We have an addition a previous owner built. It's 15'x19', built on a slab with 2x8 joists (no basement). We're remodeling it, including replacing the floor. Thus I'll have access to the floor joists.

Currently the room is heated by a 9' electric baseboard heater, and it does a fair job of heating the room. We're in Pittsburgh, PA, so heat is need from October-ish to April-ish. My best guess is that the current heater adds about $100/month during the coldest months (Jan & Feb).

I'm looking for suggestions for a better heating alternative, if there is one. Some of the options I have, I believe are:
1. Tie in current home duct work, but that would mean increasing the capacity of the current whole-house heater and air conditioner.
2. Radiant heating, but I would think that I may not make up the cost of install with any energy savings.
3. Buy a more efficient electric heater.

Any other suggestions that I can research?

Thanks!

 

increasing insulation and decreasing outside air infiltration will give you the most bang for your buck.

 

A R-19 in the floor joist. Paper to the room side. Would sure help