Selection criteria and review of the best models of baseboard electric convectors for home heating

A common problem in apartment buildings is warm ceilings and cold floors. Radiators transfer all the thermal energy upward, leaving it cooler below. Therefore, a person’s feet begin to freeze and he feels uncomfortable. However, this problem can be solved; it is enough to install a special convector and the heat will be distributed evenly.

The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best warm skirting boards for 2022.

Device Features

The design is a small radiator that easily fits into a box. In appearance, the device resembles a standard plinth, only slightly thicker. Inside there are heating elements, which, after switching on, transfer heat to the metal body, after which it is further evenly distributed. The coolant can be water or electricity. Each option has a number of advantages and disadvantages. The main design features include:

• Small dimensions and small footprint. Unlike radiator batteries, these devices do not take up much space. Therefore, when it is necessary to carry out repairs, it is not necessary to dismantle the entire heating system. The device is completely invisible, which allows you to correctly distribute the usable space, and if any part fails, it can be replaced without disrupting the operation of the system as a whole.
• Uniform distribution of warm flows. In most apartments where conventional radiators are installed, a common problem is uneven heating of the room. So in some areas it may be too hot, while in another part the heat practically does not reach. All this creates inconvenience. In warm baseboards, which are located around the perimeter of the room, heating occurs quickly and evenly, leaving no cold areas.
• Effect on air flows. At high temperatures, standard heating devices make the air dry, making it difficult for the user to breathe and requiring the room to be ventilated. There is no effectiveness from a constantly open window, since over time it will become too cold and you will have to close it. If such a problem occurs often, it is better to install a warm baseboard; it does not have a negative effect on air masses, which makes the user feel more comfortable.
• High security. Thanks to the high-quality insulating layer, any household appliances and furniture can be installed next to the convector. In this case, there will be no negative impact.
• Electricity costs. Electric radiators consume a large amount of power, but high-quality heating is possible when the temperature is set to maximum. Because at average rates, heat will not spread. This problem is connected with the fact that up to 60% of the energy is spent only on heating certain areas. There is no such problem with warm baseboards; compared to standard models, a person can save up to 30% of electricity, since the room is heated evenly.
• External execution. The buyer is provided with a wide choice of shapes and colors. Therefore, choosing a beautiful model to suit the interior features will not be difficult. The person himself determines what size he needs, which allows him to save money in some areas where heating is not required.

The principle of heating warm baseboards is simple:

• First, the heated air enters the lower parts of the room.
• After this, the heat is distributed along the walls and warms them up. However, the heat does not reach the top, which is not such a big loss.

In addition, due to the fact that a warm baseboard evenly warms up the walls, the chance of mold and mildew forming is minimal. Therefore, you will not have to spend money and time treating these areas with special substances. Traditional models do not have this feature, which is why damp areas are formed in some places, and such an environment is favorable for the development of microorganisms.

However, even such a system has disadvantages that may affect comfortable use:

• High price. To organize a good and high-quality heating system, you need to spend from 10,000 rubles. This cost is associated with the design features of the model, as well as the complexity of production. Therefore, warm baseboards are not yet widely popular. Of course, there are also budget solutions, but they are more designed for apartments with low ceilings, but they are not suitable for penthouses.
• Difficult installation. Most new buildings are sold with pre-installed batteries, so a person does not need to make any effort to install the heating system. Everything is available immediately and does not require time investment. In addition, if the heat is not enough, it is easier to buy an electric radiator and place it in any room. And to install warm baseboards, you need to put in a lot of effort and money, because they consist of a large number of small elements that are connected to each other. If the user does not have experience in installing such systems, then it is unlikely that it will be possible to carry out this work efficiently on their own.
• Nuances after installation. Upon completion of installation work, heat will begin to be effectively distributed and heat the walls. If the latter contains wallpaper, then over time the glue will begin to dry out and the structure will be damaged. The integrity of the material will be compromised, causing swollen areas to appear. The problem can only be solved by gluing new wallpaper, and the substance that ensures adhesion must be resistant to high temperatures. This solution will avoid problems in the future.

What is a baseboard convector

Heating devices that create conditions for natural air convection inside the room are represented by hundreds of models.

They differ from each other:

• design features;
• functionality;
• power consumption and many other parameters.

When choosing such equipment, you often have to either turn a blind eye to the individual characteristics of the device, focusing on the aesthetic design and dimensions of the product, or focus on its technical parameters, leaving out the appearance.

Autonomous heating devices are universal in this regard. They not only provide effective heating of the air in the room, but also look presentable. The miniature dimensions of the devices allow them to be placed at a short distance from the floor and decorated like a regular baseboard.

Device

The first thing that is noticeable when getting acquainted with heaters of this type is the body of the device. Thanks to its size and design, it fits perfectly into the decor of the room and practically does not draw attention to itself.

In reality, this is a well-decorated autonomous heating system, in the body of which the main structural component is located - the heating element. It is represented by an electric heating element or a copper radiator, through the tubes of which water circulates, heated to a certain temperature.

It is when cold air comes into contact with it that the convection movement of air masses, known to us from the school physics course, is triggered. I would like to note that the external design of the heater carries not only an aesthetic, but also a functional load.

The body of the device is equipped with special slotted openings, the task of which is to release heated air outside and take in cold masses inside the convector. Its front panel is equipped with a decorative openwork grille.

This method of technical design is widely used in most modern convection-type heating devices - its upper part emits heat, and the lower part ensures the unhindered penetration of cold air into the heating zone.

Thanks to this design, baseboard autonomous heating not only effectively warms up the interior space, but is also perceived by others as a well-chosen piece of furniture.

How does it work

A convector is a heating device, the operating principle of which is based on the radiation of heat waves, causing the natural movement of air masses of different temperatures inside the heated room.

An electric heating element or heat exchanger located inside the device body heats the air, which, rushing upward, displaces masses of lower temperature to the floor level. Below, when they fall within the range of the device, they heat up and rise again to the ceiling.

Due to natural circulation, the room space gradually reaches the set temperature.

Peculiarities:

1. If the device is equipped with an automatic thermostat, then when the set value is reached, the heating element is switched to an economical mode of operation or is turned off completely.
2. When the temperature drops, the heat supply is resumed, restarting the convection process.

Where is it used?

A baseboard-type convector is a device that is most often used for heating private and commercial premises where it is not possible to use traditional heating options.

These include buildings in which:

• no gas supply is provided;
• There is no possibility to use the central heating system.

The segment of compact heating systems remains in demand among apartment owners in multi-storey buildings.

This is due to the fact that such equipment:

• does not require much space;
• does not clash with the interior of the rooms;
• fully provides heat to the heated area.

Sometimes the need for miniature heating devices arises when you want to get rid of bulky water radiators. In this case, miniature convectors are the most suitable option, since they can be used instead of conventional batteries.

Manufacturers produce models of devices specifically designed to create a microclimate in:

• winter gardens;
• greenhouses;
• greenhouses;
• children's rooms;
• other residential premises of a house or apartment.

They differ in the length of the emitted surface and power.

In a word, baseboard heating systems are universal and can be used in any conditions. If the issue of lack of power of the device does not play a special role for you, then such equipment can well be used as the only source of heating for the room.

pros

We have already noted that the main advantage of baseboard-type convectors is their compactness. The height of such devices ranges from 60 to 250 mm, and the thickness does not exceed 100 mm.

In addition, the distinctive features of such devices include:

• high rate of heating of the room - thanks to the constant circulation of air flows, the room warms up within 20-30 minutes;
• safety during operation - the equipment has reliable protection against accidental contact with heating elements, which allows it to be used even in children’s rooms;
• the ability to create a comfortable temperature in rooms with any ceiling height - conventional heating devices, as a rule, do not warm up the bottom of the room well, the proposed equipment ensures uniform heating of the entire interior space, regardless of its volume.

After installation, the device is decorated with a special casing that looks like a regular baseboard. There are models that, due to their thickness, completely merge with the walls of the room and only emphasize their lower boundaries.

Minuses

There are a number of negative aspects associated with the use of miniature heating devices. With all the abundance of offers of such equipment, baseboard heating systems have two negative characteristics that are directly related to their attractive appearance.

Let's look at them:

• heater power - it depends on its size, the smaller the dimensions of the device, the lower its heat output;
• Quite a decent price - the more compact the device, the higher its price.

A huge offer of models of convection heating devices makes it possible to practically reduce these disadvantages to zero. The lack of power is usually compensated for by proper placement of devices indoors.

In order to avoid unnecessary expenses, buyers give preference to budget-class heating equipment, which, although inferior to expensive convectors in its appearance and technical bells and whistles, is in an affordable price segment.

Varieties of warm skirting boards

There are only two types of convectors in stores. Some run on electrical energy, while others require liquid. To understand which option is suitable for installation, it is important to know the features of each device.

With water coolant

This option is most popular for indoor installation. It can be found both in residential apartments and in office buildings and shopping centers. Almost most European countries prefer to use such models, since their installation takes less time. In addition, it is not necessary to carry out constant maintenance. Good and uniform heating will occur throughout the entire service life.

The water coolant device is a small metal panel. Inside there are small tubes into which the liquid flows, then it is heated to operating temperature. The front and back sides are equipped with insulating material. The main task of the element is to protect walls from high temperatures, which avoids the risk of damage and increases the efficiency of the device.

Another feature of the device is its large selection, which makes it accessible for installation in modern interiors. The equipment is installed not only in living rooms, but also on the balcony or attic. The quality of heating remains at a high level, while the cost of electrical energy is minimal.

Warm baseboards with water coolant have a high heating rate. Because water can easily transfer hot currents. The only thing important to consider is that constant temperature control is required. Otherwise, there is a possibility of breakdown of the entire heating system.

Electric models

If water-heated baseboards are popular due to their easy maintenance and wide choice of designs, electric ones are valued for other reasons:

• Easy to install. The electrical option does not require complex connections; the entire installation process takes place on site. It takes a minimum of time; you only need to attach the heating elements to the wall.
• Control. Most convectors with water do not have special regulators, which makes temperature control difficult. Therefore, a person needs to look for these values ​​in boiler rooms. In electrical systems, everything is simpler, since a special thermostat is installed there, which displays the current readings.
• Possibility of adjustment. Most devices have a special regulator. It allows you to change the temperature up or down. This solution allows you to reduce energy costs.

Despite the positive aspects, there are also disadvantages that affect comfortable use:

• High consumption. Even with a thermostat installed, such equipment consumes a large amount of electricity. Of course, with minimal settings the costs will be small, but there will not be good heating. Therefore, some users refuse such execution.
• Installation nuances. Compared to water-based thermal baseboards, the installation process is less expensive. However, there are a number of features here that do not allow it to be carried out quickly.

Types of baseboard heaters

Before purchasing such a heating system, the consumer must decide on the type of device.

Depending on the type of energy consumed, convectors are divided into two groups:

• electrical;
• aquatic.

The former operate from a standard household power supply system (220 V, 50 Hz), while the latter are connected to gas and solid fuel heating boilers or are used as central heating radiators. Let's look at the features of each of these categories.

Electrical

Models of this type connect to an ordinary room outlet and do not require the use of specific adapters or voltage converters. Such devices are equipped with electric heating elements with a ribbed surface.

The larger the fin area, the more efficiently the air is heated.

The design of the device is quite simple. In addition to an electric heating element, it is equipped with a thermostat with manual or automatic temperature control.

Some models consist of several heating devices with a common control system, which makes it easier to adjust the temperature regime of the heated room and eliminates the need to rebuild each component of the equipment separately.

In order to reduce energy costs, models with an automatic temperature control system in the room are often used. When the programmed value is reached, the automation turns off the heating element or switches it to an economical operating mode. Electricity consumption in this case is reduced by up to 40%.

Thanks to the high temperature of the heating element (up to 110 degrees Celsius), the walls of the room warm up along with the air, which subsequently themselves begin to act as a passive source of radiation of heat waves. In addition, the use of electric heating devices allows, due to the intense movement of warm air flows along the walls and window openings, to cut off the penetration of cold air into the room from the outside.

Mermen

A water baseboard convector is usually used as a component of an autonomous heating system, the operating principle of which is based on the circulation of a liquid coolant. Structurally, such a device is a radiator, inside of which there are copper or brass tubes that provide the flow of water heated to the desired temperature.

The heat source for baseboard heating systems of this design is autonomous boiler equipment powered by:

• natural gas;
• solid fuel;
• electricity.

The assembled equipment looks stylish and compact.

It is placed above the floor covering and decorated with panels made in different colors. For rooms designed in a certain design style, the use of autonomous baseboard water systems is the best option, since they are unnoticeable and fit completely into the interior of the room.

Rating of the best models with water coolant

TurboTech TP1 – water

A high-quality device that makes it possible to create a compact heating system for any room. Air flows are distributed evenly, which creates an optimal microclimate. The box is made of durable aluminum, it prevents negative effects on the walls. The heat exchanger is made of durable stainless steel.

The main advantage of the device is its ability to withstand pressure up to 16 atm. The positive side is simple installation, which takes minimal time and allows you to install the product in every room.

Sold at a price: 3,300 rubles per meter.

TurboTech TP1 – water

Advantages:

• Uniform heat distribution;
• High-quality insulating material;
• Sold in several colors;
• Strength characteristics;
• Low cost.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Mr.Tektum water, brown RAL 8019

A reliable device that guarantees a healthy microclimate in the house. The product is suitable for installation on any floor covering, including parquet and carpet. Thanks to good air flow, no cold spots are formed. The risk of condensation is minimal, which will prevent the development of mold.

When the device operates, the air is not burdened with dust and does not dry out. Therefore it becomes easier to breathe. There is no need to open the floor for installation; everything happens on site. It can be used not as the main, but as an auxiliary heating system.

The average cost is 5,500 rubles per meter.

Mr.Tektum water, brown RAL 8019

Advantages:

• Uniform temperature;
• Strength;
• Does not burden the air with dust;
• Ensuring a healthy microclimate;
• Does not form mold.

Flaws:

• High price.

Charley Standard water, white RAL9003

An efficient heating system that can be installed either as an auxiliary or as a main one. Heating is carried out from the coolant, which comes from an external source, which is the optimal solution and is suitable for most rooms. The walls are heated evenly, eliminating the formation of cold spots and condensation. The device is suitable for installation in old and modern houses.

The outer casing is made of aluminum and PVC. The heat exchanger is made of copper, which guarantees long-term operation. The maximum length of one circuit is 20 meters. Up to 520 ml of water can be placed inside the tubes. The warranty period is 5 years.

Sold at a price: from 8,110 rubles per 2 meters.

Charley Standard water, white RAL9003

Advantages:

• Long warranty;
• Efficiency;
• Fast heating;
• High service life;
• Equipment.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Installation nuances

Electrically heated convectors are easy to install because they do not require coolant supply pipes. The only requirement for such devices to operate effectively is the presence of a separate outlet near each component of the system. In this case, it is desirable that a separate line connected through circuit breakers be used to power the equipment.

Installation of water convectors comes down not only to the installation of heating devices, but also to the laying of connecting pipes, which is associated with certain difficulties. The fact is that the compactness of the equipment and the proximity of its placement to the floor covering requires the use of special tools and certain experience. Otherwise, the installation of such devices is no different from the installation of conventional heating radiators.

Skirting-type convectors are often used in conjunction with other types of heating systems. These can be heated floors, or traditional radiators made of aluminum and cast iron.

Accommodation requirements

There are certain standards for the location of heating devices indoors.

Let's get acquainted with some of them in relation to the equipment we are considering:

• The distance between the floor covering and the components of the heating system must be at least 15-20 mm - otherwise normal air intake will be disrupted.
• Before commissioning water heaters, it is necessary to test the system for leaks at the connections.
• When using electric convectors, it is worth considering in advance the possibility of grounding the device body - this precaution will help to avoid accidental electric shock if the insulation of the heating element breaks down.

You should not place baseboard heating systems in close proximity to cabinet and upholstered furniture - this can lead to deterioration and damage to property.

Rating of the best electric models

Mr.Tektum electric, white RAL 9016

A quality device that guarantees efficiency and durability. The air is distributed around the entire perimeter, creating comfortable conditions for work and rest. The product consists of two copper pipes into which electrical wires are connected. The maximum temperature that can be achieved by adjustment is 250 degrees. The maximum length of one circuit is 12.5 meters.

Sold at price: 10,500 rubles.

Mr.Tektum electric, white RAL 9016

Advantages:

• High service life;
• Strength characteristics;
• Efficiency;
• Maximum temperature – 250 degrees.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

TurboTech TP-2

A new generation electrical device that is suitable for installation in various apartments. The depth of the upper corner is only 20 mm, which makes the device unique. The outer part is made of aluminum, which perfectly distributes air flow without leaving cold areas. The package includes all elements for quick installation.

The average cost is 4,100 rubles per meter.

TurboTech TP-2

Advantages:

• High service life;
• Strength indicators;
• Withstands high temperatures;
• Good heating.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Charley Standard electric, gray RAL9006

Reliable device with thermal power of 340 W. The product is easy to install and durable. Most thermal energy is transferred by radiation rather than by convection, which is a positive result. Operates from a network with a voltage of 220 V. Protection class – II. The heat exchanger is made of carbon steel.

Average price: RUB 11,040.

Charley Standard electric, gray RAL9006

Advantages:

• High-quality heating;
• Possibility of adjustment;
• Strength;
• External execution.

Flaws:

• Not found.

System installation: nuances when installing a skirting system

The tile installation process occurs in several stages:

• first the frame is mounted;
• modules are formed into one system using fittings;
• the system is connected to the collector;
• checking sealing;
• installation of a decorative element.

When installing the skirting system, the following must be taken into account:

• the optimal height for installation is 15 mm, since a smaller gap will reduce the efficiency of the system;
• It is forbidden to install convectors behind upholstered furniture, since it dries out and takes all the heat onto itself;
• you cannot plug them into a standard outlet, as they consume a lot of energy;
• the line for an electric convector must provide grounding and the possibility of automatic shutdown;
• When installing an infrared heater, you should pay attention to the presence of a thermostat, which is better equipped with software control.

As for other points, installing a plinth system is by no means a complicated process, especially when it comes to electric models - it is enough to select a separate power branch. Installing water heaters is similar to installing a standard battery.

Rating of budget models

SAVVA TermoPlintus

A high-quality device intended for installation in residential and public spaces. The product can be used as an auxiliary element or become the main one. It is recommended to install skirting boards around the entire perimeter, because this is the only way to ensure high-quality air circulation.

Sold at a price: from 2,835 rubles.

SAVVA TermoPlintus

Advantages:

• Practicality;
• Good distribution;
• Doesn't consume a lot of energy;
• Reliability.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Infrared-convective baseboard heater P-1T (IP24 B)

A reliable device that is suitable as an auxiliary heating element. It is based on a durable amorphous tape. Thanks to high-quality radiation, not only the air, but also the furniture is heated. Heat is distributed quickly and efficiently. Thermal power – 250 W.

Sold at price: 3,500 rubles.

Infrared-convective baseboard heater P-1T (IP24 B)

Advantages:

• Does not make unnecessary noise;
• Does not dry out the air;
• Easy installation;
• Does not require much space;
• Does not create electromagnetic radiation.

Flaws:

• Not found.

SoftTerm STEP PN-200

A durable device from a Russian manufacturer, which is characterized by low cost and good air flow distribution. Installation will take a minimum of time, since there are no complicated elements. Maximum power – 200 W, operates from a 220 V network. Protection level – IP54.

The average cost is 2,970 rubles.

SoftTerm STEP PN-200

Advantages:

• 8 year warranty;
• Maximum temperature – 75 degrees;
• High degree of protection;
• Durability;
• Economical.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Review of manufacturers and prices

When choosing baseboard autonomous heating systems, the main attention should be paid to the power of the device, its form factor and operational and technical characteristics, among which we can especially highlight the heat transfer of the device and the range of its operating temperatures.

The most interesting manufacturers:

1. If there are no special requirements for heating the room, then you should take a closer look at one of the Russian models. In the most affordable price segment is the electric baseboard heater of the “Koner” series. Its price ranges from 5,000 rubles. This is an acceptable heating option for living rooms or kitchens. The model under consideration is characterized by high heat transfer and accuracy of temperature control.
2. For higher equipment requirements, products from the Canadian brand Dimplex deserve attention. The difference between these systems is ease of management and operation, as well as proven quality and reliability. The company provides a 5-year warranty on all manufactured devices. For example, the LC 4015 WRU model, with very compact dimensions - 1016 x 169 x 60 mm - is capable of producing 1.5 kW of thermal energy. The price of the option under consideration is slightly higher than the previous one, but is quite affordable for the average consumer. It is about 5.7 thousand rubles.

Prices for baseboard convectors from different manufacturers

baseboard heater

Baseboard heating systems have already occupied their strong and reliable niche in the heating equipment market. The use of autonomous devices to ensure comfortable temperature conditions in residential and commercial premises in many cases is the only optimal solution. For a wood-burning stove for your home, you will find the answer in the link.