: Lets you program the heater to turn on and off at specific times.
• Remote Control: Adds convenience for adjusting settings from across the room.
• Overheat Protection: Automatically shuts off the heater if it gets too hot.
• Tip-Over Sensor: Automatically shuts off the heater if it’s knocked over.

3.4. Brands and Models

Research reputable brands and read reviews before making a purchase. Compare features, warranties, and customer feedback.

4. Installation Process

Consider whether you can handle the installation yourself or need a professional electrician.

4.1. DIY vs. Professional Installation

• DIY: If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work and understand safety precautions, you may be able to install the heater yourself. Always turn off the power at the breaker before starting.
• Professional: If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s best to hire a qualified electrician. They can ensure the heater is installed safely and correctly. Improper installation can lead to fire hazards.

4.2. Step-by-Step Installation Guide (General Outline)

Note: Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific heater model. This is a general outline and should not replace professional advice.

1. Turn off the power at the breaker to the circuit supplying the old heater.
2. Remove the old heater: Carefully disconnect the wires, noting their positions.
3. Prepare the wiring: Ensure the wires are in good condition and properly sized for the new heater.
4. Mount the new heater: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the heater to the wall.
5. Connect the wiring: Connect the wires according to the wiring diagram provided with the new heater. Typically, this involves connecting the black (hot) wire, white (neutral) wire, and green or bare copper (ground) wire.
6. Test the installation: Turn the power back on at the breaker and test the heater to ensure it’s working correctly.

4.3. Safety Precautions

• Always turn off the power before working with electrical wiring.
• Use appropriate safety gear, such as insulated gloves and safety glasses.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• If you’re unsure about any part of the process, hire a qualified electrician.

5. Cost Considerations

Plan for all the expenses involved in replacing wall heaters.

5.1. Cost of the New Heater

Heater prices vary widely depending on the type, size, features, and brand. Research and compare prices before making a purchase.

5.2. Installation Costs

• DIY: The main cost is the price of the heater itself.
• Professional: Electrician fees can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and your location. Get quotes from multiple electricians before hiring one.

5.3. Long-Term Energy Savings

Factor in the potential energy savings from a more efficient heater. This can offset the initial cost of the replacement over time.

6. Maintaining Your New Wall Heater

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your new heater and ensure it operates efficiently.

6.1. Regular Cleaning

• Dust: Regularly dust the heater to prevent dust buildup, which can reduce efficiency and pose a fire hazard.
• Grilles: Clean the grilles to ensure proper airflow.

6.2. Inspecting for Damage

Periodically inspect the heater for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose wires, or corrosion.

6.3. Professional Servicing

Consider having your heater professionally serviced every few years to ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently.

So, whether you’re upgrading for efficiency or just plain tired of that old unit, we hope this gave you some helpful pointers for replacing wall heaters. Happy heating!