Cedar Barrel Saunas

Your sauna experience revolves around one crucial component—the heater. It sets the temperature, steam level, and overall ambiance. With several options available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Let’s break it down.

Types of Sauna Heaters

There are three main types of sauna heaters, each with its own benefits:

1. Electric Sauna Heaters – The most popular choice for luxury indoor saunas. They heat up quickly, are easy to control, and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for home use.

2. Wood-Burning Sauna Heaters – Ideal for those who love a traditional sauna experience. They provide deep, even heat and a natural ambiance with crackling wood, but they require proper ventilation.

3. Infrared Sauna Heaters – Instead of heating the air, infrared heaters directly warm your body using infrared light. They operate at lower temperatures, offering a gentler sauna session.

Choosing the Right Heater Size

The size of your sauna determines the power of the heater you’ll need:

• Small saunas (up to 4’ x 6’): 3-4.5 kW
• Medium saunas (6’ x 8’): 6-7.5 kW
• Large saunas (8’ x 10’ or bigger): 9-12 kW

Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the best fit.

Do You Want Steam?

If you enjoy traditional, steamy sauna sessions, choose a heater that allows you to pour water over heated sauna stones. Both electric and wood-burning heaters provide this feature. Infrared heaters, on the other hand, produce dry heat without steam.

Efficiency & Heat-Up Time

• Electric heaters warm up in 20-30 minutes, making them a quick and convenient choice.
• Wood-burning heaters take longer but provide long-lasting, deep heat.
• Infrared heaters heat up almost instantly, though they don’t reach traditional sauna temperatures.

If you prefer instant heat, go for an electric or infrared heater. For a slower, more immersive experience, wood-burning is the way to go.

Installation & Maintenance

• Electric heaters require professional installation and a dedicated circuit.
• Wood-burning heaters need proper ventilation and a chimney.
• Infrared heaters are plug-and-play, making them the easiest to install.

For low-maintenance options, electric and infrared heaters are best. If you enjoy tending to a fire, a wood-burning heater adds a rewarding, rustic touch.

Final Thoughts

The best sauna heater for you depends on your space, heat preference, and lifestyle.

• For convenience and efficiency: Go electric.
• For a traditional experience: Choose wood-burning.
• For gentle, low-heat therapy: Opt for infrared.

Pick the one that fits your needs and enjoy a relaxing sauna experience!