Baseboard Heater: How to Improve the Heat Flow

Hot-water baseboard heaters put out a lot of heat very quickly, as soon as the thermostat kicks on.

However, sometimes these heaters can put out a little less heat than you’re paying for, and that’s when you know there’s a problem.

Here’s how to dramatically improve the heat flow, and pay attention because you’ll want to do this twice each winter.

First, remove the baseboard heater’s end caps and pop off the front panel to expose the finned copper pipe inside. These fins absorb heat from the hot water going through the pipe.

Next, use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a crevice wand to remove all dirt and dust from between the fins and from the areas below and above the copper pipe.

Work carefully because the aluminum fins bend easily!

And that’s all there is to it.

If you do this at the beginning and end of winter, your hot-water baseboard heater should put out just as much heat as you need it to.

It’s Heat Your Home Week, sponsored by American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning! Want to make sure your home is nice and toasty from the first cold snap? Click for all the money-saving advice you need to stay warm and comfortable.