Changing to electric heat from radiant in a small apartment building

Changing to electric heat from radiant in a small apartment building

Brad NowakPro Member
Member since 2023 · 12 posts · 4 votes

I have seen properties convert the radiant heat system to electric board heating style during remodels. I am wondering what an average cost per unit would be and what things I should be aware of? These are smaller 650 Sq ft 1 bed and studio size apartments. Also can this be done one at a time when turning a unit or would it need to all be done at once? Would love any feedback. Thank you.

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Bruce WoodruffPro Member
Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
2y

I didn't know you were talking about a water based heating system...that changes things a bit. You will not have the existing power supply that I assumed.

Still I like @Jill F. idea of installing mini-splits. That way you get both heating and cooling....

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  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    2y

    You can do it one apartment at a time. Each unit will have a 20A/220V breaker for each room that you can turn off to disable the ceiling heat. Then you would run a new conduit to the new heating units.Then patch drywall, and repaint. I'd guess at a cost of $3000 per apartment.

    I'm not sure about why you'd want baseboard units? Maybe some wall units instead? https://www.homedepot.com/p/Cadet-240-208-120-volt-1-600-1-5...Have you thought about it?

    Are you going to remove the popcorn ceilings too? It is usually done at the same time, but will involve asbestos testing which can get expensive.

    Big question is - why not just leave well enough alone? If the radiant ceiling heat is working, just leave it, it's really pretty efficient for what it is......

  • Brad NowakPro Member
    OP
    Member since 2023 · 12 posts · 4 votes
    2y

    A few reasons to replace would be tenant would be paying for heat, lower maintenance costs long term, and no risk of water damage when pipes give out.

    Good callouts on ceiling but luckily, i dont have any popcorn texturing, thank goodness. I was open to any suggestions and do like the wall unit idea. Guessing i would just need a few of them.

  • Investor · Akron, OH · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    2y

    Have you considered going with mini splits in that size apartment? 

  • Brad NowakPro Member
    OP
    Member since 2023 · 12 posts · 4 votes
    2y

    I haven't but I appreciate the suggestion.

  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    2y

    I didn't know you were talking about a water based heating system...that changes things a bit. You will not have the existing power supply that I assumed.

    Still I like @Jill F. idea of installing mini-splits. That way you get both heating and cooling....

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