Should I Get an Infrared or Traditional Sauna?
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Time to read 3 min
The #1 question when considering a sauna for your home is: Should I get an Infrared or Traditional sauna? Both options offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your preferences, budget, and intended use. Let’s break down the key considerations to help you decide.
Key Questions to Consider
To choose the right sauna, start by answering these questions:
- Indoor or outdoor?
- Infrared, traditional, or hybrid?
- What size sauna do you need?
- What are your electrical requirements or limitations?
Price
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas are typically more affordable than traditional saunas, offering a convenient entry point for first-time buyers. With over 15 years of advancements, these saunas now come in easy-to-install, plug-and-play designs. You can get started with a basic indoor infrared sauna for as little as $2,500 , which plugs into a standard 15-amp outlet.
Factors affecting infrared sauna cost:
- Lower EMF (Electromagnetic Field) technology
- High-quality wood materials
- Higher maximum temperature settings
- Extended warranties
For larger saunas (3+ people), you may need a 20-amp circuit and potentially an electrician for installation. At this point, you might wonder if a traditional sauna is worth considering instead.
Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas are generally more expensive upfront. Prices start around $4,800 for indoor models before installation costs. These saunas use 240v electric stoves requiring a certified electrician, which adds $1,000–$5,000 to the overall cost, depending on your electrical setup.
Example Cost Breakdown for a Traditional Sauna:
- 2-3 Person Indoor Sauna Kit: $4,000
- Basic Sauna Heater: $1,000
- Electrical Installation: $2,000
- DIY Assembly: $0
Total Cost: $7,000
Hiring professionals for assembly increases the cost to $9,000–$10,000 for larger models.
Benefits
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, typically around 120°F–150°F , making them more comfortable for extended use. They heat the body directly using infrared light, which penetrates deep into tissues, offering the following benefits:
- Detoxification: Activates sweat glands for deep cleansing (Inouye & Kabaya, 1989).
- Improved circulation and metabolism (Huang et al., 2015).
- Reduced inflammation (Biro et al., 2003).
- Enhanced immune function (Pilch et al., 2013).
For individuals sensitive to high heat, infrared saunas provide a therapeutic experience without discomfort.
Traditional Saunas
The primary advantage of traditional saunas lies in their high heat, which typically reaches 185°F–194°F . Scientific studies have extensively validated their health benefits, including:
- Cortisol reduction: Repeated sauna bathing at 194°F+ , followed by cold-water immersion (51°F), has been shown to significantly lower cortisol levels (Podstawski et al., 2021).
- Improved cardiovascular health: Regular sauna use correlates with reduced cardiovascular mortality and enhanced vascular function (Laukkanen et al., 2018).
- Boosted physical performance: Sauna use supports testosterone levels and recovery after exercise (Heinonen & Laukkanen, 2017).
The intense heat and steam create a classic sauna experience that many enthusiasts prefer for its invigorating effects.
Location: Indoor vs. Outdoor
Your sauna’s location significantly influences your decision.
Indoor Saunas
Indoor saunas, whether infrared or traditional, are usually more cost-effective and easier to install. They’re ideal for spaces like basements, pool houses, and sheds.
Infrared Consideration: If you’re installing an infrared sauna in an unheated space, consider upgrading to a FD-series model, which handles colder climates with its 170°F maximum temperature setting.
Top Indoor Sauna Picks:
- FD-2 Infrared Sauna
- AH Classic Hybrid Series
- GDI Series
Outdoor Saunas
Outdoor saunas are perfect for creating a luxurious, standalone retreat. They come in various styles, from compact barrel saunas to cabin-style designs with seating areas.
Economical Outdoor Options:
- Cedar Barrel Series
- Thermo-Spruce Barrel Series
- G2
Luxury Outdoor Options:
- G4 Sauna
- Saunum Mini
- G6
WiFi Enabled Heaters
For outdoor saunas, WiFi-enabled heaters like the Saunum Air are a game-changer. These heaters let you remotely preheat your sauna and feature advanced climate control for balanced temperature, moisture, and air quality.
Top WiFi-Enabled Heaters:
- Saunum Air 7
- HUUM Hive
- HUUM Drop
Conclusion
No matter your budget or preferences, there’s a sauna that’s perfect for you. With the right planning and understanding of your options, you’ll be on your way to enjoying the ultimate relaxation and health benefits that a home sauna can provide!
As always, our team is here to help! Contact us to build a tailored list of options that best fit your needs.
