Hydrosil Heating Question

Hydrosil Heating Question

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Hydrosil Heating Question

What do you know about hydrosil heaters?

Dolores from Wareham, MA

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RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I've owned and used a portable (not Hydrosil) oil filled heater for 20 years. They are very efficient. Unlike electric heaters that cycle on and blast you with hot air, then cycle off and leave you cold, the oil heats up and cools down gradually and therefore continues to give off heat even when the power cycles off. I use mine in a small bedroom/office and it keeps it quite comfortable. I've been looking into Hydrosil for a permanent (baseboard) heating solution in my basement family room. They seem to be the only one that makes that type of oil filled heater. But, after reading the problems that some people have had with the company, I'm thinking twice about buying from them. The good reviews could be an effort by Hydrosil to offset the bad reviews many of which sounds like valid complaints. I think I'll have to do more a little more research. rbcook99 (at) hotmail (dot) com (09/08/2007)

By Bob from Wareham, MA

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

We bought two 5ft Hydrosil 220V units almost 3 years ago to replace the 1970s wall units in my home office of about 150 s.f. This room has 12ft ceilings, R12 insulation, one fairly drafty window and a very drafty old sliding door. I also live in the hills of western, MA at about 1,800ft - the winters are cold and very windy here. I spend about 10 hours each day in my home office and have been very happy with these Hydrosil units. They heat up the room quickly, even on the coldest days. I usually put plastic over the slider during the winter, but didn't get to it last year - and didn't really notice a difference. It was a more mild winter and the room stayed warm and comfortable. We did notice the cost went down our first winter with just these two 5 ft units. Our whole house is electric heat and I'm planning to replace the other 6 units (2 ft - 8 ft) with Hydrosil for this coming winter. We didn't experience any of the shipping, service or installation issues that others have complained about here. Our electrician simply swapped out the old units for the new units and was done with the installation in about 20 minutes. We kept our old thermostats in place. In fact, I'd consider installing the new units myself if I wasn't petrified of electrocuting myself. As I mentioned, the units we bought arrived in great shape, so we had no reason to contact the company about anything after the fact. In today's world, I always expect a company's customer service to be bad. Try calling your bank or cell phone company and see if you even get someone who lives in the USA and speaks English ;) If you happen to find the rare company that actually cares about customer service, that's definitely a good thing, but I've learned not to expect that. Actually, there's not much to these Hydrosil units that can go wrong. Just a case, a fluid tube and some heating fins... Some of the complaints were about case damage, dents, etc.., this stuff happens in shipping all the time and is not really the fault of the company really. The units were shipped in very heavy cardboard boxes when we ordered them, so they'd probably really have to be mis-handled and beat-up by the shipper to have dents, but again this happens a lot. And, as far as bad tech-support.., I can't remember the last time I contacted anyone's tech support and not been treated as a simpleton. That's just the nature of most technically minded people. The point I'm making is.., I'm not trying to defend Hydrosil if they do have bad customer service..., it's just that if this product fits a need you have and will save you money over time, then get it. I don't know of any similar product yet - and have been quite happy with it. I'm willing to bet that in the three years I've had these units, that I've already saved the purchase price. And the best part is that I'm nice and WARM in this typically cold New England hilltop office! (09/19/2007)

By Steve

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

After doing more research I've found that Qmark heaters are identical to the heaters that Hydro-Sil sells. They are available from F.N. Cuthbert Inc. (link at top of page) and other sellers through Amazon.com. If you plan on buying more than one, the savings can be significant. The PTS-1 thermostat (aka Honeywell/Aube TH106) is also available from Amazon and other sellers for less. (09/28/2007)

By Bob from Wareham, MA

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I installed several Hydro-sil units four or five years ago. They replaced standard electric baseboard heaters in part of our old (largely uninsulated, basement-less) farmhouse. Our experience with the product has been outstanding, and I am just about to replace all remaining older electric baseboard heaters with Hydro-sil units. Additionally, I am no handyman, but had no problems connecting the Hydo-sil heaters to the existing wiring. We live in an area that does not have severe winters in terms of prolonged periods of very low temperatures, but we're near the ocean and winter winds are very strong. (11/06/2007)

By Perry Fisher

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Thank you Jeff I have never been so satisfied with a company warranty and service as I am with hydro-sill when I bought them I thought it would be like most companies that give lifetime warranty. If it quit working after a year it was well its not for your life time it's the life time of the product, or or that is a failure not covered, all I can say if you buy from hydro-sil you will get great service. I called after about 9 years talked to customer service to Mr. Jeff Robins he was very polite and told me to send them back which I did, it took only one week and they sent new ones and they paid to ship them back, I got the three things I all ways look for from a company, they where understanding polite and stood behind there product. 110%, Jeff Robins was very polite, you cannot go wrong with Hydro-sil! Thanks for your service. Richard cope Central City KY P.S. The heaters actually cut my heating bill over half I heated with propane gas I had 500 gallon tank and had to fill it twice in the winter, at a cost of 92Cents gal, my electric bill which normally run about 65$ during the winter went up to about $40.00 made us very happy. (11/14/2007)

By

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I am simply amazed as well as very surprised by what HydroSil had to offer. They had given me a average operating cost, and I'll be damned if it wasn't right on the money. They based their operating cost on an average of 12 cent electric rate and on an insulated house and it is very close that it almost scary. Very professional as well as great technical support. And they are American made. They believe in keeping it at home. Good job! (12/01/2007)

By 1sophie

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I am practically sitting on top of one right now and can barely feel it. My toaster gives off more heat! (12/18/2007)

By MJ in Maine

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

BEWARE OF HYDROSIL. Their website has "lifetime warranty" in a big banner on the front, but they do not accept returns or issue refunds. I forked out a couple of hundred dollars for this heater, because the web site claims it basically last forever, unlike cheaper ones, and it is American made. All that money, lost, which as an elderly person I can ill afford. I was unhappy with their portable heater, because it had a strong burning paint smell even after I let it run overnight (in the garage, I couldn't stand to have it in the house) and because there is no protective guard on the very sharp metal fins, endangering babies or pets. No refunds after shipment! they told me. (12/28/2007)

By trudyjh

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I installed two four foot 220V Hydrosil units in a 20x12 sunporch last spring and have used them this fall and winter. Temperatures have been down as low as 16 degrees. The performance has been excellent. Floors are warm with no drafts. My light bill for December was less than $100. This includes water heating, cooking, washer/dryer and lights. No problems. (01/12/2008)

By Harry.

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

This company's service/technical dept. is outstanding. I had a problem with one of my Hydrosil units. There were no questions asked, they determined the unit to be defective and all that was asked of me was to send the unit back to them and a few days later I received the new unit. I am once again a happy camper. I can't say enough about this fine company. Thanks again. (01/31/2008)

By Earl E. Babcock

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I have had a portable Hydrosil for about 4 years. The thermostat quit working once and I called Hydrosil. They had another thermostat in the mail that day. In Texas it does not stay cold for long periods and we use the heater on the sunporch for the dogs. They love it and I can see a definite dip in my heating bill with it. (03/03/2008)

By Mike Wesley

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

The heaters are junk. They aren't any more efficient than the 25 year old fin tube heaters I replaced and we have cold winters in the UP of Michigan. Sure am sorry I spent the 2500 dollars to replace the ones I had. (03/05/2008)

By lenny

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Hydrosil Heating Question

I am researching info about these Hydrosil heaters. I currently have a houseful of the old electric style baseboards. They are efficient and I am able to keep my all electric household on a reasonable budget. I can't decide if I really need these new silicone replacements. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Rufus

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RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

We've had a 5-ft. Hydrosil heater (110 volt) for around 14 yrs. The thermostat went out 3-4 yrs. ago, and a call to the company got a new one on its way with no cost to us. We use the heater in an added-on porch room with 8 windows that is rarely used in the wintertime except for over-wintering plants and as a sleeping room for our outside dog in bad weather. This is our only source of heat in this room, and we keep it cool - around 55 degrees. We'd have preferred a 220 volt unit, but running a 220 line would have been difficult. We have been extremely pleased with our heater and would not hesitate to buy another one if needed. We live in Indiana (04/29/2008)

By SharonKK

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I had a hydrosil hardwired in my barn in the tack room and I love it - I live in Maine so it gets really cold. I have not had to turn the thermostat beyond 1 1/2 (goes 1-10). The heater keeps the room really toasty and doesn't dry out my leather riding tack like my old electric baseboard heater did and it's very cost effective. We are finishing a huge four season room that is about 900+ sq feet and are going to have hydrosil baseboards installed. The initial unit cost is more than a traditional baseboard unit but the savings on the utility bill and the quality of the heat is well worth it. (06/25/2008)

By LH

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I bought one about 1995, and recently bought another for this past winter 2007-2008. Since the fins they replaced were circa-1960, the Hydrosil blew it out of the water in terms of heat, comfort, and electric bill. (07/12/2008)

By Roberta

Hydrosil Heating/cooling Question

I live in Minnesota and I am interested in Hydrosil ductless split system to heat and cool our basement. Can someone give me feedback on the latest product? (08/17/2008)

By ladoirie

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I am stuck with two 6' Hydrosil Heaters and two upgraded thermostats due to the "NO RETURN/NO REFUND" policy. Within days of receiving our heaters we decided to go with central HVAC and so we didn't need them. They are still in the box and we would love for you to take them off our hand at any reasonable offer. Please post and I will reply. (08/17/2008)

By Amy

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Amy, I am interested in the heaters and thermostats you have. Email me at pdscripture AT comcast.net, with a phone number and a good time to call, and we'll talk. I am located in NH. (08/24/2008)

By PeterD39

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I have an apartment with these units and they are the best units I have ever had, I am currently remodeling a house with electric heat and I just ordered $3,000 worth of units, I will write more when I receive them, but as of now they are worth the money and are an economical and very comfortable heat. (08/26/2008)

By John Augusta

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Amy, Do you still have Hydrosil units? I am interested in buying them for a test project. Reach me at 978 nine two two 5518 or email wpmact AT gmail dot com (08/31/2008)

By Wayne Miller

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

AMY, Do you still have your hydrosils available? I'm looking for 2 portable 5 fts. Please email me at Sam524mom AT yahoo.com and let me know if they are still available. Thanks, Katie (09/02/2008)

By Katie

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Amy--If you still have your hydrosil units, please let me know: wcmjr53 AT aol.com. I'm also in NH. Thanks. (09/03/2008)

By Bill

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Are the Hydrosil units UL Listed? Maybe I missed it but I didn't see that on the website. I'd be wary of installing any electric device that is not UL Listed in my home. Thanks. (10/06/2008)

By Andy5000

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I was thinking of buying a couple hydrosils, then I found "Econo Heaters" and wow! They run cheaply! I bought 2 for less than $100.00 each. My den was so cold til I installed the first heater & then was always very warm & cozy. After a few months the switch started getting very hot & I contacted the company & they said they'd replace the entire unit but I had to pay the S&H & insurance so it was spendy.

They did send out a new unit immediately & so far that one has been ok, although you have to be extra careful of the flimsy switches. Next time, I think I'll get them hardwired & run a thermostat. They run for 3 cents an hour and the bonus (and original reason I bought one) was that they run on such low wattage that I no longer blew fuses, as I had when I was using other heaters.

I had tried a bunch of types & hated the noise, power surges, fan kicking in & lights flickering & then poof! Lol! So, the Econo heaters are excellent & I see they've recently improved them (I hope they improved the switches). I will definitely buy more and love that I can leave them on as long as I want & they make no discernible difference in my light bill. My old oil radiators really worked great but used so much electricity, and I HATE the electric heaters that kick on & blow, then kick off & suddenly the room's cold.

Those just suck up electricity and are not at all efficient & are major fire hazards. Try one Econo heater & I think you'll be hooked. One unit's supposed to heat a 10 X 10 room and they easily do. They make no sound at all. I have found that running a small fan is helpful for circulating the heat but you don't need to. This winter I will be using mine a LOT what with the high oil prices! I like the even-heat they provide.

Thanks to all who gave feedback on the Hydrosils. They sound great but they definitely use a lot more juice than Econo Heaters and much higher wattage. Plus, I'd hate to get a faulty unit & be unable to return it for a replacement. Stay snug Peeps. Check out the brutal icicles outside my window a few years back, yeck! Winter's coming, lol. (10/10/2008)

By South Dakota Chick...It's COLD here!

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I have 3 Hydrosils and would buy them again. I don't have a drafty house but it cuts down on the oil bill. Keeps the house nice and warm. My wood stove is down in the basement, my husband is disabled and can't go down the stairs. It was the best investment I have made. I plan on purchasing another 5ft. I purchased the 3 back in 2005 and two of them were not heating, I called the company he said, "box and ship them back we will send you new ones. With in 2 weeks I had 2 new ones." Life time warranty. They run all the time, the basement gets damp and my husband needs the warmth. We live in the Finger Lakes Area. I love Hydrosil. (11/29/2008)

By Susan S.

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Hydrosil Heating Question

I am considering Hydrosil heating. What is the electric consumption and cost?

Gerald

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RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

My first experience with Hydrosil was in October 2006. I ordered one five foot portable heater; received it one week later; loved it; and still love it. On 11/08/08 I finally decided to order two more five foot portable heaters for the winter. But, I did not receive my heaters until January 5, 2009! I called three times while I was waiting and was told that the holdup was because they were switching to a new digital model.

My advice is this, don't bother ordering this new digital heater, unless you like a heater that buzzes really loudly! And the digital readout screen is almost impossible to see, unless you tip the heater. The new digital model heats just fine, but it is only quiet while it is heating or cooling. Once it gets to the programmed temperature, then it buzzes and vibrates constantly. Both heaters I ordered behaved the same way!

As you know Hydrosil doesn't give back your money, so lo and behold, they said they'd send me two old style heaters instead. I never really wanted the digital kind, anyway. I just wanted to have two more heaters like I ordered in 2006.

The morale of this feedback is: Beware of the new digital models. I was told that Hydrosil will be shifting to these for all their new sales. They are not made in the USA, like the older models. They are made in China, and boy, do they sound like it! I will let you know if Hydrosil makes good on their promise to send me the older style heaters before the end of winter! (01/12/2009)

By Pittsboro, NC

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I ordered a Hydrosil Heater 5 foot portable digital model, I'm still undecided. I use this heater In a 130 square ft. room that is well insulted. I liked the idea of having a digital thermostat. The heater I had previously used in this room was the old style oil radiator electric model. I always had to adjust the heat.

I was sold on the idea of Hydrosil's digital thermostat, set it and for get it. The good news is that it does heat the room very well and is very quite. After receiving the heater I noticed that the thermostat was off by about 5 degrees. I emailed the company and they replied that it may not be large enough to adequately heat the room, they said to call them for more information. I did call and a service representative said that the sensor for the digital thermostat is located directly under the thermostat near the floor and it may be reading the floor temperature. Hum. I placed a rug under the unit and it made no difference.

I'm not sure if the heater will save me any money or not. The main reason I purchased it was because of its energy savings claim. The old oil radiator worked well, but the cost to run it was ridiculous. I guess my electric bill will tell the tail. I'm still a bit frustrated of the confusing thermostat readings. If the unit continually runs then I'm sure there will be no savings. The jury is out. I live in Indiana. (01/13/2009)

By Thomas

RE: Hydrosil Heating Comment

Beware. Hydro-Sil's ads are misleading. Their ad in Popular Science said "Lifetime Warranty" so I bought a 120 volt unit.

It was delivered in early January. We read the directions, set the thermostat and plugged it in. In "never" delivered heat to the thermostat setting. Either the heat was too high or it was far below the setting. One night we woke up to 45 degrees! And it tripped the circuit breaker on our 220 volt electric box so I called the company. I said I wanted to return the unit. I explained that we had just received our heater and its problems. The customer services person said: The unit is "not" returnable, that was on your receipt. I said, but it is defective. He said, "the unit is not returnable. Good-by." and he hung up. So do not risk losing your investment; buy from a company that stands behind their products. (01/15/2009)

By K. Lind

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

HydroSil has been on the market for 30 years and have always tried to give customers the satisfaction they deserve. If a customer has a defective unit then we replace that unit. A customer who claims that we "do not stand behind our warranty" needs to know that we will be more than happy to replace the unit. If that unit is "Buzzing" then it needs to be replaced. If there are any issues with our products customers need to call us at 1{800} 627-9276 to take care of those problems. This a issue Hydro-Sil takes very seriously and will do whatever the customer needs to resolve the issue. (01/27/2009)

By hydrosil

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

I purchased a Hydrosil heater and it worked excellently for a year or more. I recently had a problem with it. Hydrosil asked me to return it to them and they would replace it. Came home today and replacement heater was waiting for me. My problem has been solved.

Kurt from MA (02/26/2009)

By ksb68

RE: Hydrosil Heating Question

Don't bother with Hydrosil. Pure junk. I had a unit I bought several years ago and it worked beautifully. Bought another with the new digital display and it never heated the room and almost caused a fire in the outlet because it overheated. The old analog units were made in the USA. The newer models are made in China and as is the case with most things made in China, a piece of worthless crap. (06/14/2010)

By remyno