DIY guideHeating system
Vacuum the electric baseboard heaters
With its breaker off and the heater cool, lift the cover and vacuum the dust off the fins, so it heats well and doesn't smell.
- 10 to 20 min
- 8 steps
- Every step animated
8 steps
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Turn the thermostat down, then switch off the heater's breaker. Turn the thermostat up to check it stays cold.
Baseboards run on high voltage: the breaker must be off before the cover comes off.Wait until it's cool to the touch.
Lift the front cover off its clips, or undo its screws.
With a soft brush on the vacuum, go gently along the fins. Don't bend them.
Wipe the cover and the wall above it with a damp cloth.
Keep curtains, furniture and cords well clear of it.
Put the cover back, switch the breaker on, and set the thermostat.
Scorch marks, a burning smell that lasts, loose wires or a damaged element: leave the breaker off and ask Handyman for an electrician.
What you need
- A vacuum with a soft brush
- A damp cloth
- A screwdriver
Call a pro if
- Scorch marks or melted plastic
- A burning smell that doesn't fade after the first hour
- Loose or damaged wires
- It won't heat with the breaker on
Handyman says: Scorched? I'll find an electrician.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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