EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BUYING AN INFRARED SAUNA
There are tons of options when it comes to finding an infrared sauna, and trying to select the best type of wood or heater can be an overwhelming exercise.
To help, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about infrared saunas, including infrared heater types, sizes & shapes available, sauna materials, and additional add-ons. By the time you’re done with this article, you should know everything you need to know about Infrared Saunas.
TYPES OF INFRARED SAUNA HEATERS
There are three main types of infrared sauna heaters you can choose from.
1. CARBON HEATERS
Carbon heaters produce long wave infrared heat and they’re known for their safety, efficiency, and emit a gentle yet powerful heat. The heat is evenly distributed throughout the sauna and tends to provide the body with even heat exposure.
Carbon fiber heaters (like the one used in this Maxxus 2-person sauna) offer 40% more efficiency than ceramic heaters. In general, they are more durable with a significantly lower risk of damage or breaking because carbon panels are not as fragile as ceramic. This also allows carbon heaters to endure the high-temperature environment and offer a longer lifespan.
While infrared saunas that use carbon heaters are energy-efficient and offer a longer lifespan, they are not as affordable as their ceramic counterpart.
2. CERAMIC HEATERS
Ceramic heaters heat ceramic rods until they get red hot. Ceramic heaters are known for the immediate efficiency in heating your sauna as they can produce a high quantity of heat in such a short time span.
However, because of ceramic heaters efficiency, they can also reach high temperatures very quickly. Ceramic heaters tend to offer shorter lifespan than other options (though still decades-long), due to the possibility of shattering or cracking of the ceramic material.
These heaters are efficient at conserving energy and offer lower purchasing costs in comparison to carbon heaters. This TheraSauna 2-person sauna is a great example of a ceramic heater infrared sauna.
3. CARBON/CERAMIC COMBINATION
The carbon/ceramic combo heaters can offer the best of both worlds. They provide the safety and durability of carbon and the quick-heating capability and affordability of the carbon-ceramic infrared combo.
SIZES, SHAPES, AND MATERIALS OF INFRARED SAUNAS
You can get infrared saunas in all shapes, sizes, and materials to fit the aesthetics of your home. Infrared saunas are available in super-compact, one-person sizes all the way up to 6-person sizes. Here is a brief description of sizes and materials:
Some of the popular Infrared sauna shapes and sizes are:
The compact 1 to 2 person size, like the Almost Heaven Radiant 2-3 Person Infrared Sauna
Almost Heaven Radiant 2-3 Person Infrared Sauna
A Radiant Series Infrared Sauna allows you to relax in the ambiance of dry, long-wave warmth produced by extra-wide carbon fiber heating panels, similar to the warmth produced by the sun. Furthermore, an infrared sauna can be installed in any dry space, including carpeted bedrooms. Beautiful hemlock construction, soft lighting, Bluetooth audio, and a light therapy feature all combine to provide you with this infrared therapy series that’s exceptional in every way.
The Radiant Series Infrared Saunas are available in the United States exclusively through Almost Heaven Saunas. Due to the precise fit of every component, there are no visible external fasteners or buckles to detract from the simple elegance of the sauna. It is operated using a digital interior/exterior control panel that adjusts temperature, timing, lighting, and audio inside the sauna. These saunas are equipped for USB and Bluetooth audio, and they also have a built-in radio. The interior provides plenty of headroom too. The Radiant Series saunas have extra-wide triple-layer carbon fiber heating panels that provide full-body far infrared therapy. These units are easy to assemble, they heat up fast, and they’re low EMF to boot.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Hemlock construction.
Extra interior height
Backlit red cedar accent
Interior light
Stylish design and accents
Triple-layer carbon fiber heating panels
Extra-large heating panels for maximum heat delivery
Full-body surround heating
Fast heat-up time
Digital temperature and timer control
110V, 20-amp electrical requirement
Multi-color, high-intensity light therapy
Bluetooth audio system
USB plug-in
Electronic interior and exterior controls
Tempered glass door
Stainless steel hinges
Easy assembly by two people
Low EMF
ETL Listed
1-year components warrantyFREE shipping almost anywhere within the continental United States
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Capacity: 2 Persons
Assembled Dimensions: 47?W x 41?D x 75?H
Bench Width: 20?
Power: 2020W
A Radiant Series Infrared Sauna allows you to relax in the ambiance of dry, long-wave warmth produced by extra-wide carbon fiber heating panels, similar to the warmth produced by the sun. Furthermore, an infrared sauna can be installed in any dry space, including carpeted bedrooms. Beautiful hemlock construction, soft lighting, Bluetooth audio, and a light therapy feature all combine to provide you with this infrared therapy series that’s exceptional in every way.
The Radiant Series Infrared Saunas are available in the United States exclusively through Almost Heaven Saunas. Due to the precise fit of every component, there are no visible external fasteners or buckles to detract from the simple elegance of the sauna. It is operated using a digital interior/exterior control panel that adjusts temperature, timing, lighting, and audio inside the sauna. These saunas are equipped for USB and Bluetooth audio, and they also have a built-in radio. The interior provides plenty of headroom too. The Radiant Series saunas have extra-wide triple-layer carbon fiber heating panels that provide full-body far infrared therapy. These units are easy to assemble, they heat up fast, and they’re low EMF to boot.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Hemlock construction.
Extra interior height
Backlit red cedar accent
Interior light
Stylish design and accents
Triple-layer carbon fiber heating panels
Extra-large heating panels for maximum heat delivery
Full-body surround heating
Fast heat-up time
Digital temperature and timer control
110V, 20-amp electrical requirement
Multi-color, high-intensity light therapy
Bluetooth audio system
USB plug-in
Electronic interior and exterior controls
Tempered glass door
Stainless steel hinges
Easy assembly by two people
Low EMF
ETL Listed
1-year components warrantyFREE shipping almost anywhere within the continental United States
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Capacity: 2 Persons
Assembled Dimensions: 47?W x 41?D x 75?H
Bench Width: 20?
Power: 2020W
Corner shape design, like this one from Golden Design Saunas:
Maxxus "Chaumont Edition" 3 Person Corner Near Zero EMF FAR Infrared Sauna - Canadian Red Cedar
Every Maxxus Sauna is equipped with a reduced wattage floor and lower bench heater to allow the same benefits and treatment to your legs and feet without the burning sensation of other sauna manufacturers. Enjoy your sauna session with your favorite music through the sauna's built-in FM radio, CD, Bluetooth, and MP3 auxiliary connection with speakers. Maxxus Saunas enhances your sauna experience with Chromotherapy (color therapy) lighting system.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Full 3 person capacity
Exterior dimensions (WDH): 60" x 60" x 75" (roof overhang: 9.4")
Interior dimensions (WDH): 56" x 56" x 68"
Natural Canadian red cedar construction
Tempered glass door and 2 full length side windows
Interior color therapy lighting
9 Carbon PureTech™ Near Zero EMF Heat Emitters (Heating Panels)
Roof vent
Interior LED control panel
FM Radio with BT, MP3 auxiliary, SD and USB connection
Electrical service: 110V/20amp dedicated receptacle (consult a certified electrician)
Clasp together assembly
Sauna weight: 380 lbs.
Shipping weight: 488 lbs.
Ships in 3 boxes
Model: MX-K356-01-ZF CED
Every Maxxus Sauna is equipped with a reduced wattage floor and lower bench heater to allow the same benefits and treatment to your legs and feet without the burning sensation of other sauna manufacturers. Enjoy your sauna session with your favorite music through the sauna's built-in FM radio, CD, Bluetooth, and MP3 auxiliary connection with speakers. Maxxus Saunas enhances your sauna experience with Chromotherapy (color therapy) lighting system.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Full 3 person capacity
Exterior dimensions (WDH): 60" x 60" x 75" (roof overhang: 9.4")
Interior dimensions (WDH): 56" x 56" x 68"
Natural Canadian red cedar construction
Tempered glass door and 2 full length side windows
Interior color therapy lighting
9 Carbon PureTech™ Near Zero EMF Heat Emitters (Heating Panels)
Roof vent
Interior LED control panel
FM Radio with BT, MP3 auxiliary, SD and USB connection
Electrical service: 110V/20amp dedicated receptacle (consult a certified electrician)
Clasp together assembly
Sauna weight: 380 lbs.
Shipping weight: 488 lbs.
Ships in 3 boxes
Model: MX-K356-01-ZF CED
Classic cabin-shaped infrared saunas, like this TheraSauna Infrared Sauna for 4 people:
TheraSauna 4 Person TS8454 Far Infrared Sauna
The only FAR infrared sauna in the world with a patented onboard computer system for constant infrared emission. TheraSauna® uses proprietary, high glass-content, solid-ceramic TheraMitters™ at the proper watt/density for deep body penetration to induce profuse sweating and thereby detoxifying the human body. Solid ceramic heaters have a 96% radiant efficiency rating. Therasauna is made in the U.S.A. with the patented control system that allows for complete control and the ability to consistently reach the desired far-infrared micron level of 9.4.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Our patented StableHeat™ technology helps create the most constant and beneficial levels of far infrared
TheraSauna® is the only company to use aspen hardwood, which is non-toxic and non-allergenic
Our saunas utilize high glass content solid ceramic TheraMitters™ that meet or exceed manufacturer specifications to provide the best and most beneficial levels of infrared
Micron Power Select™ allows you to vary the infrared output from each TheraMitter™ zone and control the infrared micron range during your sauna session
TheraSauna® meets the electrical requirements to be ETL and CE certified in the US, Canada, and Europe.
TheraSauna® emits very low levels of EMF, compared to the high levels of EMF produced by saunas using less efficient carbon fiber materials and rod TheraMitters™.
TheraSauna®'s parent company, QCA Spas, is the only certified American manufacturer of far infrared saunas and has been in business since 1966
THERASAUNA TS8454 4 PERSON STRAIGHT BENCH INFRARED SAUNA FEATURES:
Dimensions: 86.75" W x 52" D x 78" H
Wood: Non-toxic Aspen Wood
Controls: Patented MPS 7 Day Programmable Touchview Control
Heaters: 12 Solid Ceramic TheraMitters
Backrest: Ergonomic, Contoured Backrest
Bench: Reversible Bench (Flat & Curved)
Door: Smoke Glass Door with Two Front Windows, Two Side Windows, and TheraSauna® Logo
Electrical: Plugs into 120 Volt / 20 Amp Outlet
Watts: 2016 watts
Exterior: Warm Mahogany Clear Seal Finish or Natural Aspen Finish
Interior: Tongue & Groove Interior
Light: Elegant, Dimmable Sconce Light, 60 Watt Bulb
System: Patented StableHeat System™
Vent: Ceiling Vent
Meets/Exceeds ETL and CE safety requirements
The only FAR infrared sauna in the world with a patented onboard computer system for constant infrared emission. TheraSauna® uses proprietary, high glass-content, solid-ceramic TheraMitters™ at the proper watt/density for deep body penetration to induce profuse sweating and thereby detoxifying the human body. Solid ceramic heaters have a 96% radiant efficiency rating. Therasauna is made in the U.S.A. with the patented control system that allows for complete control and the ability to consistently reach the desired far-infrared micron level of 9.4.
PRODUCT FEATURES:
Our patented StableHeat™ technology helps create the most constant and beneficial levels of far infrared
TheraSauna® is the only company to use aspen hardwood, which is non-toxic and non-allergenic
Our saunas utilize high glass content solid ceramic TheraMitters™ that meet or exceed manufacturer specifications to provide the best and most beneficial levels of infrared
Micron Power Select™ allows you to vary the infrared output from each TheraMitter™ zone and control the infrared micron range during your sauna session
TheraSauna® meets the electrical requirements to be ETL and CE certified in the US, Canada, and Europe.
TheraSauna® emits very low levels of EMF, compared to the high levels of EMF produced by saunas using less efficient carbon fiber materials and rod TheraMitters™.
TheraSauna®'s parent company, QCA Spas, is the only certified American manufacturer of far infrared saunas and has been in business since 1966
THERASAUNA TS8454 4 PERSON STRAIGHT BENCH INFRARED SAUNA FEATURES:
Dimensions: 86.75" W x 52" D x 78" H
Wood: Non-toxic Aspen Wood
Controls: Patented MPS 7 Day Programmable Touchview Control
Heaters: 12 Solid Ceramic TheraMitters
Backrest: Ergonomic, Contoured Backrest
Bench: Reversible Bench (Flat & Curved)
Door: Smoke Glass Door with Two Front Windows, Two Side Windows, and TheraSauna® Logo
Electrical: Plugs into 120 Volt / 20 Amp Outlet
Watts: 2016 watts
Exterior: Warm Mahogany Clear Seal Finish or Natural Aspen Finish
Interior: Tongue & Groove Interior
Light: Elegant, Dimmable Sconce Light, 60 Watt Bulb
System: Patented StableHeat System™
Vent: Ceiling Vent
Meets/Exceeds ETL and CE safety requirements
MATERIALS
Infrared saunas come in three major varieties of material.
HEMLOCK
Hemlock wood is the most popular choice of material for infrared saunas due to its light color and affordability. Hemlock wood is shrink resistant giving it a longer life span compared to its counterparts. It also resists splitting and cracking.
When it comes to the health aspect, hemlock is non-toxic, non-allergenic with little to no aroma, which creates an enjoyable and beneficial atmosphere for your body during sauna sessions.
RED CEDAR
Red cedar is a popular infrared sauna material choice. Although it is more expensive, it offers extreme strength and lighter weight in comparison to hemlock. Most sauna users find red cedar’s intense aroma adds a pleasurable addition to their infrared sauna experience.
ASPEN HARDWOOD
Aspen is a clear wood that comes from the trees grown at high elevations. It is non-toxic and is completely free from any aroma, natural oils, and resins that may cause discomfort for some sauna users. Because of that, it is the material of choice for Finnish hospital saunas.
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AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES AND CUSTOMIZATIONS
For avid infrared sauna users, you should consider adding customizations and accessories to complete the ease and benefits of your experience.
IONIZER FAN
An ionizer fan, also known as air ionizer or oxygen ionizer removes odors, microbes, and particulates from the air in your infrared sauna. An Air ionizer can help make the air within the sauna healthier for use, especially if you have allergies or suffer from asthma or other respiratory-related health issues. Available on these TheraSauna models.
ACCESSORY KIT
The accessory kit for an infrared sauna includes a magazine rack, towel hanger, and cup holder. Enjoy added convenience with a designated place for your towel or robe, your reading materials, and of course, your all-important water source.
CONCLUSION
Whether you are looking for a specific type, style, or material for your infrared sauna, or just trying to figure out the options available, we hope this guide will help you get started. If you have any questions about finding the perfect infrared sauna for your needs, please
reach out to us or use the chat option on this page.