Enjoying your very own 2 person traditional sauna can be as simple as knowing its ins and outs. Of course, you might have questions about the difference between this sauna type and infrared. You might also be wondering about what you need to make your sauna work properly. Rest assured that with proper spacing and the correct heating source, you will enjoy hours of relaxation for decades to come. Here are some of the requirements of running a sauna that works traditionally.

WHAT IS THE POINT OF A SAUNA?

The sauna provides hours of relaxation but also has a host of other benefits as well. From soothing sore muscles to weight loss and detox, the sauna has several reasons for its use. Here are a few of them:

• Promotes tranquility and relaxation
• Assistance with stress relief
• Stronger immune system
• Better prepared respiratory system
• Assistance with weight loss
• Youthful, glowing skin 

DRY SAUNA VS STEAM SAUNA

INFRARED (DRY)

• This sauna type uses infrared heaters for direct heat on the body. 
• You absorb these infrared rays, which makes your core temperature rise.
• If you suffer from heat sensitivity, this sauna is a better choice for you.
• This sauna type also provides a host of detoxification benefits. 
• Your metabolism increases as you use this sauna type. This is because direct heat rays make your heart rate faster. 
• As a result, your body benefits as if you are doing a light workout. 

TRADITIONAL (WET)

• Many sauna fans prefer this sauna type because it is similar to the first saunas ever built. 
• It works by using a sauna heater to warm sauna stones. 
• You pour water over sauna rocks to create steam. The steam increases the humidity and temperature. This is responsible for making you sweat. 
• As a result, you will notice respiratory system improvement. You will also notice that your lungs are clearer and your breathing is better.   
• The two types of sauna heaters are wood-burning and electric. 

4 2-PERSON TRADITIONAL SAUNA REQUIREMENTS

1. SPACE

First, you should decide if you want your sauna inside or outside the home. Next, be sure that you have ample space for it. Here are some areas that work great for sauna placement and a little more information:

Inside the Home:

• Basement
• Upstairs area
• Attic
• Small bathroom
• Storage Closet

Outside the Home:

• Garage
• Pre-existing building 
• Garden area

Sauna In the Basement

Putting your sauna in the basement works because you are secluded from the noise and distraction of your home. You also save valuable room space. Here are a few tips for basement placement:

• If your basement is damp, avoid this option.  
• You will not have to worry about drastic temperature changes. The materials used to build your investment are designed to withstand temperature changes. 
• Due to no insulation, warm-up time may take longer than normal. 

When building a sauna in the basement, follow the next 4 steps:

1. Use a corner for sauna placement if you can. Two of the four walls will already be in place.
2. Know the exact measurements of the area first to make choosing your design easier. 
3. Saunas that use infrared and saunas with an electric heater work best in the basement area. All types are appropriate, though. 
4. For heat generator installation, hire a professional. You want to be sure that the process of installation is correct due to safety codes and features.

You can use these tips for sauna placement in the garage as well.

You will have access to a changing room and cool down area as well. 

You and your guests will be able to move freely without restrictions. 

Instead of a drain, you can use a drip board. 

All you need is two vents for more than enough fresh air. 

Placing Your Indoor Sauna Upstairs

You can safely put your sauna upstairs. Pre-built sauna kits are lightweight, maling them easy to carry upstairs for installation. 

If you put your sauna downstairs and change your mind, this is okay.  Breaking your sauna down and moving it is simple. Assembly is easy because you will already have the knowledge you need to put the sauna back together. 

2. HEAT SOURCE 

To operate your 2-person traditional sauna, you need a source of heat. You can use either a wood-burning stove or an electric heater. Both work efficiently, so your choice will be a matter of preference. 

WOOD-BURNING SAUNA HEATER

The wood-burning sauna heater is often preferred by sauna pros. With its pleasant woody aroma and the ambiance provided, sauna sessions are more enjoyable. 

• You need firewood for this type of sauna heater. 
• Controlling the temperature in your sauna might be hard for you at first. As you learn how your sauna works, it will eventually be easier to operate.

ELECTRIC SAUNA HEATER 

The electric sauna heater works just as well as the wood-burning option. It needs 220 volts of electricity to heat your sauna. 

• For this style of heater, make sure that you put your sauna in an area where wiring is possible. 
• You may need the help of a trained electrician to help you with wiring your sauna properly.

3. PROPER INSULATION & VENTILATION 

Most pre-built saunas do not need insulation. The barrel, pod, and kota styles do not require it. For example, the Almost Heaven Grandview Barrel Sauna does not need to be insulated. If you decide to use a pre-existing building or start from scratch, you need proper insulation.

• The floor and ceiling of your sauna both need insulation. The walls will need it too. 
• If you decide to use fiberglass to insulate your sauna, keep in mind that this can be dangerous if not handled carefully.
• Recycled cotton is the safer alternative. Shredded old jeans are a great option for insulation. 
• For heat retention, you will need a foil vapor barrier.
• Lastly, make sure that your vents are installed the right way and working before you decide to use your sauna. 

4. CHIMNEY KIT 

• If you use a wood-burning heater, you need a chimney installation kit. 
• This allows you to vent your heater, pushing harmful smoke or gases out through the top of your sauna. 
• It also helps your heater work properly and keeps it long-lasting. 
• This kit can be used with any Harvia wood-burning stove. 
• You can purchase separate pieces from the kit as needed or use the entire kit. 

Keep these helpful tips and tricks in mind during installation: 

1. Decide if you want your chimney to run through the sidewall or roof. 
2. Use a double wall chimney system, preferably metal, for the safest option. 
3. Pick whichever pitched ceiling support kit best suits your specific chimney needs. 
4. To finish setting your chimney, use sheet metal roofing, silicone roofing cement, and a plumb bob. 

SUMMARY

Your new therapeutic investment will provide soothing relief and a host of benefits just for developing a relaxation routine. Be sure to provide enough space for your new heat therapy tool so that you can enjoy your sweet escape comfortably. Through proper heating, insulation, and ventilation, your sauna will provide you with healing and tranquility time and time again. Keep these helpful tips in mind as you choose the perfect 2-person traditional sauna for your needs.