Infrared vs. Traditional
Infrared saunas heat your body directly with radiant panels at lower air temperatures (120–150°F), making them gentle and energy-efficient. Traditional saunas heat the air and stones (150–195°F) for that classic, steamy löyly when you pour water over the rocks. If you want a deep, dry sweat at lower heat, go infrared. If you crave authentic ritual and steam, go traditional.
Sizing for Your Space
Measure your space and think about how many people will use it. A 1–2 person unit fits most homes and plugs into a standard outlet. 3–4 person and larger units typically need a 240V dedicated circuit. Always leave clearance for ventilation and the door swing.
Features Worth Paying For
Chromotherapy lighting, Bluetooth audio, and WiFi controls genuinely elevate the daily experience. Low-EMF heaters matter for infrared. For traditional, prioritise heater quality and stone capacity for richer steam.
Installation
Most home saunas are pre-fabricated and assemble in a few hours. Outdoor barrel and cabin saunas may benefit from white glove delivery and a level pad. Always use a licensed electrician for hardwired heaters.