Choosing between an infrared and traditional sauna means understanding how each type is installed and maintained. These differences significantly impact your initial investment, ongoing costs, and daily upkeep requirements.
Installation Requirements
Traditional Saunas require substantial installation work. You need dedicated electrical wiring capable of handling 240V power for the heater, which typically draws 6-8 kW. Professional electricians must install a dedicated circuit breaker. The structure demands proper ventilation systems, including intake and exhaust vents to manage the high heat and humidity. You’ll also need heat-resistant materials, waterproof flooring, and specialized insulation. Installation typically takes 2-5 days and costs between $3,000-$6,000 for professional setup.
Infrared Saunas offer simpler installation. Most models plug into standard 120V outlets, eliminating the need for electrical upgrades. These units arrive pre-assembled or require basic assembly with simple tools. You can place an infrared sauna in any room with adequate space—no special ventilation required. Installation takes 1-2 hours for most homeowners, with minimal to no professional help needed.
Power and Operating Costs
Traditional saunas consume significantly more energy. The wood-burning or electric heater must heat the entire room to 150-195°F, using 6-8 kW per hour. Preheat time ranges from 30-45 minutes before each use.
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures (120-150°F) and use only 1.6-3 kW per hour. They’re ready in 10-15 minutes with no preheat required. This translates to 50-60% lower electricity costs over time.
Daily Care and Maintenance
Traditional Sauna Care involves more intensive upkeep. After each use, you must wipe down benches to remove sweat, leave the door open for 20-30 minutes to air dry, and check water levels if using a steam generator. Weekly tasks include washing wooden surfaces with mild cleaners, inspecting and cleaning the heater and rocks, and checking for mold in high-humidity areas. The sauna rocks need replacement every 1-2 years, and wood surfaces may require sanding and re-oiling annually.
Infrared Sauna Care is considerably simpler. Post-session maintenance means wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth—that’s it. Weekly cleaning involves gentle soap and water on benches and walls. The heating panels require no maintenance and last 10-15 years. No rocks to replace, no steam systems to monitor, and minimal risk of mold or moisture damage.
Long-Term Maintenance Costs
Traditional saunas demand regular component replacement. Heater elements last 5-7 years ($300-$800 to replace). Sauna rocks need replacement ($50-$150 annually). Wood treatment products cost $30-$100 yearly. Ventilation system maintenance adds another $100-$200 annually.
Infrared saunas have virtually no recurring component costs. The carbon or ceramic heating panels rarely fail during the unit’s lifetime. You’ll only need occasional cleaning supplies and possibly light bulb replacements.
Space and Structural Considerations
Traditional saunas require dedicated space with proper floor support to handle the weight of the structure, heater, and rocks—typically 1,500-2,500 pounds total. The room needs floor drains for proper water drainage and walls capable of withstanding sustained high heat and humidity.
Infrared saunas are lightweight (300-500 pounds) and portable. You can move them between rooms, take them when relocating, or reposition them as needed. They don’t require floor drains or special structural reinforcement.
Making Your Decision
The key differences in installation and care between infrared and traditional saunas come down to complexity versus simplicity. Traditional saunas deliver an authentic, high-heat experience but demand professional installation, higher energy costs, and regular maintenance. Infrared saunas offer plug-and-play convenience, lower operating expenses, and minimal upkeep.
Consider your available budget for installation, your comfort level with ongoing maintenance tasks, and whether you have space that can accommodate the structural requirements. For most homeowners seeking convenience and lower long-term costs, infrared saunas present fewer barriers. For sauna purists willing to invest in installation and maintenance, traditional saunas provide the classic experience.
Understanding these installation and care differences helps you choose the sauna type that fits your lifestyle, space, and maintenance preferences.