A Panning Guide for Homeowners

Choosing between an indoor and outdoor sauna is one of the first major decisions in planning a home wellness space. Both options can deliver a traditional high-heat sauna experience when properly designed and installed. The difference lies in integration, infrastructure, and long-term ownership considerations.

This guide outlines the key planning factors to evaluate before making your decision.

Space & Placement Considerations

Indoor Sauna Model

An indoor sauna is typically installed within:

• A dedicated wellness room
• A bathroom expansion
• A basement
• A home gym
• A primary suite addition
  

Indoor installations benefit from existing conditioned space and structural protection.

Outdoor Sauna Model

• Backyards
• Poolside environments
• Patio areas
• Garden Settings

Outdoor units must be constructed for weather exposure and may require foundation preparation.

Electrical Planning Overview

Most traditional electric sauna heaters require:

• A dedicated 240V circuit
• Proper amperage based on heater size (commonly 6kW–9kW for residential models)
• Installation by a licensed electrician
  

Electrical specifications vary by manufacturer and heater model. Always follow the installation manual provided with your specific heater.

Indoor installations often involve shorter electrical runs. Outdoor installations may require exterior-rated conduit or trenching depending on location.

Consult a licensed electrician before installation.

Heating Performance & Experience

When properly insulated and correctly sized, both indoor and outdoor traditional saunas can reach typical operating temperatures between 150°F–195°F (65°C–90°C), depending on heater capacity and user preference.

Performance depends on:

• Proper heater sizing relative to cubic footage
• Adequate insulation
• Correct stone loading
• Proper ventilation
  

Outdoor models may require slightly longer preheat times in colder climates due to ambient temperature.

Installation Considerations

Indoor Sauna Models

Often involves:

• Electrical connection
• Assembly within finished space
• Ventilations planning
• Floor protection if required

Outdoor

May require:

• Foundation or deck preparations
• Delivery access planning
• Crane assistance for larger pre-assembled models
• Weather planning during installation
  

Architectural Integration

Indoor saunas can integrate seamlessly into modern wellness rooms with glass fronts and premium wood interiors.

Outdoor saunas create a distinct retreat environment and are often paired with cold plunges or pools.

How Our Luxury Sauna Standards™ Apply to Indoor & Outdoor Models

Every indoor and outdoor sauna we recommend is evaluated using our Luxury Sauna Standards™ framework. While placement and infrastructure differ, our core evaluation criteria remain consistent.

We assess:

• Architectural integrity and design integration
• Material quality and structural construction
• Heater engineering and performance consistency
• Electrical clarity and safety standards
• Manufacturer reliability and long-term support
• Installation transparency and delivery logistics
  

Indoor and outdoor models must meet the same performance, durability, and craftsmanship thresholds before being included in our curated portfolio.

Placement may vary. Standards do not.

Cost Considerations

Total project cost depends on:

• Sauna size
• Heater selection
• Electrical requirements
• Site preparation
• Delivery logistics
  

Outdoor installations may involve additional site preparation costs. Indoor installations may require interior modifications depending on space.

A complete project estimate should include both product cost and installation planning.

Making the Right Decision

An indoor sauna may be ideal if:

• Interior square footage is available
• You prefer architectural integration
• Climate exposure is a concern

An outdoor sauna may be ideal if:

• Backyard space is available
• You prefer a standalone retreat
• You plan to integrate with a pool or plunge
  

Both options can deliver high-performance results when designed properly.