In Wall Heater Cleaning

Houses heated by electricity often have a mix of electric baseboard and in wall heaters. When in wall heaters are present, there is often a blackish discoloration or "sooting" on the heater grill and surrounding wall.

In wall heater with "sooting" or a blackish discoloration present on the grill.

Close up of the discoloration on the grill. This is caused by a build up of lint and dirt on the heating element and grill.

Look at the heater grill cover and you will often see this condition present. This discoloration is caused by lint and debris on the grill and heating element. This build up results in excess heat being retained and will eventually cause the "sooting" condition. 

Internal view of an in wall heater. Grill has been removed (and the power to the unit has been turned off). You can see the build up of dust on the fan blades.

If you want to look inside the heater, the first step is to TURN OFF THE POWER to the heater, usually by flipping the breaker at the service panel. Most wall heaters use 220 volt power, you don't want live wires next to your hand when you take the cover off. 

There is often a build up of dust and dirt inside the heater. This can also cause problems with correct operation of the element or the fan. 

Wall heater manufacturers recommend inspection and cleaning of units twice a year. If you have an in wall heater and shedding pets, you may want to consider more frequent cleaning.

Here is a video link from Cadet Heaters on performing maintenance and cleaning of an in wall heater.