Discovering the best sauna manufacturers for the ultimate experience

How to shop for a quality sauna

With many premium sauna manufacturers to choose from, narrowing down your decision can become overwhelming. When making your decision, look for key features that will lend themselves to ensuring you choose a high-quality sauna that will bring you comfort and pleasure for many years:

Construction and materials

The materials used in the construction of your sauna will directly affect its performance, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. It's important to choose a sauna made from high-quality, durable materials.

Wood types

Wood is a key material for both traditional and infrared saunas. Different types of wood offer varying benefits when it comes to heat retention, scent, and appearance. Some popular choices are mahogany, cedar, hemlock, aspen, pine, and others. Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas, for example, feature certified mahogany.

Heat resistance and insulation

Look for saunas that use high-quality insulation and construction materials that help maintain the sauna’s temperature. Proper insulation ensures that the sauna remains energy-efficient by preventing heat loss, which is important for both traditional and infrared saunas. For traditional saunas, thick wood paneling and high-quality insulation are essential for retaining heat. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, rely more on the effectiveness of the heaters and the thermal conductivity of the walls.

Finish and aesthetics

The finish of the wood is important not only for aesthetic purposes but also for durability. Look for saunas that use natural finishes, which won’t emit harmful chemicals or off-gassing. Oiled finishes can help preserve the wood and enhance its natural grain, while varnished or lacquered finishes may provide extra protection.

Size and capacity

When choosing a sauna, consider the size and capacity to ensure it fits your space and meets your needs. Saunas come in a wide range of sizes, from single-person units to large family or commercial models.

Number of users

Another important factor to consider is how many people will be using your sauna. Following is a quick guide to help you determine the size you may need:

• Solo or couples: A 1-2 person sauna is ideal for individuals or couples who want a private, intimate sauna experience.
• Small family: A 3-4 person sauna is more suitable for families or small groups. It allows for comfort while still fitting into many home spaces.
• Larger groups: If you have a larger family or plan to use the sauna for group sessions, consider a sauna that can accommodate six or more people.

Space availability

You’ll need to measure your available space to ensure the sauna fits comfortably. Saunas come in both indoor and outdoor models, and some are designed to be more compact to fit in smaller bathrooms or dedicated wellness rooms. Outdoor saunas can also be an excellent choice if you have a backyard, offering a more natural, private environment.

Heating system and technology

The heating system is one of the most important aspects of a sauna, as it determines how efficiently the sauna operates and how quickly it reaches the desired temperature.

Traditional sauna heaters

Among traditional saunas, the most common heating options include:

• Electric heaters: These are the most common for home saunas. They are easy to control and maintain and typically come with digital thermostats and timers.
• Wood-burning stoves: This is the most authentic method of heating a traditional sauna. Wood-burning stoves provide a unique ambiance, but they require more space and constant fuel supply.

Infrared sauna heaters

Infrared saunas typically use either carbon or ceramic heaters.

• Carbon heaters: These tend to cover a larger surface area and distribute heat more evenly. They are also more energy-efficient, but they can take longer to reach higher temperatures.
• Ceramic heaters: Ceramic heaters tend to heat up faster and provide a more intense heat, but they may not cover as much surface area as carbon heaters.

Smart features and controls

Modern saunas come equipped with digital control panels or even smartphone apps that allow you to control the temperature, humidity, and even lighting. These features can enhance convenience, especially for infrared saunas, which often require more precise temperature control.

Price and warranty

Quality saunas can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the type, size, and features. While it can be tempting to go for the least expensive option, investing in a higher-quality sauna will pay off in the long run due to better durability and performance. Look for a sauna that comes with a solid warranty, as this is an indication of the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity. Many saunas come with a one to five year warranty, while infrared sauna heaters may have a separate warranty for the heating elements.

Benefits of choosing a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna

Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas are built with quality, efficiency, aesthetics, and your ultimate experience in mind. When you choose a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna, available in 1-person, 2-person, and 3-person models, you can rest assured that you have chosen a premium sauna that will bring you years of comfort. Some of the key features of a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna include:

1. High-intensity red light therapy for enhanced wellness.
2. Therapeutic far infrared heaters that surround you in comfortable heat.
3. Full-spectrum heaters that deliver near, mid, and far infrared.
4. Built-in ergonomic backrest that allows you to relax close to the soothing infrared heat.
5. Vibrational Resonance Therapy that complements your session with sound and vibration.
6. Enhanced audio with Bluetooth® and AUX so you can connect to your favorite smart device.
7. Color light, or chromotherapy, with 12 different lighting options to enhance your mood.
8. Beautiful accent lights.
9. Interior reading lights.
10. Digital keypad controls.

Purchasing a sauna is an exciting investment in your health and well-being. By considering factors such as sauna type, materials, size, heating systems, safety certifications, and warranties, you can find a high-quality sauna that meets your needs. Whether you prefer the high heat and steam of a traditional sauna or the gentler warmth of an infrared model, the key is to choose a sauna that offers durability, comfort, and efficiency.

Take your time to research different brands and models, and don’t hesitate to reach out to sauna professionals or retailers for additional advice. A high-quality sauna can provide years of relaxation, health benefits, and rejuvenation, so it’s worth ensuring you make the right choice.

When you’ve chosen to purchase a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna, visit an authorized Jacuzzi® dealer in your area that sells saunas. A knowledgeable sauna dealer can help answer any final questions you may have and help you chose the best model for your needs.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.