Baseboard heaters are a great way to heat a room efficiently and affordably, and wiring them to your home’s electrical system is a simple process. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to wiring a 120 volt baseboard heater and include a wiring diagram to make the process even easier.
What You’ll Need
Before we get started, make sure you have the following materials:
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 120 volt baseboard heater | 1 or more |
| Double pole circuit breaker | 1 |
| 12/2 or 14/2 non-metallic cable with ground | As needed |
| Wire nuts | As needed |
| Screwdriver | 1 |
| Wire strippers | 1 |
Once you have all your materials, you’re ready to start wiring your 120 volt baseboard heater.
Step 1: Turn Off Power
The first step in any electrical project is to turn off the power. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the area where you’ll be installing the baseboard heater and turn it off.
Note:
Always double-check that the power is off before working on any electrical project. Use a voltage tester to ensure that the wires are not live.
Step 2: Install Double Pole Circuit Breaker
In order to wire a 120 volt baseboard heater, you’ll need to install a double pole circuit breaker in your electrical panel. This breaker is required by code to ensure that both hot wires are disconnected when the breaker is turned off.
Consult your local electrical code for specific requirements for installing a double pole circuit breaker.
Step 3: Plan Your Wiring Route
Before running any wires, take a moment to plan the route that your wiring will take. Consider where the baseboard heater will be located and where the electrical panel is located. Decide on the best route for your wiring based on these factors.
Note:
Always follow local electrical code when planning your wiring route. Route wires away from any water sources or areas where they may be accidentally cut or damaged.
Step 4: Run Non-Metallic Cable from Electrical Panel to Heater
Now it’s time to run the non-metallic cable from the electrical panel to the location of the baseboard heater. Use wire staples to secure the cable to the wall or baseboard as needed.
Step 5: Strip Wires
Once your non-metallic cable is in place, strip both the black and white wires on each end of the cable. Strip approximately ¾ inch of insulation from the end of each wire.
Step 6: Connect Wires to Baseboard Heater
At the baseboard heater, connect the black wire to the black wire on the heater and the white wire to the white wire on the heater. Connect the ground wire to the green screw on the baseboard heater.
Note:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when connecting wires to your baseboard heater. Use wire nuts to secure the connections and prevent any loose wires.
Step 7: Connect Wires to Circuit Breaker
Finally, connect the black and white wires from the non-metallic cable to the double pole circuit breaker in your electrical panel. Use wire nuts to secure the connections and make sure the wires are properly tightened.
FAQ
Q: Can I wire multiple baseboard heaters to one thermostat?
A: Yes, you can wire multiple baseboard heaters to one thermostat. However, you’ll need to make sure that the thermostat is rated for the total amperage of the baseboard heaters you’re connecting.
Q: What size non-metallic cable should I use for a 120 volt baseboard heater?
A: Use 12/2 or 14/2 non-metallic cable with ground for a 120 volt baseboard heater. Consult your local electrical code for specific requirements.
Q: Can I install a 120 volt baseboard heater in a bathroom?
A: It’s generally not recommended to install a 120 volt baseboard heater in a bathroom due to the potential for water damage. Consult your local electrical code for specific requirements in your area.
Q: How many baseboard heaters can I connect to one circuit breaker?
A: The number of baseboard heaters you can connect to one circuit breaker depends on the amperage of the circuit breaker and the total amperage of the baseboard heaters. Consult your local electrical code for specific requirements.
Conclusion
Wiring a 120 volt baseboard heater is a simple process that can be completed by any homeowner with basic electrical knowledge. Follow the steps outlined in this article and consult your local electrical code for specific requirements.
Remember to always turn off the power before beginning any electrical project and to follow manufacturer’s instructions for your specific baseboard heater.
