Infrared vs Traditional Sauna: What’s the Difference
Saunas which have been around in some form or another for thousands of years are growing even more popular in modern times. Today, there are two types of saunas that are commonly available, and they are quite different in how they handle heat. They are the infrared vs traditional sauna.
Traditional Sauna Basics
First, there is the traditional sauna. A traditional sauna is centered on creating radiant heat through a process of heating stones and pouring water over the stones. This process creates steam, elevates humidity and increases the ambient temperature. The steam in a traditional sauna is what draws sweat from the body. Traditional saunas take about 45 minutes to pre-heat with most bathers waiting until the room has achieved an interior temperature of 135 – 195 degrees. Typical session time varies but the average is approximately 15 to 20 minutes to heat the body and induce a sweat. The user can adjust the temperature of the air by the amount and frequency of the water poured over the rocks, with the body experiencing an increase of moist heat.
Infrared Sauna Basics
The second type of sauna that is commonly found is the infrared sauna. As a more efficient and advanced delivery system, the infrared sauna directly warms the user, and the air temperature is heated by default. An infrared sauna takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes for the emitters to reach the desired temperature (approximately 115 to 135 degrees F), at which point the user enters and sits next to the thermal heat emitters. This allows the body to be heated directly by the infrared, radiant heat. A typical session of 20 to 30 minutes induces a deep sweat and completes the session. The goal is for the body to be in close proximity to the heat emitters for optimal effect.
The infrared vs traditional sauna is all about using light energy to create heat vs hot rocks to create steam heat. The heat generated by an infrared sauna heats the body versus the inner space. The space is the room, cabinet, tent, blanket or perhaps compartment that makes up the sauna itself. The heat must be encased within the structure in order for the sauna to do its job.
Infrared vs Traditional Sauna Differences
Brief History of Traditional Saunas
Research suggests that infrared vs traditional sauna designs not only impact the thermal experience, but also the effectiveness of heat in treating various ailments. Saunas, in the past were used for many different practices with relaxation being one of the most frequent activities. In places such as Finland, saunas are a traditional staple. The country has the most saunas in the world. In Finland, saunas may be found in public areas, at swimming pools and spas. Going to the sauna is very much a part of Finnish culture. Saunas were considered a sterile environment where many of life’s activities could take place. The thermal systems are ideal in a frigid climate driving people to seek comfort throughout the year.
Traditional saunas however, reach incredibly high temperatures. It is very possible for the temperature in a Finnish sauna to reach over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. While observing the differences between infrared vs traditional sauna characteristics, it is evident that infrared saunas produce less ambient heat. Infrared saunas need not exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit to heat the body. As a result, infrared saunas are found to be more effective and comfortable in relation to use.
Infrared Sauna Benefits
Infrared saunas deliver spectrum rays to heat the body. They have been found to be more effective in treating issues such as deep tissue pain, muscle soreness, cardiovascular issues, and other stress-related problems. The infrared wavelengths are capable of penetrating the skin at its deeper layers to promote healing. Traditional saunas generate heat and steam to draw out sweat which is beneficial for removing toxins. Infrared saunas take the process to the next level by offering greater health benefits.
Infrared vs Traditional Sauna for Home Use
Taking the time out to visit a sauna once meant that a person had to go to a gym, yoga studio, fitness center or medical facility to enjoy the benefits of a good session. Today, for a small investment, people can purchase their own sauna either infrared or traditional for home use. When considering infrared vs traditional sauna products, the selection offers some affordable options for home installation as well as portable systems.
Both infrared vs traditional saunas offer variations in design and technical features that enable an end-users to customize their experience. In cases where having a home sauna built is not feasible, people can still experience the benefits of heat therapy with infrared technology with compact units that are foldable. The flexibility of having a sauna on the go is priceless for individuals needing the systems for pain relief.
Traditional vs Infrared Saunas – Energy, Size & Customization Considerations
Traditional saunas and infrared saunas can be placed indoors or outdoors. Both systems use energy and require adequate connections in order to operate however, infrared saunas may be more efficient as they generate less heat thereby using less energy. Saunas are designed to accommodate as many as 8 people and in some cases more. Personal infrared and traditional saunas can be custom designed to meet the specifications of end-use. Additionally, it is possible to invest in a unit that is prefabricated. Prefabricated units are easier to install and often an economical choice. There are benefits and drawbacks to installing a sauna indoors or outdoors however, it is ultimately up to the end-user to decide what makes the most sense.
Building a sauna whether infrared or traditional in style can certainly be an enjoyable undertaking. Understand that there are many options available for both infrared vs traditional sauna models. Units can be customized down to the type of materials that they are built from including rich woods and ceramic heating elements. If the desire is to achieve the most health benefits with proven results, then an infrared sauna may be an ideal choice. Should the focus be related to the health benefits of relaxation and detoxification, then perhaps a traditional sauna is the way to go. In either case, choosing a unit that is durable and efficient will deliver the best results.
