When designing or building a sauna, there are certain essential factors that separate the really good saunas from the mediocre ones. Here is a thorough review of the three most important elements that all good saunas have in common. By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure that your sauna provides an optimal experience every time.
1. Optimal construction of the sauna
One of the most fundamental factors for a good sauna is its construction. An important rule is that sauna users must sit over the sauna stove. This principle is based on the phenomenon of heat displacement.
Heat Displacement:
Heat naturally rises upwards, and this applies especially to the steam in a traditional sauna. When you pour water on the sauna heater, steam is created, also known as "löyly" in Finnish. This steam rises, and it is therefore most beneficial for sauna users to sit higher than the stove to enjoy the best air.
Avoid vapor pockets:
Another important aspect of the construction is the shape of the roof. A flat roof works well, but if you have a sloping roof, the sauna heater should be placed on the lower side of the roof. This ensures that the hot air and steam rise towards the sauna benches. If the stove is placed on the higher side, the hot air and steam will collect in the corner of the sauna, and those sitting on the lower side will experience colder and less comfortable air. You should therefore avoid roof forms that create vapor pockets.
Distance to the oven:
It is also important not to sit too close to the sauna heater. Although a small sauna may require this, it is best to sit a little further away. This is because the ovens emit a lot of radiant heat, which is not the most optimal heat in a sauna. The best heat comes from the stove's stones and the heated surfaces in the sauna, which provide a more even and comfortable heat.
2. Good ventilation
Another critical component of a good sauna is the ventilation. Effective ventilation ensures that the air is replaced at least six times an hour. This ensures that you always have enough oxygen and that the air is pleasant to breathe.
Air circulation:
Good ventilation helps to maintain an even temperature between the head and the feet, which provides a more comfortable experience. Without adequate ventilation, there can be large temperature differences between the upper and lower parts of the sauna, which can lead to discomfort.
Removal of steam:
Although steam is desirable in a sauna, it must eventually be removed to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Proper ventilation ensures that the steam leaves the sauna in a controlled manner, thus maintaining a healthy environment.
3. Correct size of the sauna heater
The third important factor is having a correctly sized sauna heater. It is tempting to choose a large oven for quick heating, but this can lead to uneven heat distribution and a less pleasant experience.
Optimal heating:
An oven that is too big can heat up the sauna quickly, but it also gives a ripple effect of heat that feels like a microwave oven. Also, a large oven can heat up the room before the stones have time to get hot enough, which means you won't get the optimal steam when you pour water on the stones.
Avoid overheating and underheating:
On the other hand, a heater that is too small will take too long to heat up the sauna, and it may struggle to reach the desired temperature. This leads to wear and tear on the stove and a less satisfactory sauna experience.
Conclusion
To ensure that your sauna provides a fantastic experience every time, you need to focus on proper construction, good ventilation and a correctly sized sauna heater. These three elements are essential to any good sauna and will help you enjoy all the health benefits and relaxation a sauna can offer.
