Sauna 101: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Sauna
Advice - Sauna
Thinking about adding a sauna to your home? You’re not alone — more and more people are discovering the incredible benefits saunas offer for relaxation, recovery, and overall wellness. Whether you’re interested in an indoor retreat or an outdoor escape, there’s a lot to consider before making your purchase.
At Pioneer Family Pools, we carry a curated selection of saunas from trusted brands like Tylö, known for their quality craftsmanship and authentic Swedish design. This guide will walk you through the key things to know when shopping for your first sauna.
Set Your Budget
One of the first things to think about is your budget. Home saunas can start around $4,500 and go up depending on the size, type, and added features. On average, most homeowners spend about $5,000–$10,000 on a full setup.
Remember to factor in potential installation costs and long-term operating expenses (like electricity, especially for outdoor or infrared models).
Infrared or Traditional Saunas: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of saunas you’ll come across:
Traditional Saunas (Finnish Style)
- Heated with stones using electricity or wood
- High temperatures (160°F – 200°F)
- Option to add steam by pouring water on hot stones
- Creates a classic, full-body heat experience
Infrared Saunas
- Uses infrared panels to heat the body directly
- Lower overall temperature (around 140°F)
- Easier to tolerate for some users
- Energy-efficient and quicker to heat up
Not sure which is best? Stop by one of our showrooms — our team can walk you through the pros and cons of each option!
Indoor or Outdoor?
Indoor Saunas are great if you have extra space in a basement, bathroom, or spare room. They offer convenience and easy year-round access.
Outdoor Saunas are a fantastic option if you want to create a backyard retreat. They often require more installation planning but deliver a more traditional, rustic sauna experience.
How Many Seats Do You Need?
Saunas come in a range of sizes — from cozy 1-person units to models that fit 4 or more people. Consider how often you’ll use the sauna and whether it’s just for you or something you’ll enjoy with family or friends.
Maintenance & Materials
A few things to keep in mind as you compare options:
- High-Quality Wood: Look for durable materials like Canadian Hemlock or Nordic Spruce
- Ventilation: Proper airflow is key for comfort and safety
- Maintenance: Saunas are relatively low maintenance — regular cleaning and occasional wood treatment will keep them looking and performing great
- Smart Features: Digital controls, lighting, and timers make modern saunas easier to use than ever
Why We Recommend Tylö Saunas!
We’re proud to offer Tylö saunas — a trusted Swedish brand with over 75 years of expertise. They’re known for:
- High-Premium Materials
- Energy-efficient Designs
- Scandinavian Craftsmanship
- A wide range of styles and sizes
Whether you’re building a wellness space indoors or creating a peaceful backyard hideaway, Tylö saunas offer something for every lifestyle.
Ready to Get Started?
Visit your nearest Pioneer Family Pools location to explore our saunas in person or visit our website here. We’ll help you choose the right size, style, and setup — so you can enjoy all the health and relaxation benefits that come with owning a sauna.
Relax. Recharge. Reconnect. Your personal sauna escape is closer than you think!
