An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared light to heat the body directly rather than heating the air. Infrared saunas have become increasingly popular in recent years due to purported health benefits like weight loss, detoxification, and pain relief. Many people are interested in installing an infrared sauna in their home for personal use, but commercial saunas can be very expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. A popular question is whether it is possible to build your own DIY infrared sauna at home for a fraction of the cost of buying a pre-made one. In this article, we will look at the considerations around building your own infrared sauna, including the materials needed, safety considerations, and estimated costs.
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What is an infrared sauna?
Infrared saunas work differently than traditional steam saunas. While steam saunas heat the air to high temperatures, infrared saunas use infrared lamps that emit infrared light waves that are absorbed by the body. This heats the body directly rather than heating the air. There are a few different types of infrared waves:
- Near infrared: These short waves are closest to the visible light spectrum and penetrate the outer layer of skin.
- Mid infrared: These medium waves penetrate deeper into the body’s tissues.
- Far infrared: These long waves penetrate deepest to heat the body from the inside out.
Infrared saunas usually use far infrared waves. The infrared light causes the water molecules in your body to vibrate, creating heat that warms your body from the inside similar to how the sun warms your skin.
Benefits of infrared saunas
Some proposed benefits of infrared sauna use include:
- Weight loss and calorie burn – Infrared waves are thought to help burn calories. A 30-minute sauna session could burn 300-600 calories.
- Detoxification – Infrared waves may help expel toxins and heavy metals by sweating.
- Improved circulation – The heat expands blood vessels and may improve blood flow.
- Pain relief – The heat can help temporarily relieve muscle and joint pain.
- Skin purification – Sweating opens pores and may help reduce acne and other skin issues.
- Relaxation – Infrared waves have mild sedative effects for relaxation.
- Lower blood pressure – Heat sessions may help lower blood pressure over time.
Is it safe to build your own sauna?
While it is technically possible to build your own infrared sauna, it is important to take safety precautions. Infrared saunas expose the body to high heat over extended periods, so safety considerations are paramount.
Some key safety factors if building your own sauna include:
- Electrical safety – Infrared saunas require wiring to power the IR lamps. Improper electrical work could result in hazardous shocks or burns.
- Fire risk – The prolonged exposure to heating elements can create a fire hazard if the sauna is not properly constructed.
- Ventilation – Air circulation is important to prevent overheating. Lack of ventilation could result in unsafe air temperatures.
- Materials safety – Using proper materials designed for high heat is crucial to prevent hazmat off-gassing.
- Limiting exposure – It’s important to limit sessions to safe durations and temperatures to avoid overheating or dehydration.
Following building codes and using materials specifically designed for infrared sauna construction is highly advised to minimize risk.
What materials do you need to build an infrared sauna?
Building an infrared sauna requires procuring specific materials to withstand high temperatures over time. Many of these materials can be found at hardware stores or specialty online retailers.
Infrared heating system
The infrared heating system is the most technical component. Options include:
- Infrared heat emitter panels – These carbon and ceramic fiber panels emit infrared radiation efficiently across large surface areas. They come in sizes up to 60×60 inches.
- Infrared heat lamps – These screw-in bulbs emit focused infrared light. They typically use 250-1500 watt bulbs.
The panels are easier to install as full coverage while the lamps require more custom wiring. The heating system must cover 40-50% of the sauna’s wall space to evenly heat the user’s body. Most DIY saunas use a combination of panels and lamps for even heating.
Electrical components
You’ll need proper electrical wiring and components for safety:
- Dedicated electrical circuit – Infrared saunas require their own circuit rated for the required wattage.
- Wiring and conduit – Safer to run wiring through protective conduit pipes.
- Outlets – Grounded and covered outlets to plug in the infrared heating system.
- Control panel – Allows control of the heat settings and timers.
- Optional: Low EMF shielded wiring – Minimizes magnetic field emissions for health concerns.
Sauna structure
The sauna structure should be made of:
- Wood framing – Cedar wood is naturally rot-resistant.
- Tongue and groove boards – These interlock tightly for minimal heat warping.
- Insulation – Reflective insulation helps retain heat. Fiberglass should be avoided.
- Waterproof floor and ceiling.
- Sealed door – Well-fitted to minimize heat and steam escaping.
- Bench – Made of heat-resistant wood without varnishes.
- Optional: glass door – Allows infrared waves to pass through.
Many kits are available that provide pre-cut wood pieces and instructions specifically for infrared sauna construction.
Other materials
Other materials that are useful for building an infrared sauna:
- Waterproof adhesive and sealant
- Reflective heat shielding
- Heating warning sign
- Thermometer and hygrometer
- Lighting
- Speakers
- Towels
Sauna size and design
Infrared saunas can be customized to fit spaces ranging from 1-person units up to 6+ person family-sized saunas.
Some common infrared sauna sizes:
| Size | Dimensions (feet) | Capacity |
| 1 person | 3 x 2 x 6 | 1 adult |
| 2 person | 4 x 3 x 6 | 2 adults |
| 3 person | 4 x 4 x 6 | 2 adults + 1 child |
| 4 person | 5 x 4 x 6 | 2-3 adults + 2 children |
| 5 person | 5 x 5 x 6 | 3 adults + 2 children |
The dimensions can be customized, but height is typically 6-7 feet. The weight limit per bench is around 200 lbs. Spacing of at least 36 inches between the infrared heaters and the users is recommended.
Some infrared sauna design considerations:
- Prefabricated vs custom-built – Prefab kits are simpler but custom can be tailored.
- Indoor vs outdoor – Outdoor requires waterproofing.
- Portable or permanent – Portable saunas can be dismantled and moved.
- Corner unit – Makes use of unused corner space.
How to build an infrared sauna step-by-step
Building an infrared sauna is an involved project, but can be tackled by someone with intermediate DIY skills. Here is an overview of the end-to-end process:
1. Design layout and size
Decide on size and dimensions based on available space and number of users. Sketch out a floor plan and design.
2. Install electrical
Install a dedicated electrical circuit and wire outlets where needed per electrical codes. Hardwired is preferred.
3. Build sauna structure
Construct a watertight wooden frame, insulate thoroughly, and add exterior finish boards. Build door and benches.
4. Install heating system
Position and install infrared heating panels and lamps per manufacturer instructions for coverage.
5. Add components
Install control panel, lighting, speakers, thermometer, safety signage, etc.
6. Test and use
Test to ensure proper heating function and electrical safety. Start enjoying your sauna!
Safety tips
It’s critical to adhere to safety guidelines when building and using your sauna:
- Follow all electrical codes – Install GFCI outlets and use shielded, in-conduit wiring.
- Ventilate properly – Leave gaps at the ceiling and floor for airflow.
- Use moisture-resistant materials.
- Limit time to 30 mins or less per session.
- Keep hydrated and cool off between sessions.
- Sit on a towel and wear proper footwear.
- Don’t use while under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
How much does it cost to build your own infrared sauna?
The costs of building your own infrared sauna can range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the size, materials, and features you choose.
Some of the main costs include:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| Wood, insulation | $500 – $2,000 |
| Heating system | $500 – $1,500 |
| Electrical work | $200 – $500 |
| Door, hardware | $300 – $1,000 |
| Bench | $100 – $300 |
| Other extras | $200 – $500 |
The electrical work and heating system tend to be the most expensive components. Buying a pre-fabricated sauna kit can reduce costs compared to sourcing all the materials separately. Overall, expect to spend $1500 to $4000 to build a high quality sauna comparable to commercial units.
Potential ways to reduce costs
Some ways to potentially lower the costs of a DIY infrared sauna include:
- Use an existing shed structure for the frame
- Purchase discounted materials from clearance or wholesale suppliers
- Use a modular kit with pre-cut parts
- Install yourself rather than hiring electrician (if qualified)
- Use inexpensive heat lamps instead of panels
- Purchase used materials from dismantled saunas
- Use a compact, corner design
However, it’s important not to sacrifice proper electrical safety, ventilation, or materials in order to cut costs when building your own sauna.
Conclusion
Building your own infrared sauna is an involved but rewarding project that can save thousands of dollars compared to purchasing a pre-made sauna. With proper design, materials, and adherence to safety guidelines, a functional, high quality infrared sauna can be constructed DIY-style for $1500 to $4000 depending on size and features. Be sure to research thoroughly, purchase specialty sauna materials, and consult qualified professionals like electricians to ensure safety throughout the project. With some carpentry skills and electrical know-how, you can successfully create an infrared sauna customized to your space.