Infrared
sauna - history, health benefits and technology
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 suns
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 saunas 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.
How does the infrared sauna compare to a traditional
sauna?
We have already talked about some of the differences between
infrared saunas and traditional saunas, so lets look at a few more
comparisons as well.
The health benefits of infrared saunas are comparable to those
of traditional saunas. These benefits may include:
Improved blood circulation
Cleansing of body toxins via the skin, pores and sweat glands
Easing of pain and discomfort caused by arthritis
Relaxation
Stress relief
Relief of muscle soreness
Social interaction and a sense of community
Some sauna enthusiasts say they have a better experience in
infrared saunas, while others much prefer the moist heat of a traditional
sauna. Because of the dissimilarity in air temperature and humidity
between the two sauna types, some bathers do respond differently from
one to the other.
For example, infrared saunas have the following unique characteristics:
Dry air is better tolerated by bathers with some respiratory issues
Cooler air is better tolerated by bathers with some medical conditions
FIR heating is similar to the natural sun, which benefits some people
with vitamin deficiencies or Seasonal Affective Disorder
Deep penetration of FIR energy is thought to be more effective for
sore and injured muscles
By contrast, traditional saunas have the following unique characteristics:
Hot, moist air can be beneficial for people with asthma, sinus congestion,
and general head/neck colds
Frequent use may leave skin feeling dry, but less so than with infrared
saunas
All-over warmth of moist air is more soothing, enveloping and relaxing
for some people
In most cases, the partiality for infrared saunas or traditional
saunas comes down to personal preference. If you are unsure of which
type of sauna you will enjoy most then it is a good idea try using both
types, several times if possible. This is the best way to determine
the best fit for your needs.
What should I look for in an infrared sauna?
When you decide to shop for infrared saunas, it is important
to gather as much information and do as much research as possible. You
can look online, visit your local library, and check with local dealers
who sell infrared saunas. While features and specifications can vary
widely, here are a few things to look for in an infrared sauna:
Light or white-colored wood construction
Comfortable seating
Sufficient light for reading, but not so bright as to be glaring
Easy installation and secure joining of panels and seams
Infrared heaters made with true ceramic infrared lamps rather than
steel rods covered with a ceramic coating
Lifetime warranty on infrared heaters
Local maintenance and repair services
Size and shape to suit your needs and your available space
Overall quality construction that does not appear flimsy or misaligned
Infrared saunas are extremely popular alternatives to traditional
saunas, providing substantial benefit to regular users and making the
sauna experience accessible to a wider range of people.
Summary
Saunas have come a long way from the original versions dug into
an embankment and using a wood fire to heat stones. The advent of better
technology, better materials, and greater understanding of sauna benefits
has helped make the sauna popular across the globe.
Infrared saunas are an important link in the evolution of sauna
technology, and they have proved themselves to be energy efficient as
well as beneficial to the health and well-being of bathers. If you are
interested in buying a home sauna then you would be well served to give
careful consideration to modern infrared saunas.
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