The Difference Between Electric and Wood-Fired Sauna Stove

Saunas have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer undeniable mental and physical health benefits. A sauna allows you to relax, sweat out toxins, and keep your immune system in tip top shape. Is an electric sauna heater superior to a wood-fired sauna stove? Both electric heaters and wood-fired sauna stoves have their advantages and drawbacks. At the end of the day, choosing the right sauna stove for you is a matter of personal preference. A little information on electric sauna heaters and wood-fired sauna stoves will help you decide which model is best for you.

The Modern Convenience of Electricity

An electric sauna heater is an excellent choice if temperature control is a major issue for you. It tends to heat up much faster than a wood-fired sauna stove. It is also much more conductive to being able to make minute changes in the temperature. In order to install an electric sauna heater, you do need access to a reliable electric grid. If your sauna is located in a remote off the grid location, an electric heater may be more of a challenge to operate and install.

An electric sauna heater may be easier to operate and maintain, but it will be slightly more expensive over time. You will certainly see an increase in your electric bill. The priceless health benefits of having regular access to a sauna will surely make a higher electric bill worthwhile. An electric sauna heater does not produce exhaust like a wood-fired sauna stove. Your neighbors may thank you if you opt for an electric sauna heater that doesn’t noticeably degrade the air quality.

The Ancient Ambiance of Wood

Wood-fired sauna stoves remain eternally popular because they recall the ancient origins of saunas. If you crave a timeless, organic experience that puts you in touch with one of earth’s fundamental natural elements—a wood-fired sauna stove is an excellent choice for you. Wood-fired sauna stoves do require the construction of a chimney, and a bit of additional periodic fire safety maintenance. A wood-fired sauna stove is the perfect choice if your sauna is in a remote location where connecting to a reliable electrical grid may be a bit more difficult.

Temperature moderation is more of a challenge with a wood-fired sauna stove, but the comforting smell of burning wood may compensate for this shortfall. A wood-fired sauna stove will release some smoke that can contribute to smog. If you’re in a remote location with relatively clean air, one wood-fired sauna stove won’t make a dramatic difference in the air quality. Purchasing wood to keep your wood-fired sauna stove running can be a little pricey, but if you’re near a forest with a steady wood supply—your wood-fired sauna stove will be very affordable to operate. Electric sauna heaters and wood-fired sauna stoves both have their pros and cons. The perfect choice for you depends on your preference for the modern convenience of electricity, or the ancient ambiance of wood.