How to Conceal Exposed Wiring After Removing an Electric Baseboard Heater

When removing an electric baseboard heater, especially if the wiring is exposed, it is important to properly conceal and organize the wires to ensure safety and aesthetic appeal. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to hide the wiring behind your wall or on the surface, providing both safety and a tidy appearance.

Evaluation of the Exposed Wiring

Before attempting to conceal the wires, it is crucial to assess the type of exposed wiring you are dealing with. It could be a conduit pipe, a cable, or individual bare wires. Understanding the situation will help you determine the most appropriate method to conceal the wires effectively.

Conduit Pipe

If the exposed wiring runs through a conduit pipe, the first step is to paint the pipe. You can use any clear or neutral paint, which will help blend the conduit with the wall. Once the paint is dry, cover the conduit with a blank cover plate. This is a simple and effective approach that will both cover and protect the wiring.

Cable or Individual Wires

For exposed cables or individual bare wires, you have a few options depending on the materials and ease of access in your space. Here are some methods:

Surface Mounting with Wiremold

If you are working with surfaces like drywall, metal, or concrete, you can use a surface-mount box system. Wiremold surface raceways are an excellent solution for this. These raceways allow you to conceal wires behind the surface while still maintaining accessibility when needed. Simply run the wires through the raceway, secure the raceway to the wall with fasteners, and cover it with a finished panel to camouflage the wires.

In-Drywall Concealment

If your wall is made of drywall, you can create a rectangle opening for a remodel box. Start by cutting a rectangle in the drywall where the heater was installed. Run the wires through the opening, placing them in the remodel box. Seal the box with wire nuts to ensure the wires are properly insulated. Attach a blank cover to the wall to hide the box and the wires from view.

Concrete or Hard Materials

If your wall is made of concrete or another hard material, it may be more challenging to cut a rectangle for a remodel box. In such cases, a surface-mount box system is your best bet. Position the surface-mount box on the wall where the wires are exposed, secure it with fasteners, and run the wires through the box. Then, cover the box with a finished panel to ensure the wires are hidden and the area looks neat.

Concluding Steps

Once you’ve concealed the exposed wires, it’s important to ensure that the area is safe and that the wiring remains accessible if needed. Test any outlets or switches to ensure they are functioning correctly after the work is complete.

Conclusion

Properly concealing exposed wiring after the removal of an electric baseboard heater is crucial for both safety and aesthetics. By understanding the type of exposed wiring and choosing the appropriate method (whether it be painting a conduit, using a surface-mount cable raceway, or creating a remodel box), you can ensure that your home looks clean, safe, and well-maintained.