There are similarities between hydronic heaters and standard electric baseboard heaters: Both look basically the same and are designed to provide either a primary or supplemental heat source for a residence or business. Both can run on AC electrical current. However, there are significant distinctions between the two types of heating equipment, mostly in terms of their cost of operation and the specific heating method used.
The main differentiator is that hydronic heat produces rays, heating a room in the same way your skin is warmed by the rays of the sun. Electric convection heaters utilize a fan to create warmth and operate similarly to a convection oven as they circulate heat throughout the room.
Here, we’ll break down the primary differences so you can determine whether hydronic or electric baseboard heating is the right choice for your needs.
| Hydronic Heaters | Electric Baseboard Heaters | |
| Current | AC | AC |
| Heating Method | Heat rays (like sun) | Heat waves (diffuse with fan, like convection ovens) |
| Types | Built-in systems and freestanding heaters heat water/oil | Heats with internal heating element |
| Design | Wall-mounted floor height | Wall-mounted floor height |
| Installation | Built-in installation is complex (usually permanent) | Built-in installation is complex (usually permanent) |
| Cost | Higher cost, more efficient | Cheaper cost, less efficient |
| Size | 35" to 94" width average | 20" to 96" width average |
Hydronic Heaters
There are two primary types of hydronic heaters: built-in systems and freestanding systems.
Built-in systems are built directly into a home or other building during the construction process. These versions aren’t dissimilar to the old cast-iron radiators that were common heat sources starting almost a century ago. Built-in hydronic heating systems move water or another heating liquid to a central boiler (typically powered via natural gas) and then to copper pipes that transfer the heated water to heating units within the baseboards of individual rooms. After the water cools it returns back to the boiler.
In contrast, freestanding heaters are, in most cases, powered by electricity and have their own supply of water, as well as their own thermostat. This water is heated and reheated in each individual baseboard unit within heaters spread around the house or in a single room.
While both types of hydronic heaters can take longer to heat up than regular electric coil convection systems—expect to wait up to 30 minutes to an hour for a room to become comfortably warm—one universal advantage is hydronic units typically produce longer-lasting heat compared with standard electric heaters. But because the built-in models work directly with your boiler, they can also be costly to maintain if you don’t keep corrosion or rust at bay.
Hydronic models typically cost more to install, but they deliver significantly more energy savings because they continue to provide warm air even when the heater turns off, making them more efficient and the better value over the long haul.
Both hydronic and electric convection heaters come in both 120-volt and 240-volt options. In the case of hydronic heaters, the higher voltage equals higher heat output, as well as increased efficiency versus lower voltages.
Electric Convection Baseboard Heaters
Rather than using heated water to provide a source of heat, electric convection baseboard heaters use electricity to fire up an internal heating element. Cool air is drawn into an intake vent and then heated up before being blown out by a fan that disperses heat to the room. Much like freestanding hydronic heaters, electric convection models have their own built-in thermostats that control each heating unit. Additional specialized thermostats and other heating equipment and accessories can also be incorporated into the systems.
Because both the interior heating elements as well as the exterior steel casing have a tendency to cool down fast, electric convection baseboard heaters don’t stay warm as long as their hydronic counterparts. Once the thermostat kicks off, you will start to notice the temperature difference. But the simplicity of the electrical systems has its advantages. The internal heating coils are simple machines not unlike the inner workings of the toaster you use in the morning at breakfast. That translates to minimal breakdowns or repair compared with hydronic heaters, which can have leaking or motor issues. With electric convection, there isn’t much that can break down and maintenance is a breeze for those with moderate DIY skills. If you do hear any strange noises, chances are some brackets or other minor components simply need to be greased.
Electric convection heaters are by far the most common heat source for homes and they feature a broad array of sizes and lengths to choose from versus hydronic heaters, which generally come in a few standard sizes. Installation is also typically much cheaper and there’s no limit on how long they can last compared with hydronic heaters, which could require major repairs or full system replacement every 10 or 20 years.
Probably the biggest knock against standard electric convection heaters is the energy they consume. While they use roughly the same amount of energy as hydronic models initially, because they cool down fast, it takes more energy to keep the temperature constant over a period of time.
Making Your Decision
When deciding between hydronic and regular electric convection baseboard heaters, it really comes down to three things: budget, maintenance, and heat output.
If you have the financial means and seek consistent and comfortable heat at all times, hydronic is probably your best bet. But if you want a self-contained system that requires close to zero maintenance over time, along with peace of mind and more-than-adequate heating at a significantly lower initial cost, a standard electric convection heating system will certainly do the trick.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.