How To Choose The Perfect Electric Sauna Heater
Selecting the right electric sauna heater is one of the most important decisions when planning your sauna. The heater determines how quickly the sauna warms, how evenly heat is distributed, and the type of steam experience you’ll enjoy. The right choice ensures comfort, efficiency, and years of reliable performance.
1. Determine Your Sauna Size
Begin by calculating the cubic volume of your sauna. Measure the interior length × width × height.
Most electric sauna heaters require 1 kW of heater power for every 50 cubic feet of interior space.
- Example: A 6' × 7' × 7' sauna = 294 cu. ft.
If the sauna has large glass surfaces, high ceilings, or is located outdoors, it may require a slightly higher kW rating to maintain consistent heat.
2. Consider the Heat Experience You Prefer
Electric heaters vary in stone capacity, which affects the feel of the heat:
- Small stone capacity heats quickly and provides a dry, sharper heat.
- Large stone capacity takes longer to heat but produces a softer, more luxurious heat and fuller steam when water is added.
For those who enjoy generous steam (“löyly”), choose a heater with a higher stone volume.
3. Choose the Control Style
Electric sauna heaters offer different control types depending on how you prefer to operate your sauna.
- Built-In Controls
Controls are located directly on the heater. Simple and convenient for many indoor saunas. - Wall-Mounted Controls
Installed outside the hot room for clean aesthetics and ease of use. - Wi-Fi / Smart Controls
Allows you to preheat your sauna from your phone. Ideal for daily sauna users or cold climates.
4. Select a Heater Design That Fits Your Interior
Heaters range from compact wall-mounted units to tall, cylindrical heaters that showcase the stones as part of the room design.
Consider your sauna layout and how much bench or floor space you want to keep open.
5. Confirm Electrical Requirements
Electric sauna heaters require proper wiring and a dedicated circuit.
Always have a licensed electrician handle the electrical installation to ensure performance and safety.
6. Choose a Trusted Manufacturer
Quality heaters are designed to last decades with minimal maintenance.
Brands with proven performance and reliable replacement parts provide long-term peace of mind.