Photo: Cadet
For those that live in smaller houses where spending money on a central whole-house heating system does not make economic sense, finding the best electric baseboard heater should be a priority.
Baseboard heaters, just as their name implies are types of heater that are installed on or near the baseboard, and they are designed to heat the room from the ground which is where the cold air tends to settle, and they do this using convection heating.
These heaters offer the benefits of efficient single room heating, easy installation, quiet operation, and more energy efficiency. And to help you find a good one, here we review 10 of the best-rated models and also explain the factors to consider when shopping.
In this post:
- 10 Best Electric Baseboard Heaters – Review
- 1. Cadet 09956 – Best Overall
- 2. Cadet 05532 – Best Budget Baseboard Heater
- 3. Cadet 09954 – Sturdy and Dependable
- 4. KING 4K1210BW – Silent and Effective Heating
- 5. Fahrenheat PLF1004 – Safe and Energy-Efficient
- 6. Fahrenheat FHP1500TA – Highly Portable Electric Baseboard Heater
- 7. Cadet 2F500-1W – Durable and Practical
- 8. Marley HBB1254 – Low Profile Heater with Universal Wiring
- 9. Fahrenheat PLF1504 – Gentle and Steady Heating
- 10. Dimplex LC6025W31 – Powerful Heater with Wide Coverage
- How to Buy the Best Electric Baseboard Heaters
- Conclusion
10 Best Electric Baseboard Heaters – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Cadet 09956 (Best Overall) |
| |
 | 2. Cadet 05532 (Best Budget) |
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 | 3. Cadet 09954 (Sturdy & Dependable) |
| |
 | 4. KING 4K1210BW (Silent & Effective Heating) |
| |
 | 5. Fahrenheat PLF1004 (Safe & Energy-Efficient) |
| |
 | 6. Fahrenheat FHP1500TA (Highly Portable) |
| |
 | 7. Cadet 2F500-1W (Durable & Practical) |
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 | 8. Marley HBB1254 (Low Profile with Universal Wiring) |
| |
 | 9. Fahrenheat PLF1504 (Gentle & Steady) |
| |
 | 10. DIMPLEX LC6025W31 (Powerful with Wide Coverage) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Cadet 09956 (Best Overall)
|
2. Cadet 05532 (Best Budget)
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3. Cadet 09954 (Sturdy & Dependable)
|
4. KING 4K1210BW (Silent & Effective)
|
5. Fahrenheat PLF1004 (Safe & Energy-Efficient)
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6. Fahrenheat FHP1500TA (Highly Portable)
|
7. Cadet 2F500-1W (Durable & Practical)
|
8. Marley HBB1254 (Low Profile with Universal Wiring)
|
9. Fahrenheat PLF1504 (Gentle & Steady)
|
10. DIMPLEX LC6025W31 (Powerful with Wide Coverage)
|
1. Cadet 09956 – Best Overall
Photo: Cadet
- Power: 240V, 1500W
- Size: 72 inches
- Coverage: 200 sq. ft.
Being the longest model on our electric baseboard heater review, you can be confident that this 72-inch unit by Cadet will provide a relatively larger coverage. And it does not disappoint as it can heat up to 200 square inches which for its price is fantastic.
The heater is built to make DIY installation easy as it will come with pre-punched knockouts with intervals of 1-inch, and with universal wiring on either end to ensure it can work for almost any home.
Safety is guaranteed by the high-temperature safety shutoff function that will ensure you will never have to worry about the unit overheating. To crown it all, it is made to be highly durable and with a powder-coated finish to prevent scratches.
While this electric baseboard heater seems to take a little longer to heat up than other top models, once it gets to the optimum temperature it still heats the room efficiently enough. And most users will hardly even notice the extra time it takes to heat up.
Pros:
- Provides a relatively wider coverage
- Quick and easy installation
- Universal wiring for user convenience
- Scratch-resistant powder-coated finish
- High-temperature safety shutoff
Cons:
- Seems to take a little longer to warm up
2. Cadet 05532 – Best Budget Baseboard Heater
Photo: Cadet
- Power: 120V, 750W
- Size: 36 inches
- Coverage: 125 sq. ft.
If you are shopping on a small budget, the 750-watt Cadet 05532 will be a perfect choice as it is the cheapest unit on our list.
Despite being affordable, it still maintains the performance and quality that baseboard heaters from Cadet are famous for. It features 25-gauge steel construction and a powder-coated finish to ensure long service life.
Installing this 36-inch long baseboard heater is also a more straightforward affair as it will include pre-punched knockouts and universal wiring on either side.
There does not seem to be an off switch on this unit, which for some users might be a significant drawback, but with this unit, the temperature settings are often enough for easy use.
Pros:
- Relatively more affordable
- Long-lasting steel construction
- Straightforward installation with universal wiring
- Powder-coated finish resists scratches and nicks
Cons:
- No off switch
3. Cadet 09954 – Sturdy and Dependable
Photo: Cadet
- Power: 240V, 1000W
- Size: 48 inches
The sturdy feel is what sets this electric baseboard heater apart from the many others out there, and it stems from the use of the 25 gauge steel in its construction.
This UL listed heater is highly dependable as it uses a steel sheathed heating element that includes aluminum fins to ensure fast and efficient heat up. Also, this unit is safe to use as it will never overheat since it has a high temperature shut off for safety.
You can wire this baseboard heater on either side, which makes it quite convenient, and installing it will be more straightforward as it comes with pre-punched mounting holes.
This electric baseboard heater seems to be a little louder than others but the noise that it makes it a soothing rhythmic sound that will not distract your sleep. And, while the heating element seems to be more exposed this is still a safe enough heater.
Pros:
- Durable, heavy-gauge steel built
- Convenient universal wiring
- Pre-punched for easy installation
- Safer to use design
Cons:
- Can be a little too loud
- Heating element is exposed in some sections
4. KING 4K1210BW – Silent and Effective Heating
Photo: KING
- Power: 120V, 1000W
- Size: 48 inches
- Coverage: 75 sq. ft.
Even with the most efficient electric baseboard heater, you will still not get the service you need if the unit makes too much noise as you cannot sleep comfortably. Hence, the fact that the KING 4K1210BW produces very little sound when in operation makes it a fantastic pick.
This unit is made from industrial strength material and with a dent-proof cover and a crushproof element that will offer many years of excellent service.
With wiring on both sides and pre-punched mounting holes, this will be a more straightforward electric baseboard heater to install and almost anyone can set it up with a little time to spare.
Safety is ensured by the full-length safety cutout that will ensure the heater switches off immediately it reaches high temperatures.
This electric baseboard heater will not come with a thermostat, but this should hardly be a significant concern given its smaller price tag. Furthermore, you can easily get a thermostat for a few bucks.
Pros:
- Quieter operation
- Industrial strength materials
- High-temperature shutoff
- Easy to install with wiring on either side
- Dent-resistant cover and crushproof element
Cons:
- Does not come with a thermostat
5. Fahrenheat PLF1004 – Safe and Energy-Efficient
Photo: Fahrenheat
- Power: 240V, 1000W
- Size: 46 inches
- Coverage: 100 sq. ft.
If safety is your main concern when shopping for an electric baseboard heater, the Fahrenheat PLF1004 is a perfect pick as its hydronic design means the surface will remain cool to touch even when at the highest settings. This makes it ideal for use around kids and pets.
To make it an even safer model, it has efficient overheat protection that minimizes the likelihood of ever overheating even when the air intake is blocked.
Because it will not have any unnecessary on and off cycles, this will be a more energy-efficient baseboard heater, and it is also designed to deliver a quieter operation as it does not make any disruptive sounds when starting or stopping.
The low profile design will ensure this baseboard heater looks good anywhere you place it whether it is in the bedroom or living room.
Installing this electric baseboard heater is a little more complex than what most users would like given the hydronic design, but DIY installation is still possible if you follow the instructions keenly.
Pros:
- Surface remains cool to touch during operation
- Starts and stops are less noisy
- No unnecessary on and off for energy efficiency
- Reliable overheat protection
- Low profile design
Cons:
- Installation is a little more complex
6. Fahrenheat FHP1500TA – Highly Portable Electric Baseboard Heater
Photo: Fahrenheat
- Power: 120V, 1500W
- Size: 58 inches
- Coverage: 150 sq. ft.
If you plan to be using your electric baseboard heater in different rooms, a more portable model like Fahrenheat FHP1500TA will be a good buy. And to make it even a better choice, it can plug easily into any room as it uses a standard 120-volt plug.
Using this electric baseboard heater is much safer when compared to other models as its hydronic design means the surface will remain cool to touch even when at the highest settings.
Also, there are no annoying popping or pinging sounds when switching the heater on or off which ensures quieter operation.
Because there are no unnecessary on or off cycles, this will be a more energy-efficient heater. And it provides a fanless operation to ensure no dander or allergen is flying around.
This baseboard heater has some sharp metal edges which can be a little dangerous, but this does not affect the overall performance of the unit. Also, the absence of an off switch should not be a deal-breaker as you will only need to keep it at the lowest setting when you do not need it to heat the room.
Pros:
- More portable and easy to mount
- Relatively quieter operation
- Surface remains cool to the touch
- Highly energy efficient
- Fanless for dander and allergen-free operation
Cons:
- Sharp metal edges
- No off button/switch
7. Cadet 2F500-1W – Durable and Practical
Photo: Cadet
- Power: 120V, 500W
- Size: 30 inches
- Coverage: 50 sq. ft.
The highly durable metal build means that the Cadet 2F500-1W is the kind of baseboard heater that you will have around for a long time. Many users will appreciate the more practical design as it means the heater can work for a variety of situations.
With the pre-punched knockouts, this will be an easy electric baseboard heater to install, and it will come with universal wiring for even more convenience when it comes to installation.
This heater comes with a thermal cutoff device to ensure safer operation by eliminating the risk of overheating. And this model is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
The 50 square foot coverage is one of the smallest on our list, but for the price of this heater, it is good enough, and hence this is still one of the best small electric baseboard heaters. Also, it is still sufficient for most bedrooms. Although there is only one heat setting, in many instances it will be all you need.
Pros:
- Highly durable metal construction
- Practical design works for almost any situation
- Easy and low-cost installation
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Only one heat setting
8. Marley HBB1254 – Low Profile Heater with Universal Wiring
Photo: Marley
- Power: 240V, 1250W
- Size: 58 inches
Modern electric baseboard heaters like the Marley HBB1254 are built to ensure you will not be limited to using them from just one place. This heater comes in a low-profile design that will make it suitable for almost any room from bedrooms and living rooms to bathrooms.
Also, it will feature universal wiring to further make it ideal for various rooms as you can wire it from either side which is always very convenient.
This electric baseboard heater provides a smooth and steady warmth, and it will heat up relatively faster when compared to others out there. Also, this is a quieter unit as it does not make any annoying noises when starting or stopping, and it will continue heating the room even when the thermostat shuts off.
Although the mounting holes are not cut out, there are clear marks on where they should be, and so with the appropriate tool, it should be super easy to cut them out. While this is the priciest unit on our list, it will still offer value for money with heating efficiency and durability.
Pros:
- Low-profile design to suit most rooms
- Universal wiring allows it to be wired on either side
- Smooth and steady warmth
- Noise-free starts and stops
- Will still heat room even when thermostat shuts off
Cons:
- Mounting holes are not cut out
- Relatively expensive
9. Fahrenheat PLF1504 – Gentle and Steady Heating
Photo: Fahrenheat
- Power: 240V, 1500W
- Size: 70 inches
- Coverage: 150 sq. ft.
You can hardly ever go wrong with Fahrenheat as they are one of the most reputable electric baseboard heater and other heater type manufacturers. And when you need something that delivers gentle but steady heating, their model PLF1504 will be a good buy.
Because this heater uses hydronic design, it will be safe to use around kids and pets as its surface is designed to remain cool to the touch even when operating at the maximum heat settings.
The conveniently low-profile design also helps cement its place as one of the best electric hydronic baseboard heaters as it allows it to suit almost any room. And besides being highly energy-efficient, it is built to deliver a worry-free operation thanks to the overheat protection feature.
The access panel opens to the side, which in some situations can make it impossible to use. But, provided you do not install the baseboard heater on a corner, this will hardly be an issue.
Pros:
- Heats steadily and gently
- Safe for use around kids and pets
- Conveniently low-profile
- More energy-efficient operation
Cons:
- Side opening access panel is not very convenient
10. Dimplex LC6025W31 – Powerful Heater with Wide Coverage
Photo: Dimplex
- Power: 240V, 2500W
- Size: 60 inches
- Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
Dimplex LC6025W31 is the most powerful heater on our electric baseboard heater review. This 2500-watt unit delivers enough heat to cover up to 250 square feet, which means it provides the widest coverage on our list.
Besides the higher heat output and wide coverage, this unit comes in a more space-saving design to ensure it does not take up a lot of room. Also, it has pre-punched mount holes to allow for quick and easy installation, and it can be wired from either end.
Overall, it has been built to last for a long time as it will feature durable all-metal construction and with a good polyester and epoxy coating that resist fading.
You can be confident that this heater will help maintain the desired temperature as it is designed to respond quickly to any changes in the room temperature.
Many users seem to prefer a heater that can work with remote control as they are easy to operate, and so the fact that this one cannot work with one can be a drawback for some. But, for the price of this unit, and given its efficient heating, this should not be a deal-breaker.
Pros:
- Higher power output for wider coverage
- Quick and easy installation
- Durable material and finish
- Quick response to temperature changes
Cons:
- Does not work with remote control
How to Buy the Best Electric Baseboard Heaters
Photo: Cadet
Here are some of the key things to consider when shopping for a good electric baseboard heater.
1. Power
Power is the first and perhaps most important element that you need to look for when shopping for an electric baseboard heater as it will affect everything else.
The power that you will need will, however, depend on the size of the room that you want to heat. For larger rooms, something with at least 1,500 watts or more like Fahrenheat FHP1500TA will be perfect.
If you have a medium-size or small room, something with even 500 watts like the Cadet 2F500-1W can still work well enough.
2. Your Room
The size, shape and overall outlay of your room also matter a lot when it comes to choosing an electric baseboard heater as you need something that can work for your particular situation.
Hence, before settling for any model, you need to have an idea of the size of your room to ensure that you pick a model that provides sufficient coverage.
In many instances, you will be better off sticking to models with wide coverage like the 250 square-feet covering Dimplex LC6025W31 than something with a smaller coverage as it will not be very useful.
3. Silent Operation
While the electric baseboard heater offers a generally quieter operation when compared to the central heating system, the level of noise that you get will differ from one model to the other.
You will want to get a model that offers super quiet operation, and this is more so if you will be using it in the bedroom because a noisy one will make it harder for you to sleep.
And when looking at the noise that the unit makes, you need to consider both when it is at the lowest and highest setting because while some might be silent in the lower settings they can be super loud at the higher ones.
4. Overheat Protection
Given that these heaters are designed to generate heat, it should be obvious that they will be more prone to overheating than many other household appliances.
Hence, as you shop for the best electric baseboard heater it is crucial to ensure that the model you choose has an overheat protection.
Overheat protection is a vital safety feature meant to ensure the unit will not run when it overheats to protect it from damages and most importantly to prevent fire accidents.
5. Auto Thermostat
A thermostat plays a crucial role in any home heating system, and so when shopping for an electric baseboard heater you need to not only make sure it has one but also comes with the more modern automatic ones.
An automatic thermostat will adjust the heat output automatically just like what you get in most modern central heating systems.
This thermostat will ensure the temperature in the house is always just right and will also eliminate the need to keep the unit running when it is not required and hence conserving energy.
6. Installation
Because electric baseboard heaters will need some installation, you need to make sure that whatever you choose will give you an easy time when it comes to installation.
While it is always sensible to call in a professional to install the baseboard heater for you if you are not confident that you have the skills required to install the baseboard heater, DIY installation is still possible.
A model that comes with all the hardware and fixtures you need and detailed, easy to follow instruction will be ideal for DIY installation. But, if you are not sure what to do it will be safer to leave it to a professional.
7. Durability
To ensure that you get value for your money, the electric baseboard heater that you but needs to be durable enough.
Durability will stem from the material used to make the heater and also how the parts are joined. A unit with a mostly metal construction and heavy-duty plastic will be the most durable.
For a long service life, you should avoid those made from thinner and flimsy plastic materials.
Conclusion
Nothing beats the efficiency of the electric baseboard heater when it comes to heating single rooms, and with our reviews above finding a good model should be more effortless.
While every model in the list is top-notch, the Cadet 09956 takes the top overall spot as it offers a high heat output, wide enough coverage and it is quite fairly priced.
But, if you prefer something more affordable with a decent heat output, heavy-gauge construction, and more practical design, the budget-friendly Cadet 05532 is what we recommend.