In Pennsylvania, where people seek ways to relax and rejuvenate, saunas are becoming increasingly popular. Two common types of saunas are electric saunas and infrared saunas. Let's explore how their heating efficiency and costs compare, as well as the materials that work best with each system.
Electric saunas typically use traditional heating elements to warm the air in the sauna room. This method can take some time to heat up the space thoroughly. On the other hand, infrared saunas use infrared heaters that emit radiant heat directly to the body. Infrared heat penetrates the skin more deeply and can heat the body more quickly than the air in an electric sauna. As a result, infrared saunas often have a faster heating time and can reach the desired temperature more efficiently.
In terms of initial costs, electric saunas can be less expensive to purchase and install compared to infrared saunas. However, when it comes to operating costs, infrared saunas can be more energy-efficient. Electric saunas consume a significant amount of electricity to maintain the high temperatures, while infrared saunas use less energy as they heat the body directly rather than the entire room. Over time, this can lead to savings on energy bills for those who use infrared saunas regularly.
For electric saunas, materials such as cedar and hemlock are popular choices. Cedar has a pleasant aroma and is known for its durability and resistance to moisture. Hemlock is also a good option as it is relatively inexpensive and has a smooth texture. These woods can withstand the heat generated by electric heaters and provide a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Infrared saunas often use materials like carbon fiber or ceramic heaters. Carbon fiber heaters are lightweight, efficient, and can emit a consistent level of infrared heat. Ceramic heaters are also known for their durability and even heat distribution. The sauna walls can be made of materials such as basswood or spruce, which are lightweight and have good insulation properties. These materials help to retain the heat generated by the infrared heaters and create an efficient sauna experience.