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Infrared Saunas
Infrared Saunas Explained
Infrared saunas are a revolutionary step in sauna technology, and one that can
generate strong opinions among sauna enthusiasts. Because infrared saunas use
different technology, different materials, and create an experience that is
slightly different from a traditional sauna, it is inevitable that bathers
around the world vary in their feelings for this alternative sauna heating
mechanism.
The infrared heater, which operates quite differently from a traditional sauna
heater, has added a completely new dimension to the sauna experience and paved
the way for many more people to become sauna enthusiasts.
How do Infrared Saunas Work?
Infrared saunas work using infrared heaters to convert light directly to heat.
This heat has the effect of warming nearby objects without raising the air
temperature; in others words, a bather in an infrared sauna absorbs heat but the
surrounding air does not.
Far-infrared radiant (FIR) heat is often confused with ultraviolet (UV)
radiation because both types of energy are present in the sun’s rays. However,
FIR does not damage the skin the way UV does while still providing many of the
benefits of natural sunlight.
What are the Health Benefits of an Infrared Sauna?
In infrared saunas, heat penetrates deep into body tissues in a way that a
traditional sauna cannot. This deep tissue warmth is great for sore muscles,
stiffness, and joint pain, especially the kind of chronic pain that comes from
arthritis.
The infrared sauna heater warms up and is ready for use much more quickly than a
traditional sauna room heater (usually in 10 to 20 minutes, compared to at least an
hour) and it uses much less energy. And because the air itself does not get hot
in infrared saunas, they are suitable for people with respiratory issues who
find it uncomfortable or even risky to go in a traditional sauna. Bathers in
infrared saunas also can enjoy the benefits of the sauna at a much lower temperature
than in a traditional sauna.
Cost, Installation and Maintenance
Generally speaking, infrared saunas are less expensive, easier to install, and
require less maintenance than traditional saunas. They come in many sizes and
are often quite portable, making them a great choice for a home sauna when there
is limited space available.
While the upfront cost of a far-infrared sauna is quite reasonable, a great deal
more savings is realized when it comes to installation. An infrared sauna heater
does not use water so there is no need for moisture barriers, special drainage
systems, or complex electrical wiring. Maintenance is much less involved as
well, since there are no water-borne bacteria to take up residence inside and
the sauna itself stays nice and dry.
Next > How does the Infrared Sauna Compare to a Traditional Sauna?
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