Baseboard Hydronic Convector clearances

SJ_Mtn

Is there a vertical clearance requirement for the hydronic baseboard heaters? I have a design that I need to put cabinets along the wall with baseboard heaters and I want to know how far above the heaters can I hang the cabinets, these are floating cabinets. Is there any heat shield that I should put on the bottom of the cabinets to deflect the heat? Or should I just push the client to switch over to either toe kick heaters or in-floor recessed heaters?

mattmia2

If the baseboard is hydronic the temp will be less than 200 degrees so it is not a safety issue.

The issues you need to be concerned with is allowing good air flow through and above the baseboard to get the proper heat output and if you have any finishes that the possibly 180 degree or so air could damage.

Jamie Hall

Perhaps a more direct answer -- I'd want a few inches -- say 4 to 6 -- above the convector for air circulation. Shouldn't need more than that..

dopey27177

My preference is 12 to 18". The reason for this is to allow the warm air to rise quicker (low hanging cabinets can retard the flow of air slightly).

Jake