Saunas offer a sanctuary where you can sweat away the stress of the day, and they’re also known for a variety of health benefits. However, not all saunas are created equal, and a major factor that sets them apart is the type of heater they use.
Two of the most common types of sauna heaters are electric and infrared. If you’re looking to install a sauna in your home or just want to learn more, understanding the differences between these types of sauna heaters can help you make the right choice.
Electric Sauna Heaters
The Modern Favorite
Electric sauna heaters are by far the most popular option for home saunas. They are easy to use, widely available, and relatively simple to install. You just plug them in, set your temperature, and they take care of the rest.
How It Works
Electric heaters use metal coils to heat the air in the sauna. You can usually place sauna stones on top of the heater to enhance the experience. These stones can be doused with water to create steam, increasing the humidity inside the sauna. Most electric heaters come with a control panel, which allows you to easily adjust the temperature and even pre-program the sauna to heat up at specific times.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Electric heaters are convenient and require little maintenance. They heat up quickly, and most models allow precise control of temperature. They’re also available in a wide range of sizes to suit different sauna setups.
- Cons: Electric heaters can be costly to operate, depending on local energy rates. Some users also feel that the heat they produce is too dry without the addition of steam from sauna stones.
Infrared Sauna Heaters
The Tech-Savvy Option
Infrared sauna heaters are a relatively new development in sauna technology. Instead of heating the air, infrared heaters use light to directly heat your body. This leads to a very different sauna experience compared to traditional sauna heaters, but one that many people find just as enjoyable – if not more so.
How It Works
Infrared heaters emit infrared light, which penetrates your skin and warms your body from the inside out. This type of heating doesn’t rely on heating the air, so the temperature inside the sauna is generally lower than in traditional saunas. However, you’ll still sweat just as much (if not more), because the infrared waves reach deeper into your body.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Infrared saunas heat up quickly and are energy-efficient. Since they operate at a lower temperature, they’re more comfortable for people who find traditional saunas too hot. Many users also claim they feel more benefits like detoxification and muscle relief from infrared heaters.
- Cons: The lower temperature and lack of steam make the experience feel less “authentic” to some sauna purists. Additionally, infrared saunas don’t offer the same ambiance as wood or electric heaters.
Choosing the right sauna heater depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. If you enjoy intense heat and steam, go with an electric sauna heater. If you prefer a gentler heat that still packs a punch, an infrared sauna might be more your style. Just be sure to pick the one that aligns best with your space, lifestyle, and sauna preferences!
