Buying a home infrared sauna is a significant investment — and with so many options available at vastly different price points, it can be genuinely difficult to know where to start.
This guide cuts through the noise and gives you a clear, practical framework for choosing the right infrared sauna for your home, your needs and your budget. No jargon, no padding — just everything you actually need to know.
Step 1: Choose the Right Size
The first and most important decision is how many people will regularly use the sauna. This determines the size you need, which in turn affects price, space requirements and running costs.
1-Person Saunas
Ideal for solo users or couples who don't mind using it separately. Compact enough to fit in a spare bedroom, large bathroom or garden room. Footprint is typically around 90cm x 90cm. Starting price for quality models: around £1,500.
2-Person Saunas
The most popular choice for couples or those who want a more comfortable solo experience with room to stretch out. Typically 120cm x 100cm. A good balance of space, price and running costs. Starting price: around £2,200.
3-4 Person Saunas
Suitable for families or those who want the spa experience at home — enough room to recline or practise light stretching. Footprint of around 150cm x 120cm or larger. Starting price: around £3,000.
Practical tip: Always measure your intended space before purchasing, including ceiling height. Most infrared saunas are around 190-195cm tall. Factor in sufficient clearance around the unit for ventilation and access.
Step 2: Understand Heater Types
The heater is the heart of an infrared sauna — and not all heaters are equal. There are three main types used in home infrared saunas.
Carbon Fibre Heaters
The most common type in modern home saunas. Carbon fibre heaters emit long-wave far-infrared radiation, which penetrates deeply into body tissue and heats the body efficiently at lower temperatures. They heat up quickly, distribute heat evenly across large panel surfaces, and are energy efficient. Recommended for most home users.
Ceramic Heaters
The original infrared sauna heater technology. Ceramic heaters emit intense, focused heat and reach high temperatures quickly. Some users find the heat more intense than carbon heaters — better for those who prefer a more traditional sauna feel. Slightly less energy efficient than carbon.
Full Spectrum Heaters
The premium option. Full spectrum heaters emit near, mid and far-infrared wavelengths simultaneously. Near-infrared supports skin health and cellular regeneration; mid-infrared improves circulation; far-infrared provides deep tissue penetration. If budget allows, full spectrum saunas offer the broadest range of therapeutic benefits.
Step 3: Check EMF Levels
EMF — electromagnetic field radiation — is emitted by all electrical devices, including infrared sauna heaters. While the levels produced by most home appliances are considered safe, this is a topic many infrared sauna buyers understandably want to understand.
When comparing saunas, look for models that specify their EMF output in milligauss (mG). Industry-leading manufacturers publish third-party tested EMF levels. As a benchmark, quality low-EMF saunas typically measure below 3mG at body position — well within internationally recognised safe limits.
Be cautious of brands that don't publish EMF data or use vague language like "ultra-low EMF" without providing verified figures. Reputable UK suppliers will provide this information readily.
Step 4: Verify CE Certification
This is non-negotiable for any infrared sauna purchased in the UK.
CE certification confirms that a product meets European health, safety and environmental protection standards. For an electrically powered product like an infrared sauna — one that you'll be sitting inside at elevated temperatures — this certification is essential.
Always ask for CE certification documentation before purchasing. Reputable UK suppliers will provide this without hesitation. If a supplier is vague or evasive about certification, walk away.
Step 5: Assess the Wood Quality
The wood used in a sauna's construction affects both its longevity and your experience inside it.
Canadian Hemlock — the most common wood used in quality home saunas. Lightweight, resistant to warping, low odour and hypoallergenic. Excellent choice for most buyers.
Western Red Cedar — the premium option. Naturally fragrant, beautifully grained and highly resistant to moisture and bacteria. Cedar saunas are typically more expensive but age exceptionally well.
Avoid: vague descriptions like "solid wood" or "hardwood" without specifying the species. These are common indicators of lower quality construction.
Step 6: Check Warranty and After-Sales Support
For a product at this price point, warranty terms matter. Look for:
- Minimum 3 years on the cabin structure and heaters
- 5 years on premium models
- A UK-based point of contact for warranty claims — not a overseas call centre
- Clarity on what the warranty covers and the claims process
Also ask about spare parts availability. A sauna is a long-term investment — you want to know that replacement heaters, control panels and glass doors can be sourced years down the line.
Step 7: Consider Installation Requirements
One of the most appealing aspects of modern home infrared saunas is how straightforward they are to install.
Most quality infrared saunas:
- Plug into a standard 13 amp UK wall socket (no electrician required)
- Come in flat-pack sections that two people can assemble in 30-60 minutes
- Require no plumbing
- Can be installed indoors or in a garden room, garage or outbuilding
Larger 4+ person models may require a 16 amp or 32 amp supply — check specifications carefully before purchasing if you're considering a larger model.
What to Expect to Pay
Here's an honest guide to pricing in the UK market:
| Category | Price Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Entry level | £800 — £1,400 | Basic carbon heaters, limited warranty, standard wood |
| Mid range | £1,500 — £2,800 | Quality carbon or ceramic heaters, 3yr warranty, CE certified |
| Premium | £2,800 — £5,000 | Full spectrum heaters, premium cedar, 5yr warranty, low EMF |
| Luxury | £5,000+ | Bespoke builds, commercial grade, lifetime warranties |
For most home buyers, the mid-range to premium category offers the best combination of quality, longevity and value. Avoid the temptation of entry-level models — the difference in build quality and therapeutic benefit is significant.
A Note on Buying From UK Suppliers
We'd always recommend purchasing from a UK-based supplier rather than importing directly from overseas. UK suppliers offer:
- Faster delivery — typically 3-7 working days versus 4-8 weeks
- CE certification compliant with UK standards
- UK-based warranty support
- No customs charges or import duties
- Products wired for UK plug sockets
At NordVita, every sauna we stock comes from trusted UK suppliers, is CE certified, and includes free delivery across mainland UK. Our team is always available to help you choose the right model for your space and requirements.
[Browse our full infrared sauna range →]
Published by NordVita — Premium Home Wellness, Delivered Across the UK