Frequently Asked Questions

Here are many of the more Frequently Asked Questions - with their answers. If you need to know more, we're here to help...

What is the correct Stove size (kW)?

Stove size in kilowatts (kW) is directly related to the Sauna-room's volume - assuming it has been correctly built and insulated.

To determine 'volume', measure the width, depth and height of sauna room (in metres) and multiply them together.
e.g. A sauna of 2.2m wide x 1.75m deep x 2.1m high = just over 8 cu.m.

For Saunas up to about 10 cubic metres the general rule is appx 1kW per cu.m.
(Add appx 1.2 cu.m for each all-glass door, or any large window)
Thus our 8 cu.m room would probably best be served by an 8.0kW stove.

To verify this rough calculation (and for larger sauna rooms) see the 'full details' pages for our stoves, where the suggested sauna volumes are shown for each model.

In general, select a stove that is working in the bottom part of its range, not at the top end of its capacity. Too small a stove will be the cause of annoyance; however note that there is also no point in 'over-powering' the sauna!

In our 8 cu.m example, an 8.0kW Scandia stove is recommended for saunas from 7 to 13 cu.m - thus 8.0kW an excellent choice. However a 6.0kW stove (5 to 9 cu.m) would be working close to the top end of its capacity; thus it is not the best option.

(Note that Stoves over 8kW usually require a 3-phase electrical supply; thus we suggest to keep the volume of domestic (home) saunas to no more than appx 10-12 cu.m)

Need help? Please call out FREEphone advice line 0500 432 132 or use our 'Contact Us' on-line enquiry form - we'll be happy to advise!

What electrical supply is needed for the sauna stove?

See the individual Stove details - usually a dedicated supply is used, much the same as for an electric shower or cooker.

To calculate Amps:
Divide Watts (e.g. 6000 for 6kw stove) by Volts (usually 230)
Thus Amps for 6kW Stove = appx 26

We very strongly recommend that you use the services of a properly qualified electrician, meeting all the new Government Regulations including 'Part P' - your electrician will know what this means.

Refer to your electrician for all electrical supply/wiring/fusing advice; the electrical regulations don't allow us to give any such advice over the phone.

This link may be helpful:

Adobe Acrobat document Download: New Rules For Electrical Safety In The Home.pdf (0.24Mb)

Is there a floor provided?

Indoor Saunas come ready to mount onto your own floor finish. Any easily cleaned and water-resistant surface is fine; e.g. a 'kitchen type' vinyl is good - they come in nice tile prints, too - for example, see the one we've used in all our 'stock size' sauna photos, we bought it at a local department store.

Are the external walls clad?

Yes, all our stock-size Saunas are fully finished on all four external sides.
All Sauna ceilings usually have a utility finish to their upper (unseen) sides.
All our stock Saunas are supplied complete with ceilings - we take them off for most of the photos, in order to best display their interior layouts.

What brand are our Sauna Stoves?

They are made by Sawo - the world's most dynamic specialist Sauna Stove manufacturer - the one with the style, the high specifications - and the amazing prices!

For full information about Sawo please click here

Note: Sawo Sauna products are most definitely NOT the inferior Chinese copies that have recently found their way into the European Sauna market...

How long will my Sauna last?

Given good care, a domestic Sauna will last a very long time! In 21 years, we have yet to replace a domestic sauna because it was worn out.

How much time should I allow to properly enjoy a sauna?

Plenty! For the full benefits to body and mind, this is the time to take your time.
Relax - unwind - enjoy. Be at peace.
If we have to put a time to it - allow up to two hours.
If you're in a hurry, why not wait until you aren't?

How long will the sauna take to reach bathing temperature?

Always allow an hour - it may well get to temperature sooner, but the sauna experience is the better at an hour. All our Stoves are fitted with a 'time delay start' function, making pre-heating so easy.

What is the correct bathing temperature?

Just as you like it!
Unlike a steambath, a sauna can be enjoyed at a very wide range of temperatures and humidity levels.
What feels right to you - is right!
If we have to give numbers - from 60 to 90 deg C covers most bather's tastes. Our Stoves have thermostats that will allow temperatures from about 40 to 100 deg C to be set, and automatically maintained. Enjoy!

What does it cost run a sauna bath in my home?

Far less than most people imagine!

The most popular size of stove is 6kW - this type cannot consume more than 60 pence worth of electricity per hour (at typical 2007 household rates) - even if you left the door wide open!

Because all our Stoves are thermostatic (and we trust you will close the door...) something like 45p per hour would be more normal. Thus if we pre-heat for an hour, and bathe for another hour, it's only likely to cost around 90 pence... one of life's little bargains!

It's true - a really good long sauna session for four people costs less than one half-pint of beer (and four straws...) at your local pub!

Does the sauna require floor drainage?

No, not at home, though 'nice to have' if starting a new build, or an extension?
It is a good idea in commercial service, where cleaning loads are so much higher.

Is any special ventilation required?

In short - no, it isn't.
For a domestic Sauna installation, the Sauna itself will usually ventilate itself from and back into the room in which it stands.
That room should be treated as regards ventilation as if it were a bathroom - usually, an opening window is all that's needed.
Just as with a bathroom, any more sophisticated ventilation arrangements such as extractor fans, etc are 'nice to have'.
Remember, a standard Sauna Stove delivers totally dry heat - the only water involved is that which is applied by the bather.
Thus a normal hot shower running in a bathroom may well produce more 'steam' than your Sauna...

Do I have to paint my sauna, or otherwise treat the wooden surfaces?

Inside the sauna - most definitely not - don't do it!
On the exterior (of indoor saunas) - as you please - it doesn't actually need any treatment, but you can varnish, oil, even paint if you must - but why spoil the lovely natural appearance of fine Finnish timber?
Outdoor Saunas must, of course, have their exteriors treated with preservative - we stock a suitable type.

How quickly can I have my sauna delivered?

Very quickly! We can usually despatch within 2 working days, and the sauna should be with you inside a week.
Most types only take a few hours to assemble.
Once the electrics have been connected - it's ready!
Enjoy....

I need a 'special size' Sauna - can you help?

Yes - certainly!

'Build-In' and DIY Sauna construction techniques (click here) can allow almost any space to be utilised.

We offer a full service to those customers needing to 'Build-In' - starting with a wide range of DIY Packages (click here) through to a complete Design & Specification Service for those more 'involved'projects - (click here) for details.

All the specialist timbers, fittings and parts needed are in stock at SaunaShop; to browse this section of our website (click here)

For further information on this popular option where 'only the right size and shape will do' please e-mail or phone (free) on 0500 432 132 to discuss your needs.

Can I have a Gas Sauna Stove?

Gas-fired stoves are only made for the very largest of commercial saunas, where the high costs of installation and maintenance are bearable.
As far as we know, there are no gas-fired saunas in Britain.

For most applications, electric stoves are easiest to install with the lowest purchase price (especially at SaunaShop!), are virtually maintenance-free and are enjoyed with low running costs too - typical domestic and light commercial stoves use only 50-75 pence per hour in electricity. Click here to browse Electric Stoves

Larger Outdoor Saunas may use Woodburning Sauna Stoves - we stock this type along with the necessary Chimneys and Heat Shields. Again, the higher cost of purchase and installation needs to be taken in consideration.

Note sure which type would be best? Have a look at the Woodburning section of our website (click here) or call us for advice on Freephone 0500 432 132

What are 'Infra-Red Saunas'?

These are really 'Heat Treatment Cabins' - and probably shouldn't called Saunas, as the experience of using one is quite unlike the traditional Sauna.

Infra-red cabins offer simple installation with short heat-up times; we offer a range of five models, all at highly attractive prices - please click here to see them!

I have a specific Sauna query - can I to talk to someone knowledgeable?

Of course! We're always happy to help!
Please call our FREE advice and information number: 0500 432 132, or use our e-mail enquiry service - see the 'contact us' page

Do SaunaShop prices include V.A.T?

Yes, VAT is included in all SaunaShop prices
(The only surprises at SaunaShop are pleasant surprises!)