7 Best Sauna Heaters (2024) | #1 Model | Reviews & Full Guide!

If you’re trying to build your own sauna room from scratch, you’re probably looking for the best sauna heaters to use.

If you’re considering building your own sauna you need to ask yourself these questions:

• What kind of sauna do I want?
• Should I consider an electric sauna heater? A woodburning heater? An infrared heater?
• How big should my heater be?

In this article, we’ll take a look at a variety of sauna electric heaters for your sauna and answer the above-mentioned questions.

Review Summary:

• 1. Finlandia Harvia – #1 Best Choice
• 2. Harvia M3 Woodburning Sauna Heater
• 3. Baltic Leisure Harvia KIP 8KW
• 4. TURKU
• 5. VEVOR Sauna Heater
• 6. TYLO Sense Sport 8
• 7. Finlandia FLB-30-S

Finlandia is the best Harvia Sauna heater, in my opinion. You’ll get the most value out of your money, and it comes with sauna stones, so it’s very convenient.

It can accommodate up to 425 cubic feet, heats up relatively quickly, and is very user-friendly.

Take a closer look at it and my other picks below.

Sauna Heater Reviews (High-Quality Models for 2024)

If you’re unsure about what type of sauna heater to get, don’t worry! I’ve listed seven of the best heaters on the market. You’ll find the best electric heater here as well as woodburning and other options.

1. Finlandia Harvia FLB-80/KIP-80B – Best Sauna Heater (8kw)

 

 

This electric sauna heater is manufactured by Harvia in Finland. It comes with sauna stones, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing them separately.

I also appreciate that it is ETL certified in the US, unlike many Amazon-listed sauna heaters.

Here are its best features:

Stainless Construction – this Finlandia Harvia electric heater utilizes top-grade stainless steel. Stainless steel is an important component if you want a long-lasting sauna heater.

This also means you’ll be able to easily control your humidity and steam levels by sprinkling some water on your sauna stove stones.

Timer and Countdown – you don’t have to worry about watching the time as you enjoy your sauna session. Finlandia Harvia sauna heaters features a one-hour timer and handy countdown feature that does it for you.

Summary: This unit comes with its controls on the base. That’s basically the worst thing about it. That’s why it’s the best and most price-worthy unit on my list. This Finlandia Harvia sauna heater is a basic model that delivers its job excellently.

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2. Harvia M3 Woodburning Sauna Heater

This woodburning sauna heater is a great choice if you want to avoid spending extra on your electricity bills. It also adds a great touch of sophisticated elegance to your sauna room.

You’ll love the classic fireplace feel of this woodburning heater and a beautiful black graphic finish.

Take a look at some of its best features:

Glass Peep Door – this heaters feels like a miniature fireplace. You’ll enjoy watching the wood crackle and burn through the glass window. The fire also adds an additional warmth that can’t be replicated mechanically.

Fast Heating – burning wood is an efficient and quick way to heat up your sauna rocks. You should do this cautiously, though, because it can heat up too fast. You’ll need to drizzle some water on your rocks every little while to prevent it from burning you.

Summary: If you want a traditional feel to your sauna, invest in this wood burning sauna heaters. The only cons are that you’ll have to sprinkle water on the rocks every few minutes to keep it from being too hot and that you can’t control the exact temperature for long periods. It’s beautifully designed though.

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3. Baltic Leisure Harvia KIP 8KW – Optimized Electric Sauna Heater

This Baltic Leisure electric stove comes with sauna stones for convenience. You’ll love sleek and clean white-finished stainless steel body that adds a nice contrast to your sauna stones.

Here are some of the features I loved:

Larger Stone Space – this sauna heater has a larger stone space compared to other units. This means your heater has a better chance of evenly spreading out heat without heating up the unit itself.

Heats Large Areas – the Baltic Leisure Harvia can heat up to 424 cubic feet of sauna space. It can also be used for saunas as small as 247 cubic feet. So whether you’re aiming for a smaller or relatively large medium-sized sauna, these sauna heaters can handle it.

Summary: If you’re looking for a reasonably versatile sauna heater, the KIP 8KW can handle it. It runs on 33.3 amps so it heats up quickly. Choose this unit if you want a stylish and efficient unit that distributes heat evenly.

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4. TURKU TU90WD-OD 9kW – Traditional Home Sauna Unit

The Turku is pricier compared to other models, but it does have one key feature that you’ll like. It comes with an external remote!

Take a closer look at its features:

External Controls – unlike other sauna heaters that only allow you to control its settings through the built-in panels, the TU90WD-OD comes with an external remote. This will allow you to place the unit slightly farther from you without you having to stand up to change the settings.

Overheat Protection – if you’re worried about electronic sauna heaters overheating, this Turku model has it figured out. A built-in thermo sensor will keep your temperature in check and prevent your sauna from getting too hot.

Summary: This electric sauna heater makes it easy for you to control your heating unit anywhere in your sauna space thanks to its external remote. Additionally, if you don’t mind spending around $500 (shipping included), this unit does make your sauna room feel more authentic and convenient.

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5. VEVOR Sauna Heater 9KW – Best Budget Model

It is never a bad thing to stay within your budget. That’s why this Vevor Sauna Heater is the best choice if you don’t want to break the bank.

For a unit under $300, it’s packed with the following features:

Durable Stainless Steel Casing – this budget-friendly purchase boasts 430-grade steel. It’s very durable, rust and corrosion resistant and efficient. You don’t have to worry about your heater heating too slowly or eating up too much energy because it is very efficient for the most part.

Wall Mounting – this unit is designed to be mounted on your wall to save floor space. It’s also ideal for dissipating heat. If you’re worried about assembly and installation, it’s really quite easy.

Versatile – this unit can be used for your home or your business. VEVOR provides good value sauna heaters of any purpose.

Summary: This budget-friendly sauna heater boasts many benefits and features for an affordable unit. It’s a good enough deal if you’re looking for a more affordable option and it performs extremely well. However, you should hope you don’t encounter any issues with this unit because the customer service is virtually non-existent.

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6. TYLO Sense Sport 8 Sauna Heater – Best Premium Class Model

If money is no object and you’re simply looking for the best model money can buy, the Tylo Sense is the best option in the market.

This premium sauna heater boasts a beautiful design and stylish flair that looks good in any streamlined sauna.

Here are its best features:

Thermosafe Casing – you don’t need to worry about accidentally burning your fingers while trying to reach your unit’s controls. The thermosafe casing on this heater keeps the outer shell only warm, so you’re safe from unwanted pain.

Vented Design – coupled with its stainless interior, your heating unit will heat up faster and more evenly. This means you don’t have to worry about hot or cold spots in your sauna. You only need to turn it on, adjust your temperature and timer, and let it work its magic.

Summary: Choose this unit if you don’t mind splurging a little (also if your sauna room is no bigger than 420 cubic feet). You’ll love the aromatherapy feature on it that adds a significant elegant ambience to your any sauna room. Trust me, the premium features are well worth it.

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7. Finlandia FLB-30-S Sauna Heater, 3kw

This Finlandia heater is perfect for smaller sauna rooms. It can only heat up to 130 cubic feet of sauna space. It conveniently comes with sauna stones, so all that is left to do is to install it, and you’re good to go.

Take a look at the features I liked:

Wet/Dry Use – this heater is built with stainless steel components both inside and outside, so it’s built to handle getting up to ¼ cup of water getting poured over the stones. This will help you keep the temperature as well as your steam and humidity in check for the best sauna experience.

Compact and Space-Saving – this space-saving heater can heat up to 130 cubic feet of space. Because of that, it’s wall-mounted unless otherwise specified. This saves you floor space and allows heat to dissipate more effectively. This also means you’ll be able to control it more easily because its controls are located at the bottom part of the heating unit.

Summary: This heater is perfect if you’re looking for a reliable sauna heater with no fuss. It comes with sauna stones so you can use it immediately once it arrives. However, you can only use it for spaces as big as 130 cubic feet. Otherwise, it’s not going to be very effective.

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Questions & Answers:

Is it Safe to Put Water on Electric Sauna?

Yes. If you’re worried about getting electrocuted by adding water to your sauna heater, take note of these few things:

• Electric sauna heaters cannot handle water being poured on them. That said, your electric heater can handle a drizzling of water on them. This will boost your sauna experience by adding steam to your sauna and raising the humidity of your home sauna.
• Pouring water on any electric device will cause it to short-circuit and poses a fire hazard.
• A few splashes of water on your electric stove is enough. This also prevents your room and heater from getting overwhelmed.

How Do You Size a Heater?

The general formula is 50 cubic feet = 1 Kilowatt. Say for 300 cubic feet sauna rooms; you’ll need sauna heaters that are 6 Kilowatt.

 

However, you need to consider that outdoor saunas built for outdoors will need an oversized heater.

What is the Difference Between An Electric and An Infrared Sauna Heater?

The biggest difference noticeable to those who have tried both kinds of saunas is the heat. If you’re sensitive to environmental heat, you may not enjoy your time in a traditional sauna.

That’s because traditional saunas usually maintain a high temperature of up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit.

Adversely, if you install an infrared sauna heater, you don’t need to raise the room temperature to notice its effects.

What Size Heater Do I Need for a Sauna?

Determining the appropriate size of a heater for a sauna requires careful consideration of several factors. The size of the heater depends on the volume and insulation of the sauna room, as well as the desired temperature and heat-up time.

The first step is to calculate the cubic footage of the sauna room by multiplying its length, width, and height. This measurement gives an estimate of the volume that needs to be heated. Generally, a sauna heater should provide around 1 kW of power for every 50 cubic feet of sauna space.

Insulation plays a crucial role in heat retention, so it’s important to assess the sauna’s insulation quality. Well-insulated saunas retain heat more effectively, allowing for smaller heaters. On the other hand, poorly insulated saunas may require larger heaters to compensate for heat loss.

The desired temperature is another key factor. Higher temperatures necessitate more power to achieve and maintain the desired heat level. For example, traditional Finnish saunas typically operate between 80°C (176°F) and 100°C (212°F), while lower-temperature saunas, such as infrared saunas, may require less power.

Heat-up time is also a consideration. If you prefer a sauna that heats up quickly, a more powerful heater might be necessary. However, if you’re willing to wait a bit longer for the sauna to reach the desired temperature, a smaller heater may suffice.

It’s worth noting that heater manufacturers often provide guidelines and recommendations based on sauna size and other parameters. Consulting these guidelines can be helpful in selecting the appropriate heater size.

Ultimately, the size of the heater for a sauna depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the sauna owner. By considering the sauna’s volume, insulation, desired temperature, and heat-up time, one can make an informed decision to ensure optimal heating and a comfortable sauna experience.

Things to Remember Before Shopping

There are many factors you need to think of before purchasing heating elements for your sauna.

For starters, what kind of sauna do you want?

There are a variety of sauna types:

• Wood burning sauna
• Dry sauna
• Finnish traditional saunas
• Gas Sauna
• Infrared saunas

Once you’ve determined which sauna type you’re looking for, you can start deciding which model is the best for you.

• If you’re choosing an electric sauna heater, make sure it’s easy to use and made of stainless steel to achieve the best electric sauna.
• For wet dry saunas, an electric stove that heats sauna stones is ideal.
• A gas sauna is understandably more so meant for dry heating.

Are Harvia Sauna Heaters Good?

Alright, so yes, as with any product, it is not really fair to talk about the technical aspects without letting people try it out first and having a proper verdict about it. That being said, when it comes to harvia or balneumati or whatever other word for heat from natural springs, one thing is certain: it can easily rise to the level of “something that should be in everyone’s home!” The latest two of such reviews are about the new water heater from the famous French manufacturer “Vallair”: the garden2home harvia water heater. Each product from Vallair is a high-end affair, and their harvia water heater offers a wide array of functions and traits. This new machine takes things one step further and offers options and great features for both outdoor and indoor use.

How Hot Can an Electric Sauna Heater Get?

Considering that the average fridge here in the United States can cool off your milk to near freezing—and the average refrigerators—anything that’s near its boiling point must be hot. The average electric sauna works at a temperature of 240 °C/482 °F (the boiling point of water is 212 °C/469 °F). The only caveat is that as a heat source, sintering will work only if you start out near its highest point. These temperature figures seem to be based on the most basic purpose of a sauna—during the joints and other connective tissue of the body. If that’s your main goal, by all means, get yourself one of these to work on the joint issues.

But, if your main reason for using a sauna is to stay warm, then don’t be surprised if the temperature seems higher than you expected. Safety: Is Sintering Safe? We already touched on the heating element itself, which is one of the basic safety concerns in regards to any sauna. If the device isn’t completely water-tight and sealed, the heating element can quickly dry out. Many cheap electric sauna models don’t have watertight sealing, so if you accidentally step in the shower of the sauna with your foot.

Finlandia Flb-80 Sauna Heater

Finlandia Corporation introduced the very first “housewife-friendly” electric spa in the U.S. when it debuted its concept for a bathing suit-clad woman in the 1972 furniture catalog. The Finnish company’s ornately detailed “Solisto” sauna console lights up the fireplace room, where you can dine, read a book or take a nap in a post-shower “midday.”

By the 1980s, Finlandia’s basic model (above, from the 1970s) with a wooden base was about half the price of a modern Jacuzzi and a fraction of the price of a jacuzzi heat pump. The low-tech electric version (below) was less than half the price of a modern outdoor A.V. unit but, like most of these simple heaters, made do with only a single thermostat and a somewhat short wick.

HUUM DROP Sauna Heater

The HUUM DROP is an incredible piece of technology specifically engineered for heating saunas. It incorporates state-of-the-art features and a thoughtful design to enhance the sauna experience.

At its core, the HUUM DROP utilizes a highly efficient and powerful heating element that combines electrical resistance and convection to produce heat. This unique construction ensures even heat distribution, maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the sauna space.

With intelligent controls, the HUUM DROP allows precise temperature adjustments and programmable settings, empowering users to tailor their sauna session to their preferences. The interface is user-friendly, making it effortless to operate and monitor the heater’s performance.

Safety is paramount, and the HUUM DROP Sauna Heater is equipped with multiple protective features. These include overheating protection and an automatic shutdown mechanism, providing users with peace of mind during their sauna experience.

Not only does the HUUM DROP excel in functionality, but it also boasts an elegant and contemporary design. Crafted from high-quality materials, it adds a touch of style to any sauna room, enhancing the overall ambiance.

Moreover, the HUUM DROP prioritizes energy efficiency, optimizing heat output while minimizing energy consumption. This not only leads to cost savings but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable environment.

In summary, the HUUM DROP is an exceptional heating solution that combines advanced technology, user-friendly features, safety measures, and energy efficiency. Whether in private homes or commercial spa facilities, it delivers a superior sauna experience that promotes relaxation, well-being, and rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Sauna Heaters Use a Lot of Electricity?

Sauna heaters, while integral to creating the desired sauna experience, are not typically characterized by excessive electricity consumption. The power usage of a sauna heater depends on several factors, including its size, type, and duration of operation.

Infrared sauna heaters, known for their energy efficiency, generally consume less electricity compared to traditional electric or wood-burning heaters. Infrared heaters directly heat the occupants and surfaces inside the sauna, minimizing energy wastage. The power rating of sauna heaters varies, with smaller units typically ranging from 1.5 to 3 kilowatts (kW), while larger heaters may go up to 9 kW or more. The choice of heater size depends on the sauna’s dimensions and intended temperature range.

The actual electricity usage also hinges on how often and how long the sauna is in operation. Standard estimates suggest that an hour-long session in a mid-sized sauna with a 6 kW heater might consume around 6-9 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. However, this is a generalization, and actual consumption can vary based on specific sauna characteristics and usage patterns.

In essence, while sauna heaters do consume electricity, their energy usage is not exorbitant. Energy-efficient designs, such as those found in infrared saunas, contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective operation, making sauna ownership an accessible and relatively economical indulgence.

How Do I Choose a Sauna Heater?

Selecting the appropriate sauna heater is crucial for optimizing your sauna experience, tailored to your specific preferences and sauna type. Various factors should guide your decision-making process, including sauna type, heating method, power source, desired features, and room size considerations.

Firstly, assess the type of sauna you have or intend to install, whether it’s a traditional (dry) sauna, steam sauna, or infrared sauna. Each type requires a heater tailored to produce the appropriate heat and humidity levels.

For traditional saunas, which rely on dry heat, options include electric heaters, wood-burning stoves, or gas heaters. Electric heaters are commonly preferred for their precise temperature control and easy installation. Wood-burning stoves offer a traditional sauna ambiance but necessitate regular maintenance. Gas heaters provide rapid heating but require access to a gas line.

Steam saunas require steam generators to produce steam by heating water. The size and capacity of the generator should match the sauna’s dimensions and desired steam output.

Infrared saunas utilize infrared heaters that emit radiant heat, penetrating the skin more deeply than traditional saunas. These heaters are typically electric and come in various forms, such as ceramic, carbon, or near-infrared heaters.

Consider the power source available for your sauna heater. Electric heaters are versatile, but ensure your electrical system can support the heater’s power requirements. Gas heaters need access to a gas line, while wood-burning stoves require a wood supply and proper ventilation.

Additionally, factor in room size considerations. As a general guideline, a sauna heater typically requires 1 kW to heat 50 cubic feet of room space. For instance, a 6’x7’x7′ sauna room would ideally need a 5 kW heater (252 cubic feet divided by 50 equals 5.04). Outdoor saunas or those built on outside walls may require an oversized heater to compensate for heat loss.

By carefully considering these factors and room size guidelines, you can select a sauna heater that enhances your sauna experience with efficient and reliable performance.

Final Thoughts

The Finlandia Harvia FLB-80/KIP-80B is my top choice. Why?

• It’s practical – it’s a no-fuss purchase. There are no extra attachments included, and there’s nothing more you need to do except install it, fill it up with stones, and start using it.
• Durable – it’s made of stainless steel both inside and out, so you know it won’t rust or corrode. This means you’re investing in something that’ll last you a long time.
• Quick-heating – it heats up quickly because of its stainless steel construction. It’s also wall-mounted, so it dissipates heat evenly and more effectively. Additionally, it also frees up floor space, so if you’re trying to keep as much floor room as possible, it’s perfect.

There are more reasons that led me to choose FLB-80.

However, I understand some of you might be looking for something with a bit more “flair.” In that case, the Tylo Sense Sport is the perfect heater for you.

This premium luxury model comes with a host of great features you won’t find on the Harvia.

But it’s also very expensive. So if you’re fine with spending nearly $500 on a sauna heater, you’ll love the following features:

• Aromatherapy – you’ll enjoy the bonus ambiance by putting herbs or essential oils on the designated aromatherapy well. It’s also there to keep water for humidity so you can ladle water on it more easily.
• Fastest Heating – this luxury heater boasts the quickest heating time in the market. You’ll enjoy lounging in your sauna in no time because of this. Additionally, it also effectively spreads heat throughout your sauna more evenly.
• Thermosafe Casing – its unique thermosafe shell makes sure you don’t get accidentally burned while trying to access your sauna heater. At its hottest, the most you’ll feel is a steady warmth.

But if you’re looking for something that’s more budget-friendly without skimping on the features, the Vevor Sauna Heater is the best option.

This handy and compact sauna heater is packed with great features. It’s also relatively inexpensive, so it’s a great first sauna heater for your home or business.

• It’s versatile. That means you can use it as a wet or dry sauna heater.
• It’s durable. Thanks to its premium stainless steel construction, this sauna heater won’t corrode or rust in time. It’ll simply heat up your space reliably and quickly.
• It has safeties against overheating. This feature is great to have, especially if you tend to forget to monitor your heating unit. Once it goes over a certain temperature, the unit will automatically shut off and cool down on its own.

So you see, whichever unit you choose, you’re bound to fall in love with it.

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There are plenty of options listed above, and I’m sure you’ll find one that fits your needs specifically. And if you don’t? Well, at least you now know what to look for in your sauna heater.

Make sure you remember to:

• Consider your space. The formula is: 50 cubic feet = 1 Kilowatt
• Think of your budget. It’s never a bad thing to stick to it.
• Think of the features you want. Do you really need the external remote? Or does it have to be electric?