Which is Better? An Electric Outdoor Barrel Sauna or Wood-Fired Sauna Stove?

When it comes to creating a personal wellness retreat in your backyard, few things compare to the soothing experience of an outdoor barrel sauna crafted from Canadian red cedar. Once you've decided on your barrel sauna the next big question is electric or wood-fired? Both have their unique advantages and considerations. In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between electric outdoor barrel saunas and wood-fired saunas to help you decide which one is best for you.

Barrel Sauna Heating Times and Efficiency

The time it takes for your Panorama Barrel Sauna to reach the desired maximum temperature depends on various factors, including:

• Location and Season: In colder climates like Lake Wanaka and Queenstown during winter, heating times will be slower than in warmer areas like Northland or the Tasman region. In summer, heating times are quicker.

• Desired Maximum Temperature: Everyone's tolerance for sauna temperatures differs. Some prefer 65-85°C, while others insist on 90°C. Naturally, it takes less time to heat to 75°C than to 90°C.

The Electric Experience: Precision & Convenience

• Effortless: Ideal for a busy lifestyle—simply switch it on and it’s ready when you are.

• Control: Features a delay timer (up to 7 hours), allowing you to set it before a workout or hike so it’s hot the moment you return. It can also be configured for app-based remote control by your electrician.

• Performance: Maintains a consistent temperature up to 90°C. Like the wood-fired model, you still pour water over the stones to create steam and manage humidity.

  
  

The Wood-Fired Experience: Traditional & Atmospheric

• Ambiance: Offers the authentic crackling fire, wood aroma and a beautiful glow through the glass, which is especially stunning in the evenings.

• The Heat: Produces a softer, more humid löyly (steam) when water is added to the stones. The heat tends to envelop you gradually, creating a richer, more traditional sensation.

• The Ritual: While it requires fire-starting and wood storage, many of our clients embrace the 30–45 minute preparation and heating of the sauna (to desired temp) as a grounding ritual that becomes part of the sauna experience itself.

Temperature Control

Electric Saunas

One of the benefits of electric saunas is precise temperature control. Our electric heaters come with built-in thermostats that allow you to set and maintain a specific temperature of up to 90°C. This level of control ensures a consistent and comfortable sauna session every time.

Wood-Fired Saunas

Temperature control in wood-fired saunas is more manual. You regulate the temperature by adjusting the amount of wood added to the fire. However this becomes easy with some practice and it offers a more traditional hands-on experience that many find rewarding. The ambiance and soothing affects of watching a wood fire roar and flicker while enjoying a sauna are also an added bonus.

Installation and Maintenance

Electric Saunas

Electric saunas are easier to install and maintain. They require a power source, which involves electrical work by a qualified electrician. Once set up, they are relatively low maintenance, requiring regular checks on the heater and occasional cleaning to keep them running smoothly.

Wood-Fired Saunas

We recommend that wood-fired stoves be installed by a qualified builder or someone with experience installing wood stoves. The installation is similar to that of a household wood fire. Maintenance involves regular cleaning of the firebox, glass and chimney to prevent creosote buildup. There is a pull out tray to empty the ash before each session. Additionally, you'll need a steady supply of quality firewood to keep your sauna operational.

Electric or Wood-Fired Sauna: Conclusion

Choosing between an electric outdoor barrel sauna and a wood-fired one ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you prioritise convenience, precise temperature control and lower maintenance, an electric sauna might be the best choice for you. However, if you cherish the traditional sauna experience, enjoy the process of building a fire and don't mind the additional maintenance requirements, a wood-fired sauna could be the perfect fit. A wood fire is also the best option for off-grid scenarios.

Whichever option you choose, both electric and wood-fired saunas offer incredible health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, pain relief, detoxification, better sleep and stress reduction. Both options provide a satisfying sauna experience and have been thoroughly tested in all of our saunas. Transform your backyard into a wellness haven and enjoy the timeless ritual of sauna bathing.

For more information and to explore our range of high-quality barrel saunas, browse our collection.

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