Old wall heaters, whether electric or gas, are common fixtures in many homes. While they may have once been essential for comfort, today’s homeowners often want to remove them—whether to modernize the look of a room, increase safety, or free up valuable wall space.
Removing an old wall heater can make way for new decor, furniture, or even updated, more efficient heating systems. However, the process requires careful attention to safety and detail. This comprehensive guide will walk you step-by-step through how to remove wall heater, including safely disconnecting the power or gas lines and repairing the resulting hole for a seamless finish.
Safety First: The Critical Preliminary Steps
Whenever you’re working with electricity or gas, safety is non-negotiable. Before you pick up any tools, take these precautions to ensure a safe and successful project.
The Golden Rule: Shutting Off the Power or Gas
For Electric Heaters:
Locate your home’s electrical panel and identify the circuit breaker dedicated to the wall heater. Switch it to the “OFF” position. Use a voltage tester to confirm there is absolutely no electrical current present at the heater. Never rely on simply flipping switches; electricity must be off at the breaker.
For Gas Heaters:
Find the dedicated gas shut-off valve near the heater, and turn the handle perpendicular to the pipe to stop the gas flow. Additionally, be familiar with your home’s main gas shut-off location in case of emergency. Never proceed without confirming the gas is completely shut off.
Essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Before tackling removal, equip yourself with the proper safety gear. Wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from dust and debris, as well as work gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges or unexpected hazards. It’s also wise to keep a fire extinguisher nearby, especially when dealing with old wiring or gas connections.
Identifying Your Heater Type: Electric vs. Gas
Properly identifying your wall heater type will guide your approach and help avoid costly mistakes.
Characteristics of an Electric Wall Heater
Electric wall heaters usually feature a simple metal grille or cover, behind which heating coils are visible. These units are hardwired directly into the house’s electrical system and do not include gas lines or exterior vent pipes.
Characteristics of a Gas Wall Heater
Gas wall heaters are typically bulkier, containing parts like a pilot light assembly and a control knob. A vent pipe—called a flue—is often visible, running through the wall or ceiling to the outside. You’ll also find a small, flexible or rigid gas supply line connected to the heater, which must be safely handled during removal.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
You’ll need a few specialized tools and repair supplies to get the job done from start to finish.
Tools for Removal
Have a voltage tester on hand to confirm electrical safety. Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, pliers, an adjustable wrench, a pry bar, and a utility knife will aid in disassembly and removal.
Materials for Wall Repair
To restore the wall after the heater comes out, gather a small piece of drywall, a 1×3 or 2×4 backing board, drywall screws, joint compound, drywall tape, and a putty knife. These materials will allow you to patch, smooth, and finish the wall seamlessly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Wall Heater
The process for removing an electric heater requires careful attention at each stage. Follow these detailed steps for safety and success.
Step 1: Remove the Outer Cover (Grille)
First, use your screwdriver to remove the screws holding the heater’s front cover or grille—these are usually found on the sides or the front. Carefully pull off the cover to reveal the internal components.
Step 2: Disconnect the Electrical Wiring
Crucial Safety Check:
With the cover off, use the voltage tester to double-check that no electricity is flowing to the wires. When certain it’s safe, use a screwdriver to disconnect any wire nuts joining the heater’s wires to your home’s electrical system. Carefully separate the wires, keeping them from touching.
Step 3: Detach the Heater Body from the Wall
Locate the screws securing the heater’s metal housing (often called the “can”) to the wall studs. Remove these and gently pry the housing out of its wall cavity. Move slowly to avoid damaging surrounding drywall or encountering hidden wires.
How to Remove a Gas Wall Heater
Gas wall heaters require extra caution and, in some steps, may warrant professional assistance.
Step 1: Disconnecting the Gas Line
Once the gas supply is confirmed off, use two wrenches—one to stabilize the heater’s fitting and one to turn the supply line nut—to disconnect the gas line from the unit.
Strong Recommendation:
If you are not 100% comfortable working with gas lines, enlist a licensed plumber. Incorrect handling poses serious risk.
Step 2: Capping the Gas Line
The now-exposed gas line must be securely capped to prevent leaks. Purchase a correctly sized threaded cap and apply pipe thread sealant. Screw the cap onto the line and tighten it with a wrench. Double-check for a tight, leak-free seal.
Step 3: Removing the Vent Pipe and Heater Body
Disconnect the vent pipe (or flue) from the top of the heater. This may involve removing screws or a clamp. After all connections are released, unscrew the heater itself from the wall studs and gently remove it from the wall cavity. If there’s an exterior vent cap, it should also be removed, with the hole sealed to prevent drafts or pests.
Repairing the Hole in the Drywall
Wall heaters often leave behind substantial openings. To ensure your wall looks pristine, follow this approach.
Creating a Secure Backing
Cut a piece of 1×3 or 2×4 lumber to be slightly longer than the height of the hole. Slide this board horizontally or vertically inside the cavity behind the existing drywall. Secure it by driving drywall screws through the wall into the ends of the board. This gives you a strong surface to attach the drywall patch.
Fitting and Attaching the Drywall Patch
Measure the size of the wall opening and cut a new drywall patch to fit snugly. Place the patch over the opening, screwing it into the solid wood backing you installed.
Taping and Mudding for a Smooth Finish
Apply drywall tape over the seams between the new patch and the existing wall. Then, use a putty knife to spread thin layers of joint compound over the seams, feathering the edges outward with each coat. Allow each layer to dry before sanding and applying the next until the repair is flush and seamless.
Final Sanding and Painting
Finishing touches make the patch invisible and restore your wall to its original look.
Sanding the Patch Smooth
Once the final joint compound coat is dry, sand the area gently with fine-grit sandpaper. The surface should be flush and smooth, blending perfectly into the surrounding wall.
Priming and Painting
Prime the repaired area with a quality primer to ensure an even, consistent paint finish. Once the primer is dry, paint the patch to match the rest of your wall. With careful application, no one will know a heater was ever there!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wall Repairs
How Do I Choose the Right Joint Compound for Repairs?
It is best to use a lightweight joint compound for small repairs as it is easy to work with and dries quickly. For larger areas, a regular or all-purpose joint compound may be more suitable.
Do I Need to Use a Primer Before Painting?
Yes, priming is essential. Applying a primer helps the paint adhere better and ensures the repaired area blends seamlessly with the rest of the wall.
What Grit Sandpaper Should I Use for Sanding the Patch?
Fine-grit sandpaper, typically between 120 and 220 grit, is ideal for achieving a smooth, flush surface without damaging the surrounding wall.
How Can I Make Sure the Paint Matches the Existing Wall?
Use leftover paint from the original job if available, or take a sample of your wall paint to a hardware store for color matching. Testing the paint on a small area first is always a good idea.
What Tools Will I Need for Patching a Wall?
Basic tools include a putty knife, sandpaper, a sponge or rag, primer, and paint. For larger repairs, you may also need a drywall patch and a utility knife.
Conclusion
Removing an old wall heater is a project that improves both the look and safety of your living space. By following the proper steps—shutting off power or gas, carefully disconnecting and removing the heater, and then professionally repairing the wall—you can take full advantage of your home’s space and enjoy a more updated aesthetic.
Most importantly, always prioritize safety. With this guide, you now have the expert knowledge on how to remove wall heater, empowering you to reclaim your walls and update your home with confidence.