When it comes to building the perfect sauna, your heater does all the heavy lifting.

It controls how quickly your sauna heats up, how the heat feels, how much steam (löyly) you can create, what it costs to run, and ultimately how much you enjoy every session.

With so many options available—from compact electric models through to traditional wood-fired heaters—it can be tricky knowing where to start.

Whether you're planning your very first sauna or upgrading an existing one, this guide walks you through the key things to consider before choosing a sauna heater.

 

1. Get the Right Size Heater

This is the biggest mistake people make.

A heater that's too small will take ages to heat your sauna and work much harder than it should. One that's too big can heat the room too quickly, making the experience less comfortable and using more power than necessary.

When working out your sauna size, don't just measure the room. You'll also need to factor in surfaces that absorb heat, including:

• Glass sauna doors
• Large windows
• Stone, brick or tiled walls
• Poorly insulated areas

These all increase the amount of heating required, so choosing the right heater is about more than just cubic metres.

If you're not sure, we're always happy to help you work it out.

 

2. Electric or Wood-Fired?

The next decision is how you want to enjoy your sauna.

Electric Sauna Heaters

Electric heaters are the most popular choice for Australian homes because they're simple, reliable and easy to use.

They're ideal if you want:

• Fast heat-up times
• Consistent temperatures
• Minimal maintenance
• Timers and Wi-Fi control
• A sauna that's ready whenever you are

They're perfect for indoor saunas and anyone who wants convenience without missing out on a proper Finnish sauna experience.

Wood-Fired Sauna Heaters

Love the idea of a crackling fire and a more traditional sauna?

Wood-fired heaters create a unique atmosphere that's hard to beat.

Benefits include:

• Authentic Finnish sauna experience
• Soft, gentle radiant heat
• Natural fire ambience
• Great for off-grid properties
• No reliance on electricity

They do take a little more effort with firewood and chimney installation, but for many sauna lovers, that's all part of the experience.

 

3. Don't Forget About the Stones

The heater gets all the attention, but the stones are just as important.

Sauna stones absorb heat before slowly releasing it back into the room, giving you that soft, even warmth that makes a sauna so enjoyable.

A heater with a larger stone capacity usually provides:

• Softer heat
• Better steam (löyly)
• More consistent temperatures
• Better heat retention
• A more traditional sauna experience

Smaller heaters generally warm up faster but often produce a drier, more intense heat.

Choosing quality sauna stones also helps your heater perform better and last longer.

 

4. Think About Installation Early

Before ordering your heater, it's worth checking a few practical things.

Ask yourself:

• Do you have single-phase or three-phase power?
• Does your sauna allow the required safety clearances?
• Is the ventilation planned correctly?
• Where will the controller go?
• Can the heater be easily serviced later?

Planning ahead can save plenty of headaches down the track.

Electric sauna heaters should always be installed by a licensed electrician to meet Australian standards.

 

5. Pick a Heater That Suits Your Sauna

These days, sauna heaters are as much a design feature as they are a heat source.

Whether you're building a sleek modern sauna or a more traditional timber retreat, your heater should complement the overall look.

Popular styles include:

• Tower heaters with large stone capacity
• Minimal wall-mounted heaters
• Traditional floor-standing models
• Premium stainless steel finishes

Pair the right heater with quality lighting and beautiful timber, and your sauna becomes somewhere you'll genuinely look forward to using.

 

6. Choose the Controls That Suit You

Modern sauna technology has come a long way.

Depending on the heater you choose, you can enjoy features like:

• Built-in controls
• Digital wall controllers
• Heating timers
• Wi-Fi operation
• Smartphone control
• Smart home compatibility

Being able to heat your sauna before you get home is one of those luxuries that quickly becomes something you can't live without.

Of course, if you're more of a traditionalist, simple manual controls still do the job beautifully.

 

7. It's More Than Just the Heater

A great sauna is about the complete experience.

Lighting can completely change the mood of your sauna. Soft, indirect lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere, while feature lighting highlights the natural beauty of the timber.

Quality sauna doors also make a difference. They help retain heat while bringing natural light into the space and making the room feel more open.

When everything works together—your heater, stones, lighting and door—you'll notice the difference every time you step inside.

8. Think About Running Costs

The purchase price is only one part of the equation.

Over the life of your sauna, running costs depend on things like:

• Heater efficiency
• Insulation
• Sauna size
• How often you use it
• Stone capacity

A properly sized heater in a well-insulated sauna will almost always be the most economical option over the long term.

 

9. Buy Once, Buy Well

A quality sauna heater should last for many years.

When comparing brands, don't just look at the price tag.

Consider:

• Warranty
• Manufacturer reputation
• Spare parts availability
• Reliability
• Australian support

The best European manufacturers have been building sauna heaters for generations, and it shows in their quality and performance.

 

10. Ask the Experts

Every sauna is different.

Glass, insulation, ventilation, room size and even how hot you like your sauna all affect which heater is right for you.

Getting expert advice before buying helps ensure you choose the right heater the first time, saving money, time and frustration.

At Sauna Store, we help Australians choose the right heater every day, so if you're unsure, simply get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.

 

The Right Heater Makes All the Difference

Your heater is the heart of your sauna, so it's worth taking the time to choose the right one.

By considering room size, heater type, stone capacity, installation, controls and long-term efficiency, you'll end up with a sauna that's comfortable, reliable and built to last.

Whether you're building your first sauna or upgrading an existing one, we're here to help you find the right products and honest advice—without the guesswork.

Need help choosing a sauna heater?

Browse our range online or get in touch with the team at Sauna Store. We'll help you find the right heater for your space, budget and the way you like to sauna.