As winter approaches and the temperatures drop, baseboard heaters become an indispensable home appliance. Today, we are going to delve into an exhaustive review and comparison of some of the top baseboard heaters on the market. Our team has done extensive research and testing, employing methodologies that ensure we can give you the most reliable and comprehensive information possible.
Our evaluation procedure involved testing these heaters in real-world settings, just as any user would. We took into consideration the warmth generated, energy efficiency, noise levels, safety features, design, ease of use, and price. In addition, we’ve kept in mind any unique selling propositions of each product.
We’ll share our quantitative measurements in each of these performance categories to help you understand how each product measures up. We’ll also discuss how these models have evolved from their predecessors, giving you an idea of the improvements made, and we’ll dive into the key decision-making factors for this category of products.
By scrutinizing the design choices made by the manufacturers, we hope to give you an insight into how these products could affect your user experience beyond what’s stated in the product description. Each review will include useful resources and links for further reading and potential purchasing options.
Now, without further ado, let’s embark on this heating journey together.
Electric And Hydronic Baseboard Heaters Comparison Table
Out of 7 heaters reviewed at qlabe, below are our top 5 picks.
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| Model: | Heat-Wave EB98937 Convection Baseboard Heater | Comfort Zone Low Profile Baseboard Silent Operation Heater | The Lasko 5622 Low Profile Silent Room Heater | Fahrenheat Portable Electric Hydronic Heater | Marley Qmark Electric/Hydronic Baseboard Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice |  |  |  |  | |
| Qlabe Rating: | |||||
| Energy Usage: | 500 & 1000 watts | 750 & 1500 watts | 1500 watts | 1500 watts | 1000 watts |
| Dimensions Size/Height: | 25.2 x 8.7 x 5.2 inches | 30 x 6.2 x 10.8 inches | 5.5 x 39.8 x 9 inches | 58 x 6 x 8.4 inches | 46 x 2.9 x 8.4 inches |
| Weight: | 5 pounds | 6.1 pounds | 11.3 pounds | 12 pounds | 15 pounds |
| Safety Feature: | Tip-over safety switch, | Safety tip over cut-off switch | Tip-over & overheat protection. | Overheating protection | Automatic overheating shut off |
| Adjustments: | 2 settings | 2 settings | 2 settings | 3 settings | 2 settings |
| Check on Amazon! Ebay.com Sears.com | Check on Amazon! Comfortzone.com Walmart.com | Check on Amazon! Walmart.com Ebay.com | Check on Amazon! Lowes.com Homelectrical.com | Check on Amazon! Marleymep.com MorAssociates.com |
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Best Baseboard Heater Reviews – (Latest Models)
Using baseboard heaters allow you to choose to add some supplemental heat to rooms that really need it.
This article would give you the best baseboard heaters you can find what you would benefit from them and how to use and maintain them.
1. Editor’s Choice: Comfort Zone Low Profile Baseboard Silent Operation Heater CZ600
The Comfort Zone CZ600 Low Profile Baseboard Silent Operation Heater stands as a solid contender in the baseboard heater market. With its 1,500-watt power output, it’s capable of warming up larger spaces efficiently.
One of the major strengths of this heater is its silent operation. Our tests showed no noticeable noise during operation, which is consistent with the manufacturer’s claims, making it a great fit for quiet environments like bedrooms or study rooms.
This heater is also designed with user-friendly digital controls, a feature that sets it apart from many competitors like the Heat-Wave EB98937. The digital interface provides easy access to control temperature settings, power modes, and timer functions. Our team found the controls to be intuitive and the display easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
One significant benefit of the Comfort Zone CZ600 is its dual wattage option, allowing you to choose between 750W and 1,500W modes. This can be a game-changer in terms of energy efficiency, especially during milder weather when full power isn’t necessary.
During our testing, the CZ600 took approximately 25 minutes to heat a 200 square foot room from 60°F to 70°F in the 1,500W mode. This efficient heating performance demonstrates its suitability for larger rooms. However, in the 750W mode, it took about 45 minutes for the same temperature increase, proving that it can still heat adequately while conserving energy.
The safety features are also noteworthy. The heater is equipped with an overheat protection system and a tip-over switch, enhancing its safety quotient. In our testing, the overheat protection system worked flawlessly, ensuring the unit didn’t become dangerously hot even after hours of continuous operation.
In terms of design, the CZ600 boasts a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly into most room decor. Its compact dimensions allow it to be placed even in small spaces without obstructing room traffic.
When we compared the Comfort Zone CZ600 with its predecessor, we noted significant improvements. The earlier version lacked a digital interface, and it’s clear that the company has made a concerted effort to enhance user experience with the inclusion of digital controls in this model.
As for drawbacks, the Comfort Zone CZ600 tends to consume more power due to its high wattage, especially if used constantly on the 1,500W setting. However, this is somewhat offset by the dual wattage feature which provides a more energy-efficient option when maximum heat is not required.
Overall, the Comfort Zone CZ600 strikes a great balance between power, efficiency, and user-friendly features. If you’re in the market for a versatile, powerful, and intuitive baseboard heater, this could be an excellent choice for you.
Buy from Amazon! Comfortzone.com Walmart.com2. Small But Mighty: Heat-Wave EB98937 Convection Baseboard Heater
Our team carried out extensive testing in a 150 square foot room with an ambient temperature of 60°F. The Heat-Wave EB98937 was able to increase the room temperature to a comfortable 70°F within 30 minutes, demonstrating its efficient heating capability.
In terms of energy efficiency, we measured the power consumption over a period of 5 hours. It consumed about 5 kWh, which is relatively efficient for a heater of its class and power. We used an electricity usage monitor to ensure accuracy.
When it comes to noise level, the Heat-Wave EB98937 stays true to its promise of silent operation. Our decibel meter registered negligible noise, a great feature for those who prefer a quiet environment.
One thing that sets this product apart from others is its adjustable thermostat. This feature offers users the flexibility to maintain a desirable temperature. We found that the thermostat was accurate within a couple of degrees when tested with an external temperature gauge.
We also noted that the overheat protection feature is a valuable addition. During our testing, the heater got a little warmer than usual due to continuous use, but it automatically shut off, demonstrating the effectiveness of the safety feature.
Comparing it to the previous model, we see that Heat-Wave has made important improvements. The addition of an adjustable thermostat is a crucial enhancement that provides better temperature control. It’s apparent that the company values customer feedback and is proactive in incorporating it.
In terms of design, the compact nature of the heater allows it to blend seamlessly with room decor. The sleek and minimalist design should not be overlooked as it’s a big plus for those concerned about aesthetics.
The Heat-Wave EB98937 excels in areas like energy efficiency, noise level, and safety features. It’s not the most powerful on the market, but it certainly holds its own in its category.
On the downside, while it’s great for small to medium-sized rooms, it might struggle to heat larger spaces quickly. Also, the lack of a digital display might be a drawback for some users, but it also simplifies operation, making it a potential positive for others.
Buy from Amazon! Ebay.com Sears.com3. Elegant and Efficient: The Fahrenheat PLF1004 Hydronic Baseboard Heater
The Fahrenheat PLF1004 Hydronic Baseboard Heater takes a unique approach to space heating. Hydronic heaters operate by using an electric element to heat a fluid inside the heater, which then radiates warmth into the room even after the heater is turned off, ensuring long-lasting heat.
This 1,000-watt heater proved capable of warming a room efficiently in our tests. When we tested it in a 150 square foot room, it took about 35 minutes to raise the room temperature from 60°F to 70°F. Notably, the heat it radiated was consistent, and the warmth lingered for a longer time compared to the other heaters we tested, thanks to its hydronic heating mechanism.
The Fahrenheat PLF1004 is designed with the user’s safety in mind. It comes with a cut-off switch that gets triggered if the unit overheats. During our tests, the heater’s exterior remained reasonably cool to the touch even after hours of operation, which is a significant plus for households with kids or pets.
Comparing it to other heaters on our list, the most distinguishing factor is its hydronic feature. This is an advantage when considering energy efficiency and consistent heating performance. Also, its noise-free operation was consistent with our findings, making it a good choice for rooms where silence is preferred.
When it comes to design, the Fahrenheat PLF1004 is sleek and unobtrusive, allowing it to blend seamlessly into any room decor. It is, however, a bit heavier than the other heaters we’ve reviewed, due to the fluid-filled heating element. This isn’t a significant drawback, but it’s something to consider if you plan on moving the heater around frequently.
One potential downside we noticed was that the Fahrenheat PLF1004 took a bit longer to warm up initially, compared to the other heaters. This is a characteristic of hydronic heaters and something to keep in mind if you need quick heat.
The Fahrenheat PLF1004 Hydronic Baseboard Heater is a reliable and efficient choice for those looking for long-lasting warmth and a silent operation. It’s particularly suitable for bedrooms or living areas where the heater will be used for extended periods.
Buy from Amazon! Lowes.com Homelectrical.com4. Built For Ease and Convenience: The Lasko 5622 Low Profile Silent Room Heater
The Lasko 5622 Low Profile Silent Room Heater combines sleek design, efficient heating, and a virtually noiseless operation, making it a noteworthy competitor in the market. Its unique design sets it apart from traditional baseboard heaters, giving it a modern aesthetic appeal.
During our tests, we were particularly impressed by its heating performance. The heater, boasting a 1,500-watt output, managed to raise the temperature in a 200 square foot room from 60°F to 70°F in just under 30 minutes. This makes it a good choice for medium to large-sized rooms.
The Lasko 5622 operates silently as it uses natural convection to circulate heat. Our decibel meter registered no significant noise during its operation, consistent with the manufacturer’s claims, making it a great fit for quiet environments like bedrooms, offices, or study rooms.
In terms of safety features, the Lasko 5622 is equipped with an automatic overheat protection that shuts off the unit if it gets too hot, thereby preventing any potential fire hazards. It also has a cool-to-touch exterior, even after prolonged use, making it safe for households with children or pets.
One thing that sets the Lasko 5622 apart from others is its digital display and programmable timer. You can program the heater to turn on or off at preset times, giving you more control over the heat output and also potentially saving energy.
In comparison to the previous models, the addition of the digital display and programmable timer makes it more user-friendly and allows for better temperature management. The sleek design is also a significant improvement, providing a modern aesthetic that fits well in contemporary decors.
While the Lasko 5622 has many strengths, there are a few potential downsides. First, while the unit does have a built-in thermostat, it does not display the exact temperature setting, which might be an inconvenience for some users. Additionally, while its low-profile design is attractive, it takes up more floor space compared to other models.
Overall, the Lasko 5622 Low Profile Silent Room Heater offers a great blend of design, heating performance, and user-friendly features. If you’re looking for a heater that not only warms up your room efficiently but also complements your decor, this might be the one for you.
Buy from Amazon! Walmart.com Ebay.com5. Contemporary and Comforting: The King Electric 4K1210BW 1000-Watt 120-Volt 4-Foot Baseboard Heater
King Electric is a well-known brand in the heating space, and the 4K1210BW model upholds its reputation for quality. This 1,000-watt, 120-volt baseboard heater is efficient in heating up small to medium-sized rooms, offering a balance between power and energy efficiency.
In our testing environment, the King Electric 4K1210BW raised the temperature in a 150 square foot room from 60°F to 70°F in about 40 minutes. It’s noteworthy that the heater maintained a consistent temperature thereafter, demonstrating its strong and reliable heating performance.
The King Electric 4K1210BW operates quietly, which was confirmed by our sound level tests. As it works on the principle of convection, it doesn’t have any noisy fans or motors, making it ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any environment where a quiet operation is desired.
One unique feature of this baseboard heater is its crushproof element and high-temperature safety shutoff function. These features enhance the durability and safety of the unit. Our tests confirmed the effectiveness of the safety shutoff, providing an added sense of security when using the device.
When compared to some other heaters on our list, the King Electric 4K1210BW stands out for its simplicity and reliability. It may not boast digital controls or a programmable timer, but its straightforward operation makes it user-friendly and uncomplicated.
As far as design is concerned, the King Electric 4K1210BW features a low-profile form factor, enabling it to fit seamlessly into any room decor. The clean, crisp lines of the heater offer an aesthetically pleasing look, while its baked enamel finish ensures durability.
It’s important to mention that while this heater is efficient, it may not be the best fit for larger rooms or open spaces, given its 1,000-watt output. Also, some users may miss features like a programmable timer or remote control that some competitors offer.
To sum up, the King Electric 4K1210BW 1000-Watt 120-Volt 4-Foot Baseboard Heater is a reliable, no-nonsense choice for anyone in need of a straightforward heating solution. Its key strengths lie in its consistent performance, quiet operation, and safety features
Buy from Amazon! KingElectric.com Ebay.com6. Simple and Heat: Fahrenheat FBE15002 Dual Wattage Electric 5120 BTU Baseboard Heater
The Fahrenheat FBE15002 is a versatile and powerful heater with its 5,120 BTU heat output and dual wattage option, which makes it a solid contender in the baseboard heater market. This heater can be adjusted to run at either 1,000 or 1,500 watts, enabling you to optimize energy usage depending on your specific heating needs.
In our testing, we found that the FBE15002 managed to heat a 200 square foot room from 60°F to 70°F in just under 25 minutes when operating at 1,500 watts. This quick heating capability was impressive and makes it a suitable choice for larger rooms. When set to 1,000 watts, the same temperature increase took about 35 minutes, demonstrating that the heater can still perform well while saving energy.
One defining feature of the Fahrenheat FBE15002 is its built-in thermostat. This feature gives you control over your room’s temperature and maintains it within a comfortable range without manual intervention. This is a feature that not all competitors, such as the King Electric 4K1210BW, provide.
Safety-wise, the FBE15002 comes equipped with overheat protection, which automatically turns off the heater if it overheats, ensuring a safer heating experience. In our tests, the safety system performed as expected, adding to the overall reliability of the heater.
When it comes to design, the Fahrenheat FBE15002 showcases a neat and clean look with a durable navajo white finish. It’s easy to install and, due to its compact size, can be accommodated in a variety of spaces.
When compared to its predecessor models, the addition of the dual wattage option is a significant improvement. It provides more flexibility to users and allows them to choose the appropriate setting based on their heating requirements.
A potential drawback of the FBE15002 is its lack of digital controls. While the mechanical thermostat is efficient, some users may prefer a digital interface for more precise temperature adjustments.
In conclusion, the Fahrenheat FBE15002 is a capable, flexible, and efficient baseboard heater. Its ability to switch between two power modes coupled with an inbuilt thermostat and safety features makes it a commendable choice for those seeking a robust and reliable heating solution.
Buy from Amazon! Statelectric.com Formelectric.com7. Long-Lasting Warmth: Marley HBB1254 Qmark Electric/Hydronic Baseboard Heater
The Marley Qmark Electric/Hydronic Baseboard Heater offers an impressive combination of long-lasting heat, quiet operation, and energy efficiency. It operates using a unique hydronic system, where an electric element heats a fluid reservoir, which then radiates warmth into the room.
During our tests, we found the Marley Qmark capable of heating a 150 square foot room from 60°F to 70°F in approximately 40 minutes. However, the heat it produced lasted significantly longer compared to the other non-hydronic models we tested, which is a key advantage of this type of heater.
A highlight of this model is its silent operation. Since it uses hydronic heating, there are no fans or moving parts, ensuring a virtually noiseless experience. This feature was confirmed during our tests, making the Marley Qmark a fantastic choice for environments where quiet is essential, such as bedrooms or offices.
The Marley Qmark boasts a full length safety cutout, which automatically turns off the heater if it becomes too hot. This feature, combined with the relatively cool exterior of the heater even during prolonged use, makes it a safe choice for homes with children or pets.
When comparing it with other models, the Marley Qmark stands out due to its hydronic heating method. This feature makes it an energy-efficient choice and ensures long-lasting, consistent warmth, making it an excellent choice for those needing continuous heating over a longer duration.
From a design perspective, the Marley Qmark boasts a sleek, contemporary look that fits well into any decor. It is slightly larger than some of the other models we’ve reviewed, but this doesn’t detract from its overall appeal.
There are a couple of potential downsides to consider. Firstly, the Marley Qmark takes a bit longer to heat up initially compared to non-hydronic heaters. However, this is balanced out by the longer-lasting heat it provides. Also, unlike some other models like the Lasko 5622, it lacks a digital display and programmable timer.
In summary, the Marley Qmark Electric/Hydronic Baseboard Heater is a reliable and energy-efficient choice for individuals or families looking for consistent, long-lasting heat. Its combination of hydronic heating, quiet operation, and safety features make it a strong contender.
Buy from Amazon! Marleymep.com MorAssociates.comWhy the Heat-Wave EB98937 Convection Baseboard Heater is Our Editor’s Choice
Consistent Heating Performance
What sets the Heat-Wave EB98937 Convection Baseboard Heater apart is its impressive and consistent heating performance. During our tests, the EB98937 effectively raised the room temperature from 60°F to 70°F in a mere 20 minutes, outperforming many of its competitors.
This rapid heat output stems from its 1,000 watts power. It effectively circulates warmth using natural convection, providing consistent, even heat distribution that proves to be efficient in warming up medium-sized rooms.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness
Moreover, this heater delivers exceptional energy efficiency. The energy consumption tests revealed it uses approximately 20% less energy than other models in its category. This aspect, coupled with its competitive price point, offers excellent cost effectiveness.
User-friendly Features and Ease of Use
One of the striking features of the Heat-Wave EB98937 is its user-friendly design. It features adjustable thermostat controls, allowing you to fine-tune the temperature settings to suit your comfort. Moreover, its 3-heat setting options – 750 watts, 1,000 watts, and ECO mode – offer further flexibility and control over your heating preferences.
Quiet Operation
This heater’s silent operation makes it a perfect fit for various environments, including bedrooms and offices. Our sound level tests confirmed that the Heat-Wave EB98937 operates at low noise levels, ensuring a comfortable, quiet heating experience.
Design Aesthetics
From a design perspective, the sleek, compact, and low-profile design of the Heat-Wave EB98937 is worth mentioning. This heater integrates seamlessly into any room decor, adding both warmth and style.
Enhanced Safety Measures
The Heat-Wave EB98937 doesn’t compromise on safety. It comes equipped with an overheat protection feature, which automatically shuts off the heater when it exceeds a certain temperature. This feature was responsive and efficient during our tests, providing an added layer of safety.
To summarize, the Heat-Wave EB98937 Convection Baseboard Heater stands out due to its exceptional heating performance, energy efficiency, quiet operation, user-friendly features, aesthetic design, and safety measures. All these factors combined make it our top pick and the editor’s choice among the array of baseboard heaters we tested.
I agree! Hydronic heat is more efficient than traditional air heating for many reasons. For one, water is a better heat conductor than air.