Sauna Heaters - A Choice of Electric, Gas and Wood Burning Heaters

Sauna Heaters – Your Sauna’s Heartbeat

Are All Sauna Heaters Equal?

What are My Choices in Sauna Heaters?

The choices are: electric, wood-burning and gas. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages which are dependent upon where you live and what your specific preferences and needs are. Far Infrared Heaters are another choice and are in growing demand.

Are Rocks Necessary in a Sauna Room?

Rocks are needed in order to store the heat coming from the heater and to create steam when water is poured over them. Just a little water is all that is necessary, so the use of a ladle to pour the water over the rocks is recommended. The rocks also filter the heat from the heater and create what is often referred to as a softer heat.

The rocks used on your heater should be the correct type of rocks intended for use in a sauna. They should be not too small or too large. They also should not be to light or porous as they will crack.

Before using the rocks it is just as well to rinse them off, and remove all the dust that is sure to accompany them, and then leave the Sauna Door open during its first use in order to rid the room of any smell. The rocks need to be checked once or twice a year, and re stacked. Depending on use, rocks may need to be replaced about every two or more years.

Be extremely careful about what fragrances you put onto the rocks – some may ignite!

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters seem to be the most popular Sauna Heater. They are

clean, easy to control and are cost effective to operate. They can be used anywhere, inside or outside.

A normal electric heater consists of a heating element along with a tray to hold the heated rocks. As the rocks heat up the heat radiates outwards and heats up the whole sauna – including you. Obviously, it is important that the size of your heater matches the size of your Sauna Room. An attached thermostat will monitor the heat and see that your Sauna Room is the correct temperature.

Rocks should not be placed too tightly as this may mess with the thermostat. Also, air flow through the bottom of the heater should not be restricted.

Heaters will come with installation guidelines and safety requirements. All minimum distances should be adhered to in order to lessen the possibility of fire. No need to mention that a qualified and certified trades person should be responsible for installation.

Gas Heaters

If you have limited time but still want to experience the health benefits of a Home Sauna, a gas heater will possibly be your best choice. These heaters reach the required temperature in a comparatively short time span.

While gas heaters require a considerably higher initial investment, they may well work out cheaper in the long run. These heaters give an almost instant heat that is easily regulated. Your gas heater can use propane or natural gas. With all gas heaters it is necessary to ensure that they are kept in good condition and installation must be done by a certified trades person.

Installing a gas sauna heater is similar to installing a gas stove – safety requirements need to be adhered to for both.

Commercial Saunas and Gas

Many commercial saunas use a gas heating system, as the saunas run for lengthy periods and gas is more economical. A good gas heater is usually constructed of stainless steel, which resists high temperatures, moisture and corrosion.

Wood Burning Heaters

If you want a truly traditional experience, then a wood burning heater is for you. If you have an outside sauna this may be your best choice, providing you with an authentic and relaxing Home Sauna experience.

Cost will depend on your particular situation – do you have the wood or will you have to buy it? It is not as easy to set a temperature control on a wood stove as it is with electric or gas.

Every wood stove needs a chimney made either from masonry or insulated metal. Properly constructed, there should be no problem with smoke. The taller the better and the least bends it has the better it will function. It will also need protective covering to keep the birds out.

Stovepipe is used only to make the connection between a free-standing wood stove and the masonry or metal chimney. It is not to be used as a chimney itself by having it pass through walls or windows.

Most stovepipes should be 18 inches from a combustible wall, ceiling or any furniture. This can be reduced if the appropriate protective material is used. The stovepipe needs to be attached securely to the chimney – no quick jobs!

Some points worth mentioning for wood burning heaters are:

Use only dry wood for the heater

Make sure the air dampener is adjusted correctly to allow enough air
flow to provide oxygen for combustion

Wood burning heaters may create more pollution in the form of smoke
and soot than other heaters

If there is too much smoke from the chimney, the heater is not working
efficiently

Softwoods contain more resin which will create a smokey odor

Don't use painted or chemically treated wood

Best Choice in Sauna Heaters

After choosing which of these Sauna Heaters is best for you and before making your final decision, make a good comparison of the brands available in terms of cost, quality (materials and durability), installation requirements, warranty as well as availability of parts and service.

Some functions to take into consideration are regarding Sauna Heaters are:

digital control

mist control

time and temperature control

tray for water leakage

Take care of your sauna’s heartbeat and your sauna will take care of yours.

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