Baseboard Heater Electric Circuit
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What Size Circuit Does a Baseboard Heater Need to Have? Electrical Circuit Requirements for a Baseboard Heater. © By: Dave Rongey |
Electrical Circuit for a Baseboard Heater
Electrical Question: Can I simply pull out a 120v outlet and use the wiring for a 120v baseboard heater?
- I am wondering if I could simply pull out a 120V outlet and use the wiring for a 120volt baseboard heater?
- I would like to add a baseboard heater to my mudroom and already have an unused outlet in the mudroom.
- I’m thinking I can simply disconnect the outlet and re run the wires for a 120 baseboard heater.
- Could anyone please give advise on whether this is, or is not recommended?
Thank you much for your time.
This electrical wiring question came from Phil, in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Additional Comments: Great site.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Phil.
Circuit Requirements for a Baseboard Heater
Application: Wiring a 120 Volt baseboard Heater Circuit.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best installed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or Certified Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and install electrical circuit wiring.
Precaution: Identify the panel circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional electrical circuit wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Electrical Circuit for a 120 Volt Baseboard Heater
Baseboard heaters come in a variety of sizes, therefore the specific electrical circuit requirement will depend on the baseboard heater that is selected. Because of the amount of electrical consumption required for electric heating units a dedicated circuit is typically installed.
Note: 240 volt baseboard heating units will perform better than 120 volt units because they will heat faster and use the electrical power more efficiently.
- Determine the Baseboard Heater Size that is Needed for Your Application
- How large is the room or area?
- Are there any obstacles that will interfere with the installation and operation of the heater?
- Electrical Panel Capacity
- Does the electrical panel have the capacity for the additional circuit load?
- Is there available space in the electric panel for an additional circuit breaker.
More about Baseboard Heaters
- Installing Baseboard Electric Heaters
- Sizing and Installing Baseboard Electric Heaters with Detailed Step-by-Step Pictures and Instructions.
- Chart shows how to plan for your baseboard heating unit.
- Electrical Wire for the Home
- Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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