Infrared Sauna

An infrared sauna is a method of people who want to have a good health. Infrared sauna uses far infrared that radiate the thermal energy or heat to the human body. , unlike traditional saunas which heat the body indirectly via air or steam. However, Infrared sauna will be danger if a person who absorb the thermal energy in a along time. But Infrared sauna gain more advantage.

Health benefit claims

A study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis showed a reduction in pain, stiffness and fatigue during infrared sauna therapy,

"but these did not reach statistical significance".[1]

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Infrared (IR) light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 0.7 and 300 micrometres, which equates to a frequency range between approximately 1 and 430 THz.
Its wavelength is longer (and the frequency lower) than that of visible light, but the wavelength is shorter (and the frequency higher) than that of terahertz radiation microwaves. Bright sunlight provides an irradiance of just over 1 kilowatt per square meter at sea level. Of this energy, 527 watts is infrared radiation, 445 watts is visible light, and 32 watts is ultraviolet radiation.


Humans at normal body temperature radiate chiefly at wavelengths around 12μm (micrometers), as shown by Wien's displacement law



Photobiomodulation

Near infrared light, or photobiomodulation, is used for treatment of chemotherapy induced oral ulceration as well as wound healing. There is some work relating to anti herpes virus treatment. Research projects include work on central nervous system healing effects via cytochrome c oxidase upregulation and other possible mechanisms.

Brought to you by http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared#Heating. [2]

The infrared divided in three regions: Near Infrared, Mid Infrared and Far Infrared. Applications of each region are different.

Sauna
A sauna is a small room or house designed as a place to experience dry or wet heat sessions, or an establishment with one or more of these and auxiliary facilities.

A sauna session can be a social affair in which the participants disrobe and sit or recline in temperatures of over 80 °C (176 °F). This induces relaxation and promotes sweating.

Saunas can be divided into two basic styles: Conventional saunas that warm the air or infrared saunas that warm objects. Infrared saunas may use various materials in their heating area such as charcoal, active carbon fibers, and other materials.

Brought to you by http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sauna. [3]

Infrared saunas use infrared heater emit the thermal energy to warm the body without raising the ambient temperature and raising the temperature in the shot time than conventional saunas

So, the development of saunas technology is Infrared sauna.[4]

How Do Infrared Saunas Work?

How Do Infrared Saunas Work?

By Adriana N.

In recent years, the popularity of saunas has significantly increased due to its numerous health benefits and its ability to help one relax and reduce stress. Infrared Sauna is one type of sauna that is becoming well known for its positive health impact on the mind and body.

An infrared sauna is different than a conventional sauna as it does not use steam. Instead, it utilizes special heaters that produce and disperse infrared rays. Infrared light is a wavelength of light naturally emitted by the sun. Infrared saunas produce the same infrared energy we get from the sun, but it is not harmful ultraviolet light. Infrared is thermal radiation, meaning that it conducts heat. The electromagnetic energy enters the body and causes it to heat up which results in sweating.

Ceramic heaters are used in modern infrared saunas. The temperature created ranges from 110 to 130 degrees F. It is cooler than a traditional sauna which allows one to sit in the sauna longer thereby perspiring more. The infrared radiation only heats the body, and not the air. The heating effects are produced below the skin and the deep penetration of the infrared rays into the skin allows more contaminates to be removed than if one were to use a conventional steam sauna.

Infrared rays have shown to be beneficial to the body. The harmless rays enter skin and the heat produced will cause fat cells to loosen up resulting in toxins, metals, and other harmful elements being released. As one perspires, toxins, bacteria, and metals, are driven out from the body which makes infrared saunas an effective method of body detoxification. Once one eliminates the harmful substances from their body, they will have more energy, be more alert, and have an overall feeling of good health. They will even sleep much better.

Infrared saunas are also effective at clearing up acne. As well, it helps to reduce cellulite, improves skin elasticity and tone, and even helps to heal such conditions as burns, eczema, scars, and psoriasis. In fact, for those interested in shedding some extra pounds, infrared saunas can burn 400-600 calories in one 30 minute sitting.

Infrared saunas are also an effective therapeutic technique for relieving muscle pain and spasms, as well as speeding up the healing process for injured muscles and tissue. The heat that is produced warms up the body internally which boosts blood circulation and brings oxygen and nutrients to the injured area and removes fluid build up from the area. As well, the deep penetration of the infrared rays is an effective method of treating bone and joint conditions such as osteoarthritis. The healing properties and its stress alleviating effects makes this type of sauna a good choice for those wanting to improve their overall health and well being.

The health benefits for both the mind and body have made saunas a popular choice for the home as well as in wellness spas. Regular use of an infrared sauna will detoxify the body of harmful chemicals, metals, bacteria, and other toxins from the environment, and one will soon achieve healthy weight loss, a strengthened immune system, and most importantly, good health.

Infrared saunas offer many health benefits. It removes the secreted toxins, allowing your body to feel rejuvenated. Considering purchasing sauna heaters, visit us today!

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infrared sauna controversy

Energy expenditure controversy

Some infrared sauna proponents claim that the sauna is an effective method for considerably raising the rate of energy expenditure in the body. Proponents typically quote the Journal of the American Medical Association stating:

"A moderately conditioned person can easily sweat off 500 grams in a sauna, consuming nearly 300 kcal, which is equivalent to running 2–3 miles. A heat-conditioned person can easily sweat off 600–800 kcal with no adverse effects. While the weight of the water loss can be regained by drinking water, the calories consumed will not be.".

This statement is based on the amount of energy absorbed by sweat evaporating from the skin. It is equivalent to the latent heat of vaporizaton of water, which is 539 kcal/kg (2260 kJ/kg). The source of this energy is then confused to be body energy stores, while the source is in fact the excessive heat absorbed from the sauna. The body reacts to the excess heat flux by increasing perspiration. This does not increase body heat generation and calorie burn.[1]

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Related Article:Infrared Saunas Health Issue - Good Or Bad?

Risks and Benefits of saunas

Health risks and benefits

Saunas can also be dangerous due to the risk of heat prostration or the even more serious hyperthermia. Children and older persons who have heart disease or seizure disorders or those who use alcohol or cocaine are especially vulnerable.

Prolonged stay in a sauna may lead to loss of electrolyte from the body, the same as after rigorous exercise. Risks of dehydration leading to heat stroke in more sensitive individuals can occur and may be reduced by regular sipping of water or isotonic drinks, but not alcohol, during the sauna. Sauna bathing and heavy drinking of alcoholic beverages, and also sauna bathing during alcohol withdrawal (hangover) phase can undoubtedly create real health risks.

Many of the sauna therapeutic trials used a regular schedule of at least 5 days a week and often daily for one to three months, then several times a week for extended periods.

In some countries the local gymnasium is usually the closest and most convenient and some pool, major sport, or even resort complexes also contain a sauna. Therapeutic Sauna is often carried out in conjunction with physiotherapy or hydrotherapy, gentle exercises within the capability of the person without exacerbating symptoms.[3]

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Saunas benefits

Benefits

Contraindications to sauna include unstable angina pectoris, recent myocardial infarction, and severe aortic stenosis. Sauna is safe, however, for most people with stable coronary heart disease. It is not harmful to the aged when used in moderation, is safe even for young infants over 3 months if limited to short [less than 3 minutes] sessions , and does not affect wound healing .

Sauna use may reduce the incidence of the common cold, and temporarily relieve the symptoms . It increases performance in endurance sport, increases plasma volume and red cell volume in athletes, decreased systolic blood pressure, significantly improved exercise tolerance, increased peak respiratory oxygen uptake, and enhanced anaerobic threshold in chronic conditions.[3]

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Infrared Saunas Health Issue - Good Or Bad?

Infrared Saunas Health Issue - Good Or Bad?

By Bill Gatton

There are many health benefits to be gained from using a sauna, but infrared sauna health is even more remarkable.

If you've ever spent time in a sauna, you know that it is a great way to feel invigorated. But did you know that the health benefits of sauna use have been proven? Research has shown that these benefits, everything from healthier skin to better blood circulation, are significant.

The major benefits of sauna use include an increased heart rate, increased circulation, and stimulation of the immune system. The increased heart rate yields the same benefits as an invigorating walk. The increased circulation helps nutrients reach their destinations. And the immune stimulus creates a body that is better able to fight disease.

With all of these benefits, it is easy to see why so many people use saunas on a regular basis. But there is even better news for health-conscious sauna users. Infrared saunas, which provide the same health benefits as traditional saunas, provide further benefits including softer, more tolerable heat and can spur even deeper detoxification of the body.

A traditional steam sauna operates by pouring water over a heating element, which heats the room. The heated room then heats the user's body. An infrared sauna uses radiant energy (the same kind of energy produced by the sun) to heat only the user's body, not the room. And the infrared technology does not include potentially harmful UV rays.

The heating element in a traditional sauna operates at a temperature of 150 - 200 degrees Fahrenheit. In an infrared sauna, the temperature is approximately 110 - 140 degrees Fahrenheit. That 40-90 degree difference can make all the difference in your sauna experience. Because the heat in an infrared sauna is lower, and because its radiant energy heats only the user's body, people often say they are able to stay in an infrared sauna longer than a traditional sauna. This is significant because the longer they stay in the sauna, the more health benefits they gain.

The other significant benefit that is only provided by an infrared sauna is deeper detoxification. Infrared energy penetrates deep into the muscle tissue. This penetration forces the cells to react by eliminating waste. Infrared sauna users often say they begin to sweat sooner and sweat more than with traditional saunas. And more sweat means better cleansing.

If you are interested in gaining all of these health benefits, look into an infrared sauna. The difference between traditional and infrared sauna health will impress you.

For more on the infrared sauna health benefits and other related resources to infrared saunas, visit http://www.YourInfraredSauna.com. From benefits to finding sauna dealers near you, its here.

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Hot Sauna, Hot Tips

Hot Sauna, Hot Tips

By Pertti Olavi Jalasjaa

There are many different ways to enjoy a sauna bath, regardless of whether the setting of that sauna bath is in a traditional hot Finnish sauna room or a modern, state-of-the-art far infrared sauna cabin. And, as so many veteran sauna enthusiasts discovered soon after they first began taking sauna baths, it doesn't take long for a novice sauna bather to learn how to ensure that his or her every session in the sauna is a safe, pleasurable experience. Here are just a few tips to help you reap the greatest rewards in your sauna:

1. Sauna bathing is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disorders or pulmonary diseases, and anyone who is pregnant or has multiple sclerosis, hyperthyroidism, hypertension should consult a qualified health professional before using a sauna. If you have any other health concerns, a talk with your doctor may help to put any worries regarding your use of a sauna to rest.

2. Do not use the sauna while under the influence of any type of alcohol, drugs, anticoagulants, antihistamines, vasoconstrictors, vasodilators, stimulants, hypnotics, narcotics or tranquilizers.

3. Avoid eating heavily before you take your sauna bath. If you do eat beforehand, wait at least an hour before beginning your sauna session.

4. Remove all metal objects, such as watches and eyeglasses, and jewelry from your body prior to entering the sauna.

5. Do not wear contact lenses in the sauna.

6. Take a shower before entering the sauna, and be sure to dry your body completely after you wash yourself.

7. Drink some mineralized water before your sauna.

8. Bring at least two towels, one for sitting or lying on and wrapping in and another for drying off afterwards. Don't try to dry a clean body with a towel soaked in sweat.

9. Sauna etiquette and sauna customs can vary greatly from country to country, especially regarding what to wear in the sauna and whether men and women can bathe in the same sauna at the same time. If you are visiting a public sauna, be aware of what the applicable rules, customs and protocols are. If you are bathing alone in your own home sauna, though, feel free to wear whatever will make you most comfortable, be it a swimsuit, a towel, or nothing at all.

10. Allow yourself a reasonable amount of time for your sauna session. The sauna is no place for anyone in a rush. For many sauna enthusiasts, a typical sauna sequence consists of: a warm shower; 15 minutes in the sauna heat; a cool shower and optional dip in a swimming pool, lake or pond, and then a 10 to 30 minute rest. Most sauna fans repeat this sequence, or one similar to it, many times during a morning, afternoon or evening. People with heart problems or high blood pressure, however, are advised to avoid swimming in cold water after their sweat bath.

11. Don't smoke in the sauna. Also, if you are bathing in a sauna with other people, realize that the sauna door should not be kept open so long that it cools the sauna for those sharing it with you. In a traditional Finnish sauna, courtesy also dictates that you be considerate of others when you're tossing water on the sauna rocks.

12. It goes without saying that a sauna bather would be unwise to engage in sexual activity amid the intense heat of the bath. Also, to do it in front of other bathers might be viewed by some as being very rude.

13. Leave the sauna immediately if you feel faint or dizzy. One of the most important principles to follow when you are in the sauna is to listen to the messages your body sends you. A sauna bath should never be considered as a test of your endurance, so respect your body and its limitations.

14. To prevent dehydration, be sure to replenish your fluids after you come out of the sauna. Drinking mineralized water is recommended, although some sauna enthusiasts believe a beer can be quite refreshing. Just don't drink any alcohol while you're in the sauna itself - only afterwards if you wish and, even then, not to excess.

15. Get dressed only after your body temperature has returned to normal and you have stopped sweating.

Follow these basic guidelines for a safe, satisfying and soothing soak in the sauna, and you'll be a veteran sauna enthusiast before you know it.

Pertti Olavi Jalasjaa is the Finnish-born author of “The Art of Sauna Building,” an acclaimed reference book on sauna construction. He is also the general manager of Great Saunas, which has been manufacturing and selling high-quality saunas and sauna kits to sauna enthusiasts around the world since 1974. Visit Great Saunas online at http://www.greatsaunas.com.

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Different Types of Infrared Saunas

By Roberto Mckinney

Homeowners are now becoming smarter when it comes to maximizing all the areas around the house and utilizing each one to the full extent. A small spot in the backyard could remain to be empty or for those with a creative mind, this could be a place where a small piece of equipment can be placed that could bring relaxation and comfort right at home. This is the reason why saunas are normally found in houses with a limited amount of space, yet each corner is being used to add beauty and value to the whole house.

For those who are not familiar with this, it is a small heated room with high temperatures designed to induce sweating while at the same time allowing the person to relax. Its been known primarily because of its recreational purpose such as providing fun and a great form to relieve stress but at the same time more users are also claiming about its therapeutic benefits. There are different types that are available in today's market depending on the type of material and its function. The traditional models that originated from Finland normally include a stove, pile of rocks and a few benches. Water is being thrown at the rocks and with a high temperature that can be around 175-195 degrees Fahrenheit. It causes water to evaporate and form a steam. There are some models that require lower temperature which can be from 110 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Tracing back to history, the Caldarium is also a type of sauna which is considered as the hottest among the Roman Baths. It makes use of an under floor heating system in order to generate heat.

In today's modern world, infrared saunas are considered to be the latest model that make use of infrared technology. This is fast becoming a popular choice among homeowners because of its advantages and health benefits.

Written by Roberto Mckinney. Find the latest info on saunas as well as infrared saunas.

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Advantageous of sauna

Sauna plus multidisciplinary treatment may reduce chronic pain more effectively than multidisciplinary treatment alone. Sauna reduces chronic pain more effectively than cognitive behaviour therapy. It is indicated for rheumatic pain (with cold shower) but not for neuropathic pain. Is effective for appetite loss and mild depression. Indicated in reducing symptoms in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis, and indicated for anorexia nervosa. Sauna improves function in conditions such as, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure, improves vasodilation, improves heart arrhythmia, and reduces heart rate on exercise. Sauna has been proposed for treatment of other conditions such as, glaucoma, Sjogren syndrome,chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, anorexia nervosa, obstructive lung disease, recuperation after childbirth, and also for lifestyle related diseases of, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis and smoking induced symptoms.[3]

Other benefits of saunas:

It has shown that regular saunas combined with exercise therapy can efficiently clear organic chemicals, solvents, drugs, pharmaceuticals even PCBs] and heavy metals from the body.

In addition a sauna followed by a cold shower has been shown to reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis where pain is mediated by sensitised c-fibre sympathetics. Regular saunas have also been found to improve micro circulation reduce vasoconstriction and hypertension. Many symptoms of chronic illnesses may be due to vasoconstriction effects e.g. cold sensitivity, pain even mood states, and sauna improves microcirculation and blood supply to constricted areas.

Far Infrared Energy and Far Infrared Saunas - 40 Fascinating Facts

By Pertti Olavi Jalasjaa

Although more and more people are learning firsthand about the fabulous benefits of owning a far infrared sauna or heat therapy room, many others still possess very little knowledge of this important subject. The following information has been compiled to help spread the good news with the hope of placing more people on the path to greater health, relaxation and happiness.

1. Infrared light lies between the visible and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared light has a range of wavelengths, just like visible light has wavelengths that range from red light to violet. Near infrared light is closest in wavelength to visible light, and far infrared light is closer to the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Far infrared waves are thermal, meaning they are felt as heat.

2. In the electromagnetic spectrum, far infrared wavelengths measure between 5.6 and 1,000 microns. One micron equals one micrometer or one millionth of a meter. Wavelengths of between 6 and 14 microns are believed to be the most beneficial to humans and other living things on Earth. The human palm emits far infrared wavelengths of between 8 and 12 microns. The energy output from far infrared saunas so closely match the human body's radiant energy that nearly 93 percent of the sauna's far infrared waves reach the skin.

3. Certain alternative healing practices such as palm healing, a practice with some 3,000 years of tradition behind it in China, rely on the human body's ability to emit far infrared radiant energy.

4. Far infrared radiant heat is a form of naturally occurring energy that heats objects by direct light conversion. Direct light conversion warms only the object and does not raise the temperature of the surrounding free air.

5. A good example of far infrared heat is the light produced by the sun. This is the heat you feel penetrate your skin when you stand in the sun and miss when you walk into the shade. It has nothing to do with ultraviolet light, which can damage your skin. When people do not receive adequate amounts of far infrared heat, they often can become ill or depressed.

6. Far infrared radiant heat provides all the healthy benefits of natural sunlight without any of the dangerous effects of solar radiation.

7. The radiant heat of a far infrared sauna is efficient because it warms the sauna bather directly. The body absorbs as much as 93 percent of the heat, causing perspiration and producing a vast array of health benefits.

8. A far infrared sauna will deliver hyperthermic benefits in a much shorter time period (i.e.10 minutes) than a conventional sauna (30 to 45 minutes).

9. Unlike in traditional saunas where temperatures range from 140 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 105 degrees Celsius), the temperatures of far infrared saunas typically range from 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (38 to 65 degrees Celsius).

10. The temperature inside a far infrared sauna is adjustable and comfortable. This allows a person to perspire faster and to tolerate a longer period of time inside the sauna. Typical sessions in a far infrared sauna last 30 to 45 minutes and can be repeated to maximize the benefits.

11. A far infrared sauna is usually warm within 10 or 20 minutes, whereas a conventional sauna can take more than an hour to reach optimal temperatures.

12. The lower heat range of far infrared saunas is safer for people with cardiovascular risk factors or fragile health because lower temperatures don't dramatically elevate heart rate and blood pressure.

13. Far infrared saunas benefit all your organs of elimination, from your lungs to your liver to your kidneys to your skin.

14. Far infrared rays improve blood circulation, stimulate endorphins, lower lactic acid, kill certain bacteria and parasites, and burn calories. Proponents of hyperthermia, also known as fever therapy, maintain that using far infrared energy to therapeutically induce higher body temperatures helps fight infections and even cancer. Their argument is supported by the human body itself, which radiates infrared energy for the benefits of warmth and tissue repair.

15. Studies indicate that benefits of far infrared sauna use include: muscle relaxation; stress, tension and headache relief; reduction and removal of body toxins; increased cardiovascular strength; increased blood circulation; strengthened immune system; improved lung function, and refreshed, moisturized skin.

16. Far infrared sauna therapy has helped people with cardiovascular conditions such as congestive heart failure and angina. It enhances endothelial nitric oxide, lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular function.

17. Using a far infrared sauna can help strengthen the body's immune system by stimulating increased production of white blood cells by the bone marrow and killer T-cells by the thymus.

18. Bathing in a far infrared sauna in the early stages of a cold or flu has been known to stop the disease before symptoms occur.

19. Far infrared sauna use can help promote rebuilding of injured tissue by having a positive effect on the fibroblasts, the connective tissue cells necessary for the repair of injury. It also can help increase growth of cells, DNA syntheses, and protein synthesis, all of which is necessary during tissue repair and regeneration.

20. The radiant heat of far infrared saunas has been shown to be especially beneficial to people with sports injuries, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and other chronic pain conditions.

21. Far infrared saunas have been used to treat sprains, bursitis, rheumatism, muscle spasms, neuralgia and hemorrhoids. They have also been shown to relieve acne, eczema, psoriasis and burns.

22. Far infrared saunas are now used in health facilities for a range of health problems such as menopause, ulcers, insomnia, asthma, bronchitis, ear infections, and allergies.

23. Far infrared radiation is believed to be the only antidote to excessive ultraviolet radiation.

24. When far infrared heat penetrates a bather's body, he or she can experience a refreshed mind, relaxed mood, reduction of aches and pains, improved metabolism, and systemic regularity leading to an overall feeling of wellness.

25. Far infrared saunas are recognized by health practitioners worldwide as perhaps the most effective method of removing both chemical and heavy metal toxins from the body. Far infrared saunas are thought to be 7 times more effective at detoxifying heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, and other environmental toxins than conventional heat or steam saunas. For many chronically ill patients as well as people who are well and wish to stay that way by reducing their toxic burden, the far infrared sauna is the detox method of choice.

26. The effects of toxin, chemical and pesticide poisoning can be greatly reduced by the far infrared sauna's detoxification action. People who work with chemicals, as well as home gardeners who frequently use fertilizers and pesticides, are advised to use far infrared saunas on a regular basis.

27. Far infrared heat can penetrate into the skin about an inch and a half to two inches deep and can have therapeutic benefits, such as helping to dissolve fat deposits under the skin. Since toxins may be stored in the fat, the deep penetrating heat of a far infrared sauna can help eliminate them, especially toxins such as heavy metals and acidic compounds.

28. Far infrared saunas can help clear cellulite, the gel-like lumps of fat, water and debris trapped in pockets beneath the skin. European beauty specialists routinely incorporate daily far infrared sauna baths in programs to reduce cellulite.

29. Far infrared sauna use can be of significant benefit to people trying to lose weight. A 20 to 30-minute session in a far infrared sauna has been touted to burn as many calories as a six-mile run.

30. Far infrared saunas offer the same benefits as traditional dry saunas, if not more. Plus, far infrared saunas don't rely on any type of water. You don't have to worry about setting the sauna up on a waterproof floor or near plumbing, and you don't have to worry about mildew.

31. Far infrared saunas are more cleansing than conventional saunas because they are designed to generate more than two to three times the amount of perspiration. A higher volume of sweat means a more thorough flushing of toxins from the body.

32. In a study performed by U.S. researchers, the sweat of people using a conventional sauna was found to be 95 to 97 percent water, while the sweat of those using a far infrared sauna was 80 to 85 percent water with the non-water portion principally cholesterol, fat-soluble toxins, toxic heavy metals, sulfuric acid, sodium, ammonia, and uric acid.

33. Unlike a traditional sauna, which requires a closed atmosphere to maintain heat levels required for therapeutic results, a far infrared sauna can be used with its door or window completely open if far infrared penetration is the only objective.

34. There are some definite advantages to using far infrared sauna thermal heaters, such as no high heat claustrophobic reaction and better air circulation. Far infrared heaters heat the body, not the air, so a bather is more comfortable and cooler. Far infrared saunas require 90 percent less electrical energy than conventional saunas, and no plumbing is required for a far infrared sauna.

35. Generally speaking, far infrared saunas are less expensive, easier to install, and require less maintenance than traditional saunas. They come in many sizes and are often quite portable, making them a great choice when limited space is available.

36. Most far infrared saunas use ceramic elements to generate gentle heat. Another option, although quite costly, is to use far infrared bulbs, which can provide warming and stimulating color therapy.

37. NASA has utilized far infrared therapy to help maintain fitness levels of astronauts in weightless environments.

38. Hemlock is a softwood ideally suited for use in far infrared saunas. Hemlock is a very strong wood that is quite able to withstand the heat of a far infrared sauna. It is also abundantly available, which means the end cost to the consumer is less than it might be for another wood type.

39. In addition to hemlock, wood choices for far infrared sauna construction include basswood, birch, oak, poplar, spruce and western red cedar. When a wood type is stated to be hypoallergenic, it means that the wood contains minimal allergens and is therefore less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Typical wood allergies, however, are caused by sawdust.

40. Respected retailers of far infrared saunas or heat therapy rooms include Amerec Sauna & Steam, EZe Products, Finnleo Sauna and Steam, Great Saunas, Helo Sauna and Steam, SaunaGen, and Seamax Enterprises Inc.

Pertti Olavi Jalasjaa is the Finnish-born author of “The Art of Sauna Building,” an acclaimed reference book on sauna construction. He is also the general manager of Great Saunas, which has been manufacturing and selling high-quality saunas and sauna kits to sauna enthusiasts around the world since 1974.

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Infrared heater

An infrared heater is a body with a higher temperature which transfers energy to a body with a lower temperature through electromagnetic radiation. Depending on the temperature of the emitting body, the wavelength of the infrared radiation ranges from 780 nm to 1 mm. The relationship between temperature and wavelength is expressed by the Wien's displacement law. No contact or medium between the two bodies is needed for the energy transfer. A rough classification of infrared heaters is connected to wavelength bands of major emission of the energy: short wave or near infrared for the range from 780 nm to 1400 nm, these emitters are also named bright because still some visible light with glare is emitted; medium infrared for the range between 1400 nm and 3000 nm; far infrared or dark emitters for everything above 3000 nm.


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Elements of infrared heaters

For practical purposes, most infrared heaters are constructed by either using the emission of a flame (usually soot or a heated matrix) or an electrically heated filament as the emitting body. If an electrically operated infrared heater (infrared lamp) is used, the filament is usually protected by a heat-resistant quartz glass tube. Depending on the filament temperature, a filling of the quartz tube with inert gas (e.g., halogen) may be required to prevent filament degradation. These emitters use the same materials and principle as a light bulb.

The most common filament material used for electrical infrared heaters is tungsten wire, which is coiled to provide more surface area. Low temperature alternatives for tungsten are carbon , or alloys of iron, chromium and aluminum (brand name ‘kanthal’). While carbon filaments are more fickle to produce, they heat up much quicker than a comparable medium-wave heater based on a FeCrAl filament.

Industrial infrared heaters sometimes use a gold coating on the quartz tube that reflects the infrared radiation and directs it towards the product to be heated. Consequently the infrared radiation impinging on the product is virtually doubled. Gold is used because of its oxidation resistance and very high IR reflectivity of approximately 95 %

Types of infrared heaters

Infrared heaters are commonly used in infrared modules (or emitter banks) combining several heaters to achieve larger heated areas.

Infrared heaters are usually classified by the wavelength they emit. Near infrared (NIR) or short-wave infrared heaters operate at high filament temperatures above 1800 °C and when arranged in a field reach high power densities of some 100s of kW/m². Their peak wavelength is well below the absorption spectrum for water, making them unsuitable for many drying applications. They are well suited for heating of silica where a deep penetration is needed.

Medium-wave and carbon (CIR) infrared heaters operate at filament temperatures of around 1000 °C. They reach maximum power densities of up to 60 kW/m² (medium-wave) and 150 kW/m² (CIR).

Far infrared heaters are typically used in low-temperature infrared saunas.

Heat lamps
A heat lamp is an incandescent light bulb that is used for the principal purpose of creating heat. The spectrum of black body radiation emitted by the lamp is shifted to produce more infrared light. Many heat lamps include a red filter to minimize the amount of visible light emitted.

Heat lamps are commonly used in shower and bathrooms to warm bathers and in food-preparation areas of restaurants to keep food warm before serving. They are also commonly used for animal husbandry. Lights used for poultry are often called brooding lamps. Aside from young birds, other types of animals which can benefit from heat lamps include reptiles, amphibians, insects, arachnids, and the young of some mammals.

The sockets used for heat lamps are usually ceramic because plastic sockets can melt or burn when exposed to the large amount of waste heat produced by the lamps, especially when operated in the "base up" position. The shroud or hood of the lamp is generally metal. There may be a wire guard over the front of the shroud, to prevent touching the hot surface of the bulb.

Ordinary household white incandescent bulbs can also be used as heat lamps, but red and blue bulbs are sold for use in brood lamps and reptile lamps. 250 watt heat lamps are commonly packaged in the "R40" (5" reflector lamp) form factor with an intermediate screw base.

Heat lamps can be used as a medical treatment to provide dry heat when other treatments are ineffective or impractical.

Tubular infrared lamps in quartz bulbs produce useful infrared radiation in wavelengths shorter than 5 microns. The enclosed filament operates at around 2500 K, producing more shorter-wavelength radiation than open wire-coil sources. Developed in the 1950s at General Electric, these lamps produce about 100 watts/inch (4 w/mm) and can be combined to radiate 500 watts per square foot (54000 watts/square m). To achieve even higher power densities, halogen lamps were used. Quartz infrared lamps are used in highly-polished reflectors to direct radiation in a uniform and concentrated pattern. Lamps are used in food processing, chemical processing, paint drying, and thawing of frozen materials. Quartz heat lamps can also be used for comfort heating in cold areas, in incubators, and in other applications for heating, drying, and baking. During development of space re-entry vehicles, banks of quartz infrared lamps were used to test heat shield materials at power densities as high as 28 kW/ square foot (300 kw/square meter)

Gas-fired infrared heaters

There are two basic types of infrared radiant heaters.


Luminous of High Intensity
Radiant Tube Heaters
Radiant tube gas-fired heaters used for industrial and commercial building space heating use combustion of a fuel gas such as natural gas or propane to heat a steel or ceramic tube. Radiant energy from the tube strikes floors and other objects in the area, warming them. The advantage of this form of heating is maintained warmth even when a large volume of cold air is suddenly introduced, such as in maintenance garages for vehicles. The infrared heating elements also conduct heat to the surrounding air, which can be lost heat if no mechanism exists for redirecting warmed air down to the floor level.

Gas-fired radiant heaters are sometimes used outdoors to improve the comfort of people at outdoor events or on patios.

Efficiency of infrared heaters

Electrically-heated infrared heaters radiate up to 86% of their input as radiant energy. Nearly all the electrical energy input is converted into heat in the filament. The filament then emits its heat by infrared radiation that is directly or via a reflector impinging on the product to be heated. Some energy is lost due to conduction or convection.

For practical applications, the efficiency of the infrared heater depends on matching the emitted wavelength and the absorption spectrum of the material to be heated.

For example, the absorption spectrum for water has its peak at around 3000 nm. This means that emission from medium-wave or carbon infrared heaters are much better absorbed by water and water-based coatings than NIR or short-wave infrared radiation.

The same is true for many plastics like PVC or polyethylene. Their peak absorption is around 3500 nm. On the other hand, some metals absorb only in the short-wave range and show a strong reflectivity in the medium and far infrared. This makes a careful selection of the right infrared heater type important for energy efficiency in the heating process.

Ceramic elements operate in the temperature of 300°C to 700°C (572°F - 1292°F) producing infrared wavelengths in the 2 - 10 micron range. Most plastics and many other materials absorb infrared best in this range, which makes the ceramic heater the most efficient infrared radiant emitter on the market.

Applications of infrared heaters

IR heaters are used in industrial manufacturing processes including curing of coatings, shrink tunnels, heating of plastic prior to forming, plastic welding; processing glass;,and cooking and browning food. They are used when high temperatures are required, fast responses or temperature gradients are needed or products need to be heated in certain areas in a targeted way. Their application is difficult for objects with undercuts.

They are also used to provide warmth to suckling animals whose mother cannot or will not provide them with natural warmth as well as to captive animals in zoos or veterinary clinics, especially for lizards and other reptiles, and tropical animals such as birds.

Another recent use is in house heating , various companies sell infrared heaters for house use, claiming some medical benefits due to better circulation also infrared saunas claim same benefits.