When to Insulate Your Sauna?
Posted on 29 November 2024
Sauna enthusiasts are well aware of the health benefits associated with sauna use; however, your home sauna needs to be in optimal working condition in order to reap maximum benefits. Something that can inhibit sauna performance is a lack of insulation. Now, not every outdoor sauna kit requires insulation, but if you notice a sudden decline in its performance, insulation may be a good investment. Additionally, if you use your sauna greatly in the winter, insulation may also be a good choice in order to maximize heat retention. If you are looking to invest in a home sauna, contact SaunaFin for high-quality cedar saunas. Call now for a quote on your custom home sauna kit or prefab outdoor sauna!
Read on to learn more about sauna insulation and its best uses.
What is Sauna Insulation?
Similarly to home insulation, sauna insulation is applied to improve heat retention and reduce heat loss. Typically, a fibreglass material is used due to its heat resistance. It should be placed around the entire surface area of the sauna, aside from the floor, for best results. Insulation will help speed up the heating process, reduce heat loss and reduce energy bills, especially in the winter months,
Signs Your Sauna Needs Insulation or an Upgrade
Knowing when to insulate or upgrade your sauna from old insulation is fundamental for optimal performance. Several symptoms are indicative of a good time to do so.
Inadequate Heating
One of the most prominent signs that indicate that your sauna needs better insulation is inefficient heating. If your sauna is taking too much time to heat up or is not staying at the required temperature, the heat might be leaking out through walls and ceilings. A sauna should heat up relatively fast, and the temperature inside it should remain consistent during your session. Spending extra time waiting for your sauna to warm up and adjusting temperatures continuously may indicate the need to add or upgrade the insulation of your sauna.
High Energy Bills
Another indication that your sauna needs insulation is a noticeable increase in energy costs. When heat escapes easily, your sauna needs to work harder to maintain the temperature, leading to higher energy consumption. If you’ve recently noticed a spike in your electricity bill or energy consumption, it’s a good idea to install or upgrade the insulation. Installing insulation will help your sauna work more efficiently and help you save on energy costs in the long run.
Condensation or Moisture Issues
It is known that sauna environments are generally humid; however, too much moisture or condensation may indicate the need for some sauna insulation. A lack of quality sauna insulation can cause sudden temperature changes that eventually lead to condensation on the surfaces. The long-term effects of excessive moisture build-up can damage the wood, can cause wood rot and mold growth. To avoid this, ensure you install sauna insulation that is high quality and resistant to moisture.
Best Time to Insulate Your Outdoor Sauna or Sauna Kit
There is no right or wrong time to insulate your sauna; however, there is a strategy to reap the most benefits. If you notice a combination of the signs above, it may be time to insulate your sauna.
Additionally, it is also a good idea to insulate your sauna right before winter begins. In the winter, the temperature is much cooler outside, making it more difficult for your sauna to reach its ideal temperature. Additionally, heat likes to move into cooler zones when they are abundant, making heat loss inevitable in many outdoor saunas in the winter.
Some people also choose to insulate their sauna as soon as they receive it so that they do not have to worry about doing so down the line. There are no drawbacks to doing so, and some people may find installing insulation easier at this point.
Insulate Your SaunaFin Sauna for Better Heat Retention
Overall, investing in insulation is a good decision for anyone who owns an outdoor sauna kit. Over time, your sauna may not heat up as efficiently, and insulation is an easy way to improve heat retention significantly. Not only is this beneficial for those who use their home sauna in the winter, but it is also beneficial for reducing energy costs. If you have been wanting to invest in an outdoor sauna, contact SaunaFin. We offer both prefab and customizable sauna kits to suit your needs.
