The Dangers of Baseboard and Wall Heaters

There are loads of heating options for the homeowner to choose from these days. Each has its pros and cons. You need a heating system that can keep your family warm and safe. However, some heating systems can be quite hazardous.

What is Baseboard Heating?

Baseboard heating units are usually installed near the floor underneath windows. They typically run on electric and function similar to an electric furnace, but without using ducts since it will only heat the air around it. Sounds great, right? Sure, but there are things you need to keep in mind.

Burn Risk

Baseboard and wall heaters generate heat, as opposed to a ductless mini-split, which merely transfers heat. Due to this attribute, baseboard heaters need to get extremely hot to heat a room. This ovenlike heat can be dangerous, especially for children. People have even suffered burns from these types of heaters, as they can easily reach 150 degrees or more while they run. Unfortunately, because they are installed low to the ground, a child can accidentally touch it, or an adult can brush their leg against it while walking by it.

Fire Risks

An extremely hot appliance in your room is always going to be a fire risk. Baseboard installers assure their customers that everything will be fine as long as you observe the “6-inch rule” and always leave clearance between the heater and anything else. This “rule” is excellent in theory, but life isn’t lived in theory. In reality, someone will likely move a couch against a wall or forget to clean up their toys or set their laundry down to answer the phone. All it takes is for one of these scenarios to occur for something to go seriously wrong with your unit or even cause a home fire. It’s just not worth the risk.

But What If I Still Want Zone Heating?

A ductless mini-split installation has the best of both worlds. You are getting the customization and efficiency of a single room heater, but you’re also getting a system that won’t be dangerous to your family. Mini-splits do not get hot because they are not generating heat. Instead, they are extracting heat from the outside air and bringing it inside. Additionally, they can perform this process in reverse to function as an air conditioner!

If you think you want to install a ductless mini-split, call us at Oregon Ductless Heroes at (503) 755-5332 or fill out an online contact form!