Sauna in your home? It's possible! Give yourself unlimited access to luxurious relaxation, which brings not only relief to the body, but also to the mind. It is worth learning more about home saunas to understand what benefits they bring and how to choose the right one for you. In this article, we will discuss all the important factors to consider when choosing a home sauna.
Using a sauna can have many health benefits
Photo: HUUM © UNSPLASH
PdD Guide
What is a sauna?
A sauna is a type of room designed for steam baths. They are popular in many countries and cultures around the world providing a form of relaxation and improved health. In Finland, for example, saunas are part of the national culture, and families there often have their own saunas in homes. In other countries, saunas are a popular place to socialize and relax.
There are different types of saunas, but the most popular ones are Finnish and steam saunas.
Finnish sauna
This is a traditional type of sauna that originated in Finland. In a Finnish sauna, the temperature is kept relatively high, usually between 70°C and 100°C. The heat is generated using a stove that heats the stones. The person using the sauna generally sits or lies on a bench, and pours water over the hot stones to generate steam.
Steam sauna
A steam sauna, also known as a steam bath, is characterized by a lower temperature compared to a Finnish sauna. In a steam sauna, the temperature is usually between 40°C and 60°C, and the humidity is much higher. Steam is created using a steam generator or special moisture sources.
Home saunas are usually made of cedar wood or other materials that are resistant to moisture and high temperatures
Photo: HUUM © UNSPLASH
Health benefits of using a sauna
Using a sauna can have many health benefits. It has a positive effect on blood circulation, helps relax muscles, cleanses the skin of toxins, and can provide relief from certain ailments such as muscle or joint pain. Regular use of the sauna can be beneficial for heart and respiratory health.
However, it is important to use the sauna in moderation, avoid spending too much time in high temperatures and stay hydrated. People with certain medical conditions or health problems, such as heart disease or pregnancy, should consult a doctor before using a sauna.
Where to buy a home sauna?
Buying a sauna from a reliable manufacturer is key to ensuring quality materials and workmanship, which translates into durability and safety. Good-quality wood and insulating materials are key to ensuring long-lasting use of the sauna without problems with leaking or falling apart. One such company is Saunalux. Another manufacturer worth noting is Sauna Spa Concept. You can find a full list of recommended manufacturers in the search engine of the Products for Home portal under the keyword „sauna”.
The most popular types of saunas are Finnish and steam saunas
Photo: HUUM © UNSPLASH
What do you need to create a sauna at home?
Space
To begin with, you need to choose a suitable place for the sauna. It can be a separate room, a bathroom or even part of a larger space if you are using a mini sauna.
Heating system
Choose the right heating system that fits your needs. It can be a sauna stove, infrared heater or another type of heater. Make sure you have access to a power source that will be suitable for the heating system you choose.
Finishing materials
Depending on the type of sauna and your preferences, you'll need the right finishing materials, such as cedar wood, pine wood or others that are resistant to moisture and heat.
Proper insulation
To maintain the temperature inside the sauna and prevent heat from escaping, it is important that the room is properly insulated. This will help save energy.
Benches
In a sauna, you need benches on which you can sit or lie down. Choose materials that are comfortable and heat-resistant.
Ventilation
A sauna needs proper ventilation to get rid of moisture and provide fresh air.
Lighting
Be sure to have lamps that provide adequate visibility and comfortable use of the sauna. Choose lighting that is adapted to the specific conditions of the room.
Moisture control
In a steam sauna it is important to control the humidity. You can do this with special devices or humidifiers.
Shower
For convenience, it's a good idea to place a shower near the sauna so you can wash up before and after using it.
Accessories
You may also want to consider additional accessories such as buckets, ladles, timers, thermometers, towels and other sauna equipment.
To maintain the temperature inside the sauna and prevent heat escape, it is important that the room is properly insulated
Photo by Birk Enwald © UNSPLASH
Single-person sauna
Single-person home saunas are ideal for people who value privacy and want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna in their home. Such saunas are small, usually made of cedar wood or other materials that are resistant to moisture and heat. Its door is usually equipped with a window or glass to allow observation of the sauna's interior. A sauna for one person is usually equipped with electric sauna stoves or infrared heaters. You can adjust the temperature and duration of the session according to your preferences. The cost of buying and installing such a sauna can vary depending on the brand, model and equipment. You should also take into account the costs associated with operation, such as electricity consumption. Importantly, to create a sauna in your home or apartment you do not need special permits.
How much electricity does a home sauna use?
A standard electric sauna heater consumes about 3.6-4.2 kWh. Included in this consumption is the time it takes to heat up (about 20 minutes) and use the sauna (about 15 minutes).
You don't need a special permit to create a home sauna
Photo by Lukas Kubica © UNSPLASH
How much does it cost to make a sauna at home?
The cost depends on the type of sauna you choose. Traditional Finnish saunas, steam saunas and infrared saunas have different prices. The latter can be cheaper than traditional ones. Size is also important. A larger sauna will be more expensive. The cost of a sauna also depends on the materials used in its construction. Cedar wood saunas are popular and luxurious, but also expensive. You can choose cheaper options such as pine wood or synthetic finishes. The cost of a sauna stove or heating system, on the other hand, will depend on its power and efficiency. The cost of finishing work, such as lighting, ventilation, doors and windows, and installation will also affect the total cost.
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We encourage you to use the database of reputable and reliable Sauna Manufacturers we are building in the Products for Home portal, as well as the articles we publish about saunas.
