Things to Look Out for When Purchasing an Infrared Sauna.

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Purchasing an infrared sauna can be a transformative investment for your health and well-being. However, it's essential to make an informed decision to ensure you get the best value and the safest experience. Here are five key factors to consider when buying an infrared sauna.

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1. Materials: Non-Toxic and Safe

When choosing an infrared sauna, the materials used in it's construction are crucial. Non-toxic materials should be a top priority to ensure your health is not compromised by harmful chemicals. Some typically stable chemicals can become active at high temperatues.

Good Materials:

• Non-Toxic Wood: Cedar and hemlock are excellent choices as they are durable, natually antibacterial, resistant to warping and mold, and emit pleasant aromas without releasing harmful chemicals.
• Natural Glue: Look for saunas that use water-based, non-toxic glue to avoid the risk of inhaling toxic fumes.

Dangerous Materials:

• Toxic Glue: Saunas that use formaldehyde-based glues can release dangerous VOCs (volatile organic compounds), posing health risks.
• Tempered Plastics: While durable, certain plastics can release harmful chemicals when heated, compromising the safety of your sauna experience.
• Using non-toxic materials ensures that the air quality within your sauna remains safe, enhancing the overall health benefits of your sessions.

Eco-Friendly:

It's also a good idea to check the source of your sauna retailer's wood. Ensure it is ethically and sustainably farmed, as some retailers may use logged wood to save on costs.

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2. Electromagnetic Levels: Keeping it Low

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Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are a significant consideration when purchasing an infrared sauna. High EMF exposure has been linked to various health issues, including sleep disturbances, harm to unborn babies and increased cancer risk.

Studies and Standards: Research indicates that prolonged exposure to high EMF levels can be harmful. According to the BioInitiative Report, EMF exposure should be minimised to reduce potential health risks. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Recommends keeping long term exposure below 100mG and short term exposure below 1,000mG.

High-quality infrared saunas typically have EMF levels below 3 milligauss (mG), which is considered safe for extended use. Forge saunas have an EMF reading of just 0.01mG which is the lowest possible detectable reading.

Protection Measures: Reputable sauna manufacturers take steps to reduce EMF exposure, such as using double-shielded wiring and adding extra coatings of rubber over their electrical to absorb and minimize EMF emissions. Always ask for the EMF readings of a sauna before purchasing and opt for models with the lowest possible levels.

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3. Energy Efficiency: Sustainability and Savings

Energy efficiency varies between different sauna models and significantly impacts both the environment and your utility bills.

Factors Affecting Energy Efficiency:

• Insulation Quality: Saunas with superior insulation retain heat better, reducing energy consumption.
• Heater Type: Carbon heaters are generally more energy-efficient than ceramic heaters due to their even heat distribution and lower power consumption.

Questions to Ask: When shopping for an infrared sauna, inquire about its energy consumption but also how long it takes to heat up. A good manufacturer will provide details on the sauna’s energy use, helping you choose a model that aligns with your sustainability goals and budget.

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4. Electrical Standards: Ensuring Safety

Infrared saunas must adhere to specific electrical standards to ensure user safety. These standards vary by region and are designed to prevent electrical hazards.

International Standards:

• Australia: Saunas should comply with the SAAA (Standards Australia) regulations.
• Europe: Look for CE certification, indicating compliance with European health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
• North America: Saunas should have UL or ETL certification, ensuring they meet the necessary safety requirements.

Adhering to these standards is crucial as they guarantee that the sauna’s electrical components are safe and reliable, minimizing the risk of electrical accidents.

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5. Design: Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

The design of an infrared sauna affects its functionality and user experience. Here are some design elements to consider:

Glass vs. Wood:

• Glass: While glass doors and windows can create a more open, airy feel, too much glass can result in heat loss, reducing the sauna's efficiency.
• Wood: A predominantly wooden sauna can retain heat more effectively but might make the space feel more confined and claustrophobic.

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Heater Covers: Sparse heater covers will mean you have more direct access to heat, but may compramise hygiene and longevity of your sauna as you will be sweating into them more. Denser covers may help your sauna last longer. The protective panels on an infrared heater dictate the life and hygiene of the heaters. Adittionally, the better coverage you have on your heaters, the safer it is for children (burn protection).

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Layout and Seating: Consider the layout and seating arrangement within the sauna. Ergonomically designed benches and ample legroom enhance comfort, making your sauna sessions more enjoyable.

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Conclusion

Investing in an infrared sauna is a significant decision that can greatly benefit your health and well-being. By paying attention to the materials, EMF levels, energy efficiency, electrical standards, and design, you can ensure that you choose a sauna that is safe, efficient, and enjoyable. Always do thorough research and ask the right questions to make the best choice for your needs.

For more information and to explore our range of high-quality infrared saunas, visit Forge Saunas or contact our friendly team today.

Your wellness journey starts here!

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