Adding an Electric Heater to a Home Electrical Circuit
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How to Select an Electric Heater for an Existing Circuit: Can I add an electric heater that does not require a new electric circuit or wiring? Options for Installing Electric Heaters: Using an Existing Electrical Circuit, Identify the Electrical Specifications of an Existing Circuit. © By: Dave Rongey |
Electric Heaters and Electrical Circuits
Electrical Question: Can I add an electric heater that does not require a new electric circuit or wiring?
- We will be installing a few Portable Electric heaters and we want to make sure we get the right size heating units.
- We’re looking for portable high efficiency heaters that would plug into a standard 220 air conditioner outlet that is 20 amp.
- We live in an older house and afraid to run too many heaters off the 110 outlets, but the 220 outlets are newer wiring, but we’re having a problem finding a heater that uses that type of plug.
- So far, everything we have found has 30 amp requirements and need a much larger plug and heavier wiring.
- Surely there has to be a heater out there that will plug into a standard 20 amp window air conditioner socket.
Any advice?
Thank you,
Michael
This electrical wiring question came from: Michael, a Homeowner from Atlanta, Georgia.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Michael.
How to Select an Electric Heater for an Existing Circuit
Application: Adding an Electric Heater to an Existing Circuit.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. If a new circuit is required then it is best installed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
NOTE: Work in electrical panels is not recommended for homeowners, non-experienced individuals or non-electricians.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, electric drill, auger bits and extension cord.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and install 220 volt electrical circuit wiring.
Precaution: Identify the main circuit of the panel, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring or installing the 220 volt wiring and circuit breaker.
Notice: Installing a 120 volt or 220volt heater circuit should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Options for Installing Electric Heaters
Guide for Choosing an Electric Heater that Does Not Require New Circuit Wiring
- Using an Existing Electrical Circuit
You may want to consider installing a baseboard heater that has the circuit requirements compatible with the air conditioner circuit or another existing dedicated circuit outlet that is located in the area where the electric heater will be used. - Identify the Electrical Specifications of an Existing Circuit
Check the electrical voltage and amperage rating found on the face of the outlet, or the voltage and size of the circuit breaker that supplies the power. - Energy Efficient Electric Heaters
Baseboard electric heaters are typically more energy efficient and safer than some portable space heaters. - Portable Electric Heaters
Some brands of baseboard heaters provide portable units as well, be sure to check the voltage and amperage requirements. A secure floor stand and built in safety level switch are also great features to look for.
More about Wiring for an Electric Heater
Installing Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard Electric Heater
This baseboard electric heater wiring information with photos and instructions will show you the direct steps to correctly wiring a baseboard wall heater.
Wiring 220 Volt Electrical Outlet
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how electrical outlets for the home are wired.
Electrical Outlets
Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
Home Electrical Codes
Electrical Code Directory covering electrical circuits and electrical wiring methods.
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