Deciding to build your own infrared sauna is a big step in planning well and promoting your good health. But careful research is still needed. There are many options when it comes to purchasing a far infrared heater for your sauna, and not all types are created equal.
To choose the best infrared heating element, first look at the electromagnetic spectrum. All types of light (both visible and invisible) exist in what is known as the electromagnetic spectrum. As we move from visible light to longer wavelengths of light, we see our infrared rays.
Not many people know that infrared is actually divided into three types: near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared. The boundaries between each are a little fuzzy and really depend on the method used to measure the kill. But the divisions are there. As for saunas, far infrared radiation produces the strongest infrared benefits, being the shortest of the three.
Traditional saunas rely on the processes of convection and conduction to work. That means they heat the air (convection) which in turn heats our skin (conduction) as we sit in the sauna. But the infrared hot air does not work at all. Its direct heating action allows the infrared rays to work directly on our bodies, without using hot air as a medium. Infrared rays similar to the sun (but without the harmful effects of UV rays).
This means that infrared-sauna heaters can operate at a lower surface temperature than traditional heaters. In addition, they are more efficient agents and cheaper to operate. Most of the infrared heaters can block the output of the flag. However, some larger models will require a special 15 to 20 amp dedicated plug that must be installed by an electrician. So if you’re looking to buy heaters for your infrared sauna, make sure you have the hardware you need to operate it before you decide.
Infrared heaters are very different from the traditional heating elements that we have come to see in saunas. They look more like sheets or plates than anything else. They are very thin and flat. Infrared radiation requires a large surface to work effectively, the bigger the better with infrared sauna heaters. Some heaters come in the form of incoloy rods instead of plates, but they are not a good choice as their small surface area will compromise their ability to properly diffuse infrared.
Most infrared heating elements are constructed with carbon fiber or ceramic materials. Finding emissivity tables (the ability of an object to produce infrared radiation) helps to evaluate the various materials available. Ceramic heaters have the highest emissivity value. Not incidentally, they are the only emitters that can truly emit far-infrared rays, instead of near- or mid-infrared rays. For users who want the best infrared sauna experience, the earth would be the wisest choice.
Doing your homework is absolutely necessary when choosing a far infrared heater for your sauna. In general, ceramic heaters will be the best, but you’ll always want to ask about the release of the specific model you’re considering purchasing. Also remember that you want to cover a large surface area with your heaters and what type of electric outlet you need to work well. Don’t be afraid to ask. After all, the quality of the heater you buy will determine what kind of infrared sauna experience you will have in the future. So you have the right to make an informed choice!
