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The choice of an electric sauna heater is no longer solely dependent on its power. Nowadays, the appearance and user-friendliness of the electric sauna stove are also becoming increasingly important factors to consider when making a decision.
Check out my top picks and get to know the hot trio of electric sauna stoves and how to choose the right electric sauna heater for you.
Choosing an Electric Sauna Heater iIs Easy: Choose The Good, Better or Best Option
Here are my top three picks for choosing an electric sauna stove for your sauna.
A Good Option
VEVOR Sauna Heater 2KW-9KW
The Better Option
Finlandia/Harvia FLB-80/KIP-80B Sauna Heater, 8kw 240v/1ph
The Best Option
Harvia Cilindro 9kw HB Sauna Heater w/ Stones
The Good Option: VEVOR Sauna Heater
If you’re looking for an affordable and efficient sauna heater for your home, the VEVOR Sauna Heater
is a good basic option for most home saunas. While it’s pretty cheap and gets the job done, it doesn’t look the best and some people have reported difficulties in installing it, and has low built quality.
It is available in 2KW, 3KW, 6KW, and 9KW sizes, for 150 – 590 cu. Ft saunas. It has very simple and easy-to-use controller for adjusting the temperature and time.
The stainless steel shell is anti-rust and durable, and the stainless steel heating coil heats up quickly and saves energy. With its wall-mount design and easy installation, this sauna heater is a great addition to any sauna room.
The Better Option: Finlandia FLB-80/KIP-80B, 8kw 240v/1ph
Moving onto the better option, which is the Finlandia FLB-80/KIP-80B.
The Finlandia/Harvia FLB-80/KIP-80B Sauna Heater is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable sauna experience. With a power output of 8 kW and the ability to heat up to 425 cubic feet, this sauna heater is suitable for both home and commercial use.
The built-in controls make it easy to operate and adjust the temperature according to your preference, ensuring that you have a comfortable and relaxing sauna experience. The purchase includes 50 pounds of igneous sauna stones, so you won’t have to shop for them separately!
If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient sauna heater, the Finlandia/Harvia FLB-80/KIP-80B Sauna Heater is definitely worth considering. See the price on Amazon!
The Best Option: Harvia Cilindro 9kw HB Sauna Heater w/ Stones
Finally, my best option is the Harvia Cilindro 9kw HB Sauna Heater! With a beautiful stainless steel design and a space-saving shape, this heater is perfect for any sauna space. Plus, it comes with five boxes of sauna stones so you don’t have to buy them separately.
The Finnish sauna product manufacturer Harvia is known for their quality and durability, and it’s probably the favorite brand for most Finnish sauna lovers.
If you’re ready to take your sauna experience to the next level, check out the Harvia Cilindro 9kw HB Sauna Heater with Stones on Amazon today!
Understanding the Different Power Levels of Electric Sauna Heaters
When choosing an electric sauna heater, it’s important to understand the different power levels available and how they relate to the size of your sauna, desired temperature, and heating time.
Power Level and Sauna Size
The power level of an electric sauna heater is measured in kilowatts (kW).
As a general rule, you need approximately 1 kW of power for every 50 cubic feet of sauna space. So, for example, a 6 kW heater would be appropriate for a sauna that is approximately 300 cubic feet in size.
| Sauna Size (Cubic Feet) | Required Heater Power (kW) |
|---|---|
| 101 – 150 | 3 kW |
| 151 – 200 | 4 kW |
| 201 – 250 | 5 kW |
| 251 – 300 | 6 kW |
| 301 – 350 | 7 kW |
| 351 – 400 | 8 kW |
| 401 – 450 | 9 kW |
| 451 – 500 | 10 kW |
Remember, this is a general rule of thumb and other factors may come into play when determining the appropriate power level for your specific sauna. For example, the amount of glass surfaces will affect the the power requirement.
I made a simple calculator for calculating the sauna heater sizing, use it for me detailed results!
Power Level Impacts the Heating Time
The power level of your sauna heater also affects how quickly it can heat up your sauna to your desired temperature.
A higher-powered heater can heat your sauna quicker but may consume more energy in the process. If you prefer a lower-temperature sauna, a lower-powered heater may be sufficient.
Understanding the Electrical Requirements of Electric Sauna Heaters
Before purchasing an electric sauna heater, it’s essential to understand the electrical requirements of the heater and ensure that your home’s electrical system can accommodate it.
Voltage and Amperage
Electric sauna heaters typically require either 120V or 240V power, and the amperage requirements can vary depending on the heater’s power level. 110V heaters are also available, although they are more rare.
Higher-powered heaters will require more amperage to operate. It’s important to note that if you choose a higher-powered heater, you may need to install a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading your home’s electrical system.
Do I need a 3-phase or single-phase power supply for an Electric Sauna Heater?
Most homes in the US have a single-phase power supply. If you are unsure about your home’s power supply, it is best to consult with a qualified electrician.
Electric sauna heaters with a power output of up to 9 kW can function on both single-phase and three-phase power supply systems. For electric sauna heaters with a power output of 10.5 kW, a three-phase power supply is required. Commercial sauna heaters with larger power outputs, such as the Narvi Ultra Big, may require a specialist dedicated power supply.
It’s important to ensure that the power supply system in your home is compatible with the electric sauna heater you choose. It’s recommended to consult with a qualified electrician to ensure that your sauna heater is safely and properly connected to your home’s power supply system.
Wiring Considerations
The wiring requirements for your electric sauna heater will depend on the voltage and amperage requirements. If you’re installing a new heater, you may need to upgrade the wiring in your sauna room to meet the heater’s electrical requirements. It’s essential to use the appropriate wiring size and type to avoid any safety hazards.
Consulting an Electrician
If you’re not familiar with electrical wiring or unsure if your home’s electrical system can accommodate an electric sauna heater, it’s recommended to consult with a licensed electrician. An electrician can help ensure that your wiring is up to code, install any necessary upgrades, and ensure that your sauna heater is safely connected to your home’s electrical system.
Overall, understanding the electrical requirements of your electric sauna heater is crucial to ensure that it operates safely and efficiently. By considering the voltage and amperage requirements, wiring considerations, and consulting an electrician if necessary, you can ensure that your electric sauna heater is properly installed and ready to use.
Types of Electric Sauna Heaters
There are three main types of electric sauna heaters:
- traditional Finnish sauna heaters
- infrared sauna heaters
- combination sauna heaters
Each type of heater has its own unique features and benefits.
Finnish sauna heaters use heated stones to provide a traditional sauna experience. Infrared sauna heaters use infrared technology to provide a more gentle and penetrating heat, while combination sauna heaters provide both traditional and steam generators for steam.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Sauna Heater
When choosing an electric sauna heater, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the right one for your needs.
Budget: Heater Pricing Ranges from $200 to $2000
Electric sauna heaters are available at a range of price points, typically ranging from $200 all the way to $2000. It’s important to establish your budget before making a purchase. It’s essential to strike a balance between your budget and the features and performance of the sauna heater.
Space Constraints
The size of your sauna room will influence the type and size of the electric sauna heater you choose. As a rule of thumb, you need approximately 1 kW of power for every 50 cubic feet of sauna space.
So, for example, a 6 kW heater would be appropriate for a sauna that is approximately 300 cubic feet in size. It’s important to select a heater that is appropriately sized for your sauna room to ensure that it can heat the space efficiently and effectively.
More Rocks Mean More Steam
Generally, the more rocks your sauna heater holds the more steam your sauna will produce. The heat and steam will also be “smooth” compared to fewer rocks.
Read my complete guide about sauna rocks and the best types of rocks to choose.
Frequency of Use
Consider how often you plan to use your sauna when selecting an electric sauna heater.
If you plan to use it frequently, it’s essential to select a heater that can handle regular use and provide reliable performance over time. High-end models typically come with a longer warranty and may be a better option if you plan to use your sauna frequently.
If you’re using the sauna daily or almost daily, then an instant ready sauna heater might be the best option for you.
Personal Preferences
Finally, consider your personal preferences when selecting an electric sauna heater. Do you prefer a traditional Finnish sauna experience or the more gentle heat of an infrared sauna? Do you want a heater with digital controls or a more traditional dial? Considering your personal preferences can help you choose a sauna heater that you will enjoy using for years to come.
