Quck answer
To remove an electric baseboard heater, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power: Locate the breaker that controls the heater and switch it off to cut off the power supply.
2. Remove the cover: Unscrew or unclip the cover of the baseboard heater to expose the internal components.
3. Disconnect the wires: Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the heater. Make sure to label them for easy reconnection later.
4. Unscrew the mounting brackets: Remove the screws holding the baseboard heater to the wall or floor.
5. Lift and remove the heater: Carefully lift the heater off the mounting brackets and detach it from the wall or floor.
6. Patch the wall or floor: Fill any holes or gaps left by the removal of the baseboard heater using wall patching compound or flooring material.
By following these steps, you can successfully remove an electric baseboard heater.
Electric baseboard heaters are similar to plug-in electric space heaters, but they are usually hardwired into an electrical circuit. Each heater is usually equipped with its own thermostat, but if it doesn’t have one, it’s controlled by a line-voltage thermostat that operates at circuit voltage (120 or 240 volts) instead of the low voltage (24 volts) from a transformer at which a central heating system thermostat operates. This means that an electric baseboard heater is wired almost exactly like a light fixture, complete with wall switch.
The procedure for removing an electric baseboard heater is similar to that for removing a light fixture because of the wiring similarity, and it’s even easier because you don’t need a ladder. The most important thing to remember is to turn off the power before starting the procedure because the wires, like those feeding a light fixture, can deliver an injurious and potentially fatal shock if you touch a live one.
Items You Will Need
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Phillips screwdriver
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Rubber gloves
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Voltage tester
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Putty knife (if needed)
How to Take Out an Electric Baseboard Heater
Step 1: Power Off
Find the circuit breaker in the main panel that controls the heater circuit and switch it off. Don’t rely on merely turning down the thermostat; it could switch on while you’re working, which could be disastrous.
Step 2: Remove the Electrical Access Cover
The access cover is located on the front of the heater at one end and is held on by one or two screws. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver and set aside the screws and the cover.
Step 3: Disconnect the Wiring
Wear a pair of rubber gloves for insulation, unscrew the wire caps holding pairs of wires together and pull the wires apart. If the heater operates at 120 volts, there will be a pair of white wires, a pair of black wires, and a pair of ground wires. It’s possible that the ground wire is connected to a screw on the heater, so if that is the case, loosen the screw and remove the wire. If the unit operates at 240 volts, there will be an extra pair of hot wires, which are red. Disconnect those as well. Do not touch any exposed wires until you test them.
Step 4: Check the Wires
Use a voltage tester to verify that the wires are not live. Touch one probe to the black circuit wire and the other to the ground or white circuit wire. The meter should read zero, and if the tester has a light, it should stay off. If you get a reading or if the light illuminates, check the breakers. You may have turned off the wrong one.
Step 5: Unscrew the Heater From the Wall
Look inside the heater housing and you should see three or four screws holding it to the wall. Remove these screws with a screwdriver.
Step 6: Pull the Heater Away From the Wall
Gently pull the heater away from the wall using a putty knife to pry it if it’s stuck. Feed the circuit wires through the hole in the back as you separate the heater from the wall.
Handling the Circuit Wires
When you have removed the heater, you will find wires coming out of the wall that cannot be left as it is. One way to deal with it is to get an electrician to disconnect the wires from the panel for safety and pull the cable out of the wall. If the wires are linked to a thermostat, you will have to disconnect and remove it as well and pull out the wires that are connected to it.
Alternatively, if you plan to install another heater in the future, a better option is to screw a wire cap onto each wire. Then push the wires into the electrical box and screw on a cover plate. In case there is no box and the wires are just hanging out of the wall, you can install a remodeling box that attaches to the drywall and screw a cover plate onto it.
FAQ
1. Can I remove an electric baseboard heater myself?
Yes, you can remove an electric baseboard heater yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and tools. However, it is always recommended to hire a professional electrician to ensure safety and avoid any potential hazards.
2. What tools do I need to remove an electric baseboard heater?
To remove an electric baseboard heater, you will need a few basic tools such as a screwdriver, wire cutters, wire nuts, and a voltage tester. Additionally, you may require a pry bar or a putty knife to remove any caulking or adhesive holding the heater in place.
3. How do I disconnect the electrical connections of an electric baseboard heater?
Before disconnecting the electrical connections, turn off the power supply to the heater from the main electrical panel. Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off. Then, carefully remove the cover of the heater and unscrew the wire connections using a screwdriver. Secure the exposed wires with wire nuts to prevent any accidental contact.
4. How do I remove an electric baseboard heater from the wall?
To remove an electric baseboard heater from the wall, start by turning off the power supply and disconnecting the electrical connections as mentioned earlier. Then, remove any screws or fasteners that are holding the heater to the wall. Gently pull the heater away from the wall, taking care not to damage the surrounding area. If the heater is caulked or adhered to the wall, use a pry bar or putty knife to carefully separate it.
5. What should I do with the electric baseboard heater after removal?
After removing an electric baseboard heater, you have a few options. If the heater is still in good working condition, you can try selling or donating it. Alternatively, you can dispose of it at a local recycling center or contact an electronics recycling company. Be sure to follow the proper disposal guidelines for electronic waste in your area.