How Much Does It Cost to Install an Electric Baseboard Heater in 2025?
The average cost of electric baseboard heater installation is $973
The cost to install an electric baseboard heater ranges from $118 to $4,000, with most homeowners spending an average of $973.
The total cost depends on the amount and type of heaters you install, labor rates, permit fees, and the thermostat cost.
You’ll also need to budget for maintenance costs and potential overage fees.
Hiring a professional installer ensures your electric baseboards are safely and correctly installed for efficient and long-lasting use.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing electric baseboard heaters costs most homeowners $973, with average prices ranging between $416 and $1,531. Your total costs depend on factors like the size and heating power of the unit—low-powered models start at $200, while high-powered models can reach up to $1,100. This price includes the heater, installation materials, and labor for hiring a local electrician.
Electric Baseboard Heater Cost Factors
Several factors affect the cost of installing an electric baseboard heater, including the unit cost, labor, permit fees, and room size. Understanding these can help you budget effectively for your project.
Unit Cost
Electric baseboard heaters range from $40 to $650, depending on size and wattage. You'll likely need more than one heater for large rooms or to heat your whole home. For example, if you have a 1,500-square-foot house, you might need at least 10 heaters, totaling between $400 and $6,500.
Labor
Labor is a significant part of the installation cost. Electricians charge between $75 and $250 per hour, and installing one unit takes about four hours. That means you'll pay between $390 and $1,190 for labor. If you're installing multiple heaters, labor costs will increase accordingly. Adding a thermostat can take an additional two hours, increasing labor fees.
Permit Fees
You may need a permit to install an electric baseboard heater, especially since improper installation can pose a fire risk. Permit fees vary based on the number of circuits, amps, and heater units you're adding and local regulations. Discuss this with your electrician—they'll know the local requirements and can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Room Size
Electric baseboard heaters are great for adding warmth to specific areas, especially rooms where your existing HVAC system doesn't reach. To heat a room effectively, choose a heater with enough wattage for the entire space. For example, it's more cost-effective to heat a single 300-square-foot room than three separate 100-square-foot rooms. Here's how much you might spend on heaters for standard room sizes.
| Room Size (Sq. Ft.) | Equipment Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 64 | $45–$150 |
| 100 | $75–$250 |
| 150 | $100–$300 |
| 300 | $150–$700 |
| 500 | $300–$1,000 |
Purchasing In The Off-season
Buying your baseboard heaters in spring or summer can save you money. Electricians are less busy during these seasons, so installation may be more affordable, and you might find discounts unavailable in winter. Remember that equipment discounts during the off-season max out around 10% to 15%, and savings can vary by location.
Type of Thermostat
Homeowners have plenty of options when it comes to the thermostat affiliated with an electric baseboard heater. Some models have a built-in thermostat, but many require a second standalone unit. These thermostat types range in price and feature sets, so talk to your electrician to see if the thermostat cost is included in the total cost estimate of the job or if it requires additional funds.
The price of a thermostat fluctuates depending on the type of thermostat you choose. Single two-pole thermostats are often the most affordable, while high-end smart thermostats can significantly increase costs.
Maintenance Costs
Maintaining your electric baseboard heaters is simple and helps keep them running efficiently. It’s important to keep them clean and free of dust, debris, and moisture. If you notice rust, use a rust remover to prevent it from spreading, and seal any gaps with high-heat sealant. Scheduling an annual inspection with your HVAC pro is important—helping you avoid costly repairs down the line. With proper maintenance, your heaters can reach their maximum lifespan of up to 20 years.
Overage
Since baseboard heater installation costs can vary, it's wise to add a 5% to 10% buffer to your total budget. This cushion covers unexpected issues, like finding out your circuit breaker needs repair or that outdated wiring requires replacement. Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth installation and avoids unexpected expenses.
How Many Baseboard Heaters Do You Need?
The number of baseboard heaters you'll need depends on how many rooms you're heating and their sizes—not just your home's overall size. Heater power varies by wattage and amps. For example, a 500-square-foot room might need a single 4,500-watt heater or multiple units totaling 4,500 watts to keep it warm. Here's a general guide to estimate the number of heaters you need for different home sizes. Remember to consult a baseboard heater pro near you for advice tailored to your home's design.
| Home Size (Sq. Ft.) | Number of Baseboard Heaters Required |
|---|---|
| 800–1,000 | 6–7 |
| 1,200–1,400 | 8–10 |
| 1,500–1,700 | 10-12 |
| 1,800–2,200 | 12–15 |
| 2,300–3,000 | 16–20 |
Budgeting for Baseboard Heater Installation
While installing and operating baseboard heaters can be pricey, careful budgeting can help you manage costs and prevent surprises. Here are some strategies to help you save money on your electric baseboard heater installation:
Purchase during the off-season: Buying your baseboard heaters in spring or summer often gets you a better price than waiting until winter.
Get multiple quotes: Obtain estimates from several licensed electricians to find the most competitive labor rates.
Choose energy-efficient models: While they may have a higher upfront cost, energy-efficient heaters can lower operating expenses over time.
Plan bulk installations: Installing multiple units at once can reduce labor costs per unit.
Consider thermostat options: Investing in programmable thermostats can help you control energy usage and reduce long-term costs.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric baseboard heaters are safe when properly installed and maintained. They often include safety features like automatic shut-off systems to prevent overheating and fire hazards. Just make sure to keep the area around the heater clear and teach children and pets to stay away from it to ensure everyone's safety.
Electric baseboard heating can be more expensive than other systems because it converts all the electricity it uses into heat. For example, a 2,000-watt heater can warm 200 square feet quickly, but heating a 2,200-square-foot home could cost around $2,485 per year at 15 cents per kWh. You can reduce these costs by improving your home's insulation and managing how you use the heaters.
Newer electric baseboard heaters are more energy-efficient than older models. They use advanced designs to deliver heat more effectively and minimize energy waste. However, they still tend to have higher operating costs than other heating options like central heat pumps. Upgrading your insulation and installing a programmable thermostat can help keep your energy costs down.
Electric baseboard heaters last between 15 and 20 years with proper care and maintenance. The top factors that impact their lifespan include how often you use them, the quality of materials, and the level of upkeep. Keep in mind they may become less efficient over time, losing up to 7% efficiency as they age.
Electric baseboard heaters need at least 12 inches of clearance in front of them to operate safely. It’s also recommended to leave at least six inches of clearance above and three inches on the side. You should keep furniture and other objects at least one foot away to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper airflow.
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