How to Replace a Baseboard Heater in 7 Steps

Learn the basic steps for how to replace a baseboard heater

baseboard heater in living room
Photo: Douglas Rissing / iStock / Getty Images
baseboard heater in living room
Photo: Douglas Rissing / iStock / Getty Images
Alison Kasch
Written by Alison Kasch
Contributing Writer
Updated Sep 18, 2024
SKILL LEVEL
Challenging
COMPLETION TIME
1 hour
COST
$500–$1,000
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
  • Non-contact voltage tester
  • Screwdriver
  • Electrical tape
  • Wire cutters or strippers
SUPPLIES
  • Baseboard heater
  • Wire nuts
  • Grounding screw

Whether you’re swapping out an outdated unit or upgrading to a more energy-efficient model, learning how to replace a baseboard heater is possible for the advanced-level DIYer. However, this project can be hazardous due to the required electrical work, so it’s best to hire a local baseboard installer. This guide will walk you through the basic removal and replacement process for baseboard heaters.

Common baseboard heater problems, including overheating, and electrical malfunctions
Photo: Catherine Ledner / DigitalVision / Getty Images

How to Replace a Baseboard Heater

close up of mounted baseboard heater
Photo: Douglas Rissing / iStock / Getty Images

If you’re up for the DIY, carefully follow these steps to replace a baseboard heater.

  1. Shut Off the Power at the Breaker

    Ensure your safety by switching off the circuit breaker for the baseboard heater at the main electrical panel. Tape over the breaker to prevent accidental reactivation. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off before moving on to the next step.

  2. Remove the Existing Heater

    Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws securing the old heater to the wall, which are located at the sides or top of the heater. Before touching the heater, make sure it has cooled down completely.

  3. Disconnect the Wiring

    Carefully remove the baseboard heater from the wall to expose the wiring. Locate the metal cable entering the back of the heater. Unscrew the metal plate holding the wiring in place. Disconnect the wire nuts joining the heater's wires to the home's electrical wiring, and release the ground wire from the grounding screw.

  4. Put the New Heater Into Position

    Position the new heater on the floor near where it will be installed. Find the wire box on the unit closest to the wall wires and remove the cover plate using a screwdriver. Pull the wires from inside the new unit to prepare for connection.

  5. Wire the New Heater

    Following the same method as the old unit, connect the heater to the home’s wiring. Match black to black (or red) and white to white, securing the connections with wire nuts and electrical tape. Attach the ground wire to the grounding screw on the new heater and replace the metal plate.

  6. Mount the New Heater

    Position the new heater on the wall and secure it using screws. Align the screws with the existing wall anchors for a snug fit. 

  7. Test the New Heater

    Once everything is secure, turn the power back on at the breaker and turn on the baseboard heater to make sure it’s functioning properly.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you’re not comfortable with learning how to replace a baseboard heater, it’s highly advisable to seek out a pro rather than attempting the DIY. The cost of installing a baseboard heater professionally is between $75 and $250 per hour for labor, plus the cost of the unit. Baseboard heater prices vary significantly, with costs ranging anywhere from $50 to $1,300. While you can save on labor by replacing a baseboard heater yourself, hiring a pro will ensure it’s installed safely and properly for maximum efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your baseboard heater is not turning on, and you’ve confirmed that the breaker hasn’t been tripped, this is a sign that your baseboard heater might need replacement. Or, if the heater turns on but loses heat within a few minutes, it may need a new heating element or a full replacement. There might also be a burning smell or visual signs of wear or corrosion. It’s best to have your heater inspected by a baseboard specialist or a licensed HVAC technician to help diagnose the issue and resolve it.

The average life expectancy of a baseboard heater is around 20 years, but they can last even longer when they’re well-maintained. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend their lifespan, but if your heaters are no longer heating effectively, making unusual noises, or causing your energy bills to rise, it might be time for a replacement.

If you’re unhappy with the look of your baseboard heater and want to make it flow seamlessly with your wall color, painting a baseboard heater is possible. Always ensure the heater is off and cooled before you begin this project. Heat-resistant paint isn’t necessary unless your heater is heating above 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Yes, if your baseboard heater is worn or damaged, you can learn how to replace a baseboard heater cover. Many companies offer DIY-friendly replacement covers designed to fit over existing heaters. To replace it, simply remove the old cover by unscrewing or unclipping it. Then, slide the new cover into place, ensuring it fits securely around the heating unit.

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Learn more about our contributor
Alison Kasch
Written by Alison Kasch
Contributing Writer
Alison is a Chicago-based writer who has spent the last seven years focusing her content on everything inside and outside the home.
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