Best Electric Sauna Heater: Expert Picks
Contents Show
Feeling the chill of an underperforming sauna can be more than just uncomfortable—it can be downright disappointing.
We understand the longing for that perfect sauna experience, the kind that warms you to the core and leaves you feeling refreshed and alive.
If the fear of missing out on the ultimate sauna session is nagging at you, our blog post is here to turn that FOMO into JOMO—the joy of missing out on nothing at all.
Learn all about the best electric sauna heater that promises to deliver the heat you desire
Unstoppabl’s Top Picks
Harvia Virta: For those who value sleek design and efficient heating, Harvia Virta's durability and ease of use make it a top-notch choice despite its premium cost
HUUM Steel: HUUM Steel's modern design and Wi-Fi capabilities offer a luxurious, smooth sauna experience, worth the extra buck and the call to a pro for installation
HUUM Cliff: Compact and energy-efficient, HUUM Cliff is ideal for small spaces, offering quick heat-up times and an award-winning design, with the only trade-off being lower heat retention
Top Electric Sauna Heater Models
Let's explore some of the top electric sauna heater models available today:
Harvia Virta Electric Sauna Heater
- This heater is designed for sauna rooms up to 425 cubic feet, promising an immersive sauna session
- With 8kw performance and a manageable weight, it seamlessly integrates into your sauna space
- Sleek and compact design, enhancing functionality and visual appeal
Power Output: 8 kW
Unique Features: Harvia Virta heaters are known for their sleek design and efficient heating capabilities
Pros: They are durable, easy to use, and come with a variety of control options
Cons: The initial cost may be higher than other models
HUUM Steel Electric Sauna Heater
- 6 kW sauna heater 240V/1PH
- UKU WIFI black sauna control
- 330 lbs of 1" - 2" (3-5 cm) of rounded olivine sauna stones
- 5-year limited warranty (excluding elements)
Power Output: 6 kW
Unique Features: This heater boasts a modern design with a large stone capacity for a smooth sauna experience
Pros: It's Wi-Fi compatible for remote control and has a robust construction
Cons: The price point is on the higher end, and it may require professional installation
HUUM Cliff Electric Sauna Heater
- HUUM Cliff 10.5kW sauna heater 240V/1PH
- UKU black sauna control
- Extension Box
- 165 lbs of 1" to 2" (3-5 cm) round olivine sauna stones
- 5-year limited warranty (excluding elements)
Power Output: 10.5 kW
Unique Features: The Cliff model is compact and ideal for smaller saunas, with an award-winning design
Pros: It heats up quickly and is energy-efficient.
Cons: Stone capacity is smaller compared to other models, which may affect the heat retention
HUUM DROP 9 Electric Sauna Heater
- 240V/1PH Operation
- For sauna rooms from 290 to 530 cu. ft.
- UKU WIFI Control
- Limited 5-year warranty
- Designed and precision-crafted in Estonia
Power Output: 9 kW
Unique Features: The DROP heater is a wall-mounted unit with a unique drop shape and a considerable stone capacity
Pros: It offers a long-lasting steam and is Wi-Fi enabled for easy control
Cons: The design may not be suitable for all sauna layouts, and it's one of the pricier options
Harvia Cilindro Electric Sauna Heater
- Modern floor-standing, stainless steel, pillar-style electric sauna heater
- For sauna rooms from 141 to 636 cu. ft.
- Direct rock-to-heating element contact
- Industrial-grade, serviceable heating elements
- Unit Dimensions: 16" W (406mm) x 15" D (381mm) x 45" H (1143mm)
- 240V, Single Phase Amperage - 43.75 Amp
- Kilowatt Rating (KW) 10.5kW
Power Output: 10.5 kW
Unique Features: The Cilindro's pillar design allows for a customizable steam experience
Pros: It has a large stone capacity and is crafted from durable stainless steel
Cons: The unit is quite large and may not fit in smaller sauna spaces
HUUM Hive Mini Electric Sauna Heater
- HUUM Hive Mini 6.0 kW Sauna Heater 240V/1PH
- UKU Black sauna control
- 330 lbs of 2" - 4" (5-10 cm) round olivine sauna stones
- 5-year limited warranty (excluding elements)
Power Output: 6 kW
Unique Features: The Hive Mini is a compact version of the popular Hive heater, perfect for small saunas
Pros: It includes Wi-Fi controls and a generous stone capacity
Cons: As a smaller unit, it may not be suitable for larger sauna rooms
Finlandia FIN-80 Sauna Heater
- 8kw, 240v/1ph, 33.3 amps, 8 gauge wire
- Maximum 425 cubic feet
- Stainless interior & elements
- F-2T mechanical control with 1-hour timer & thermostat
- 16"W x 11"D x 24"H
Power Output: 8 kW
Unique Features: This heater is known for its traditional design and reliable performance
Pros: It's made in Finland and offers a solid construction
Cons: It lacks some of the advanced features found in other models
Finlandia FIN-60-S Sauna Heater
- 6kw, 240v/1ph, 25 amps, 10 gauge wire
- Maximum 300 cubic feet
- Stainless interior/exterior & elements
- F-1T mechanical control with 1 hour timer & thermostat
- 16"W x 11"D x 24"H
Power Output: 6 kW
Unique Features: The FIN-60-S is a smaller version of the FIN-80, with a similar build quality and performance
Pros: It's an affordable option with a compact design
Cons: The heating capacity may not be enough for medium to large saunas
Finlandia Fin-60 Sauna Heater
- 6kw, 240v/1ph, 25 amps, 10 gauge wire
- Maximum 300 cubic feet
- Stainless interior & elements
- F-1T mechanical control with 1-hour timer & thermostat
- 16" W x 11" D x 24" H
Power Output: 1.3 kW
Unique Features: This model is a budget-friendly option for those with small sauna spaces
Pros: It's easy to install and operate
Cons: The lower power output means longer heat-up times
Harvia KIP 6kW Electric Sauna Heater
- Beautiful stainless steel electric sauna heater, 25 AMPS
- Perfect for residential use
- Heats are between 177-283 cu. Ft
- Has built-in controls
- Includes sauna stones
Power Output: 6 kW
Unique Features: The KIP model is a classic heater with built-in controls for ease of use
Pros: It's a reliable unit with a sleek design
Cons: It may not offer the same level of features as more advanced models
Smartmak Portable Sauna Steamer
- 4L larger capability steam pot with power 1500W
- 16-gear adjustment, faster preheating
- You can turn it on/off by the smart remote control or through the buttons on the body
- Explosion-proof, anti-dry and anti-leakage
- Can be used with aromatherapy oils or herbs
Power Output: Not specified
Unique Features: This portable steamer is great for those who want a mobile sauna experience
Pros: It's affordable and easy to set up
Cons: The steam may not be as intense as traditional electric sauna heaters
Harvia Vega Compact Electric Heater
Power Output: 3.5 kW
Unique Features: The Vega Compact is designed for small spaces and offers a quick heat-up time
Pros: It's easy to install and has a modern look
Cons: The stone capacity is limited, which may affect steam quality
HOT ASS HomeHeat Series Sauna Heaters
Power Output: 3 kW
Unique Features: The HomeHeat series is known for its built-in controls and efficient heating
Pros: It includes a large stone capacity and is made from recyclable stainless steel
Cons: The name may not appeal to all buyers, and the warranty details are not clear
Amerec Trend-80S Sauna Heater
Power Output: 8 kW
Unique Features: The Trend-80S is a wall-mounted heater with a robust design for medium-sized saunas
Pros: It features industrial-grade heating elements and a large rock capacity
Cons: The control unit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost
The Basics of Electric Sauna Heaters
Electric sauna heaters are the modern solution for a traditional sauna experience.
They work by heating up rocks within the unit, which then radiate heat throughout the sauna room.
Unlike wood-burning heaters, electric models offer convenience and control at the touch of a button.
With benefits like consistent temperatures and low maintenance, it's no wonder they're a popular choice among sauna enthusiasts.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for an electric sauna heater, there are several key features to keep in mind:
Heating Capacity and Power Consumption: You'll want a heater that can comfortably warm your sauna space without skyrocketing your electric bill
Size and Compatibility: The heater should fit snugly in your sauna without taking up too much space
Safety Features and Certifications: Look for heaters with safety cut-offs and proper certifications to ensure a safe sauna experience
Durability and Material Quality: A heater made from high-quality materials can withstand the test of time and frequent use
Ease of Installation and Maintenance: You don't want a heater that's a hassle to install or keep up
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost: An energy-efficient model will save you money in the long run and is better for the environment
What to Look for in an Electric Sauna Heater
When you're in the market for an electric sauna heater, it's not just about picking the one with the highest wattage or the sleekest design.
Your choice should be tailored to your specific needs and the unique characteristics of your sauna space.
Sauna Size: The size of your sauna is the starting point.
You'll need a heater that's powerful enough to heat the entire space efficiently.
A general rule of thumb is that you need 1 kW of power for every 45 cubic feet of space, but this can vary based on insulation and other factors.
Frequency of Use: How often you plan to use your sauna can influence the type of heater you should choose.
For frequent use, you might want to invest in a more robust model with a higher durability rating.
Personal Preferences: Do you prefer a dry heat or a more humid atmosphere?
Some heaters are better at creating a particular type of climate within your sauna, so consider what kind of experience you're looking for.
Budget: Electric sauna heaters come in a wide range of prices.
Set a budget beforehand, but also consider the long-term costs, such as energy consumption and maintenance.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing an electric sauna heater might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be straightforward.
Here are some tips:
Hire a Professional: If you're not confident in your electrical skills, it's always best to hire a professional to install your sauna heater
This ensures safety and compliance with local building codes.
Follow Instructions: Each heater comes with a manual
Read it thoroughly before starting the installation process.
Maintenance: To keep your heater in top condition, clean it regularly, check for any wear and tear, and replace stones as needed
Safety Precautions: Always adhere to safety guidelines, such as keeping flammable materials away from the heater and ensuring proper ventilation in your sauna
Cost Analysis and Value for Money
When comparing electric sauna heaters, the purchase price is just one part of the equation.
Consider the operating costs and energy efficiency, as these will impact your wallet in the long run.
A more expensive heater might be more cost-effective over time if it's energy-efficient and requires less maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have questions, and you're not alone.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about electric sauna heaters:
Can I pour water on electric sauna heaters?
Yes, most electric heaters are designed to handle water being poured onto the rocks for steam generation.
How long do electric sauna heaters last?
With proper maintenance, a high-quality electric sauna heater can last up to 20 years.
Are electric sauna heaters safe?
Absolutely, as long as they are installed correctly and used according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
