How to Install an Electric Towel Warmer: Hardwired & Plug-in

Hello, thank you so much for joining us for today's webinar. My name is Lynn, and I'm a customer service representative here at WarmlyYours. I am joined by Scott, also from WarmlyYours. Thanks for joining us. Today, we're discussing our electric towel warmers, specifically our hardwired and plug-in models. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. You can do so either in the sidebar chat or at the bottom of the screen in the Ask a Question module. If we don't see it right away, we'll definitely get to it and answer it by the end of the presentation. For those watching us on Facebook, feel free to type into the live chat there as well.

We will cover various types of towel warmers, including our new Dual Connect models, installation procedures for both hardwired and plug-in types, and the control options available. Towel warmers have been popular in Europe for quite some time and are gaining traction in the United States. All of our towel warmers are electric, utilizing electric radiant heat to warm towels, robes, and clothes. They are easy to install, whether you choose hardwired or plug-in options. One of the best aspects of towel warmers is that they bring a spa-like experience into your home, providing a touch of luxury. Imagine stepping out of the shower in the morning and having a warm towel ready for you, all without significant cost or labor. Additionally, these units can be controlled with a timer, allowing you to set them to turn on automatically.

Scott, could you explain where we recommend installing towel warmers in a bathroom? The National Electric Code prohibits placing them in wet locations, such as inside a shower stall or bathtub enclosure. The idea is to ensure that you are not standing in water when reaching for a towel. Since these towel warmers operate on line voltage, which means they use 120 volts, safety is paramount. Therefore, it’s essential to install them in areas where water will not come into contact with the unit. Some may ask if they can place a towel warmer at the far end of a large shower enclosure, but if it is still within the enclosure, it is not permitted. The towel warmer should be installed in a location where you can safely reach for the towels without being in water, and it must be connected to a GFCI-protected circuit.

There are several types of towel warmers available: electric, hydronic, and electric hydronic. Hydronic units have been popular in Europe for many years and are connected to the home’s boiler system to circulate hot water through the towel warmer. However, installing hydronic units can be more complicated, as it involves plumbing, which is often more difficult than running electrical wiring. In the United States, electric towel warmers are more common. A common question we receive is whether our units contain oil or water. Our electric units use a cartridge heater, similar to those used in older coffee makers, which heats the towel warmer without the need for water. Unlike electric hydronic units, which can be slower to heat due to water circulation, our towel warmers heat up quickly and evenly without any risk of leaks or spills.

Our most popular towel warmer models have been upgraded to include a new dual connection option. This feature allows a single towel warmer to be modified on-site by an electrician, enabling it to switch from a plug-in unit to a hardwired unit. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those living in apartments where electrical wiring cannot be easily modified. With a dual connection unit, you can install it, plug it in, and easily remove it when moving. The conversion from plug-in to hardwired is straightforward; an electrician simply needs to cut off the plug and leave enough power cord to connect to the wall.

It's important to note that the electrical connections for these towel warmers are made inside the leg of the unit, which provides a cleaner look without the need for a separate wall plate. The National Electric Code does not require a wall plate as long as the towel warmer has a compartment for wiring connections. If your electrician insists on a wall box, it’s worth verifying with them, as local codes may vary.

Another significant feature of our new models is the TempSmart overheat protection, which prevents the unit's temperature from exceeding 176 degrees Fahrenheit. This feature protects against burns and potential discoloration of towels. The power switch is conveniently located at the bottom right of the towel warmer, and it's essential for users to be aware of its presence. Many customers overlook this switch, leading to confusion about why the unit isn't heating. When the unit is powered on, a blue light indicates that electricity is flowing to the towel warmer.

For optimal performance, we recommend using a maximum of two towels on the warmer. Overloading the unit can trap heat and affect its efficiency. The towel warmer typically reaches its maximum temperature within about an hour, so if you shower at the same time each day, you can turn it on an hour before to ensure your towels are warm when you need them.

We will discuss our various control options later in the presentation. The current models we offer with dual connect options come in several styles and designs, and they are among our most popular products. It's important to note that some units come with wall plates while others do not, so be sure to check the product details on our website.

When installing a hardwired connection, start by pre-assembling the towel warmer. We recommend using the installation manual to ensure all parts are included and to assemble the unit on a protected surface to avoid scratches. Use the box the towel warmer came in as a template for mounting. Local codes typically require the towel warmer to be at least 24 inches away from the edge of a tub enclosure, but this can vary.

When creating a template for installation, it’s crucial to measure accurately, as no two towel warmers are exactly the same. Small variations in manufacturing can affect the fit, so using the box as a guide will help ensure a proper installation. The template will also allow you to visualize the towel warmer's placement on the wall and determine the best height and angle for installation.

Once the mounting brackets are installed, ensure that the power leg is positioned correctly, usually in the bottom right corner. If you decide to flip the towel warmer, the power connection will move to the upper left corner. It’s essential to communicate this with your electrician to ensure proper installation.

After the towel warmer is mounted, the electrician will handle the wiring connections. The unit will come with four legs, but one leg will be attached to the unit by a cord due to the plug. If converting to hardwired, the electrician will cut the plug off and route the wire through the leg for a clean installation.

For plug-in connections, the installation process is similar, but you must ensure the unit is positioned near an electrical outlet. The goal is to avoid having a long cord dangling down the wall, which can detract from the overall appearance.

Once the installation is complete, remember to turn on the power switch. It’s easy to forget this step, but it’s essential for the unit to function properly. Experiment with different towel placements to find the most effective way to maximize warmth. Bath sheets, for example, may require different arrangements compared to standard bath towels.

We also offer a variety of control options for both plug-in and hardwired models. Our hardwired Wi-Fi switch allows you to control the towel warmer via an app on your phone, while the programmable timer lets you set specific times for operation. The four-setting countdown timer is ideal for those who want a simple solution, automatically turning off after a set period.

We appreciate your participation in our webinar and encourage you to reach out with any questions. If you would like a complimentary quote, please contact us. Our website is a treasure trove of information about our products, including installation videos for towel warmers. Thank you for joining us today, and we look forward to seeing you at our next webinar. Until then, stay warm and be radiant!