Wood-Fired vs Electric Saunas

Wood-Fired vs Electric: Which Is Better?

Choosing between a wood-fired and electric sauna is one of the biggest decisions when
designing your outdoor wellness space. Both offer unique benefits, but to help you with
your choice, here’s our guide on how to decide which is right for you.

Wood-Fired Saunas

In short: Authentic. Aromatic. Off-Grid.
A wood-burning sauna delivers a traditional experience with natural heat and the soothing sound of crackling fire.

Benefits:	Considerations:
- No need for electricity: ideal for remote gardens or for simplicity of installation.	- Takes longer to heat up (typically 30 to 60 minutes).
- Warm, soft heat that feels natural.	- Requires fuel storage and ash cleaning.
- The ritual of lighting the fire enhances relaxation, and brings a sense of accomplishment.	- Temperature control is more hands-on while monitoring the thermometer.
	- Requires qualified installation of the chimney chute.

Best for: Sauna enthusiasts who love authenticity and natural ambience.

Electric Saunas

In Short: Effortless. Efficient. Modern.
Electric heaters make owning a sauna simple and convenient.

Benefits:	Considerations:
- Heats up quickly (15 to 30 minutes).	- Requires a power connection and a qualified electrician to install.
- Thermostat or app control for precise temperatures available as optional extras on a lot of models.	- May slightly increase running costs.
- Minimal maintenance.	- Lacks the rustic charm of real wood smoke.

Best for: Busy homeowners who want reliability and simplicity.

Our Verdict

If you value tradition and atmosphere, go for a wood-fired sauna. If you prefer ease and convenience, an electric sauna is the smarter choice.

Whichever you choose, both deliver the same health benefits , improved circulation, stress relief, and a true spa-like experience in your garden.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a wood-fired or electric sauna cheaper to run?

This depends on how frequently you use the sauna, your electricity tariff, and the cost of firewood. Wood-fired saunas do not require any electricity, so they are a good choice for eco-friendly set-ups and off-grid settings. Electric models, however, can be easy to operate and only require a mains connection, although regular consumption will increase your energy bill.

Which heats up faster: a wood-fired or electric sauna?

Electric heaters require less time to heat up and can be set to a specific temperature, often reaching the specified temperature within 15-30 minutes. Wood-fired saunas take longer to heat up depending on their
starting temperature, the stove, and fuel, typically reaching their temperature within 30-60 minutes. If the main priority is the heat-up time, then electric heaters are recommended; however, wood-fired saunas offer a more traditional feel and lower electricity costs.

Does a wood-fired sauna need a chimney or flue?

Yes, a wood-fired sauna also requires the installation of a chimney or a flue system to safely remove smoke and combustible gases from inside the building. Waltons recommends the chimney chute should be installed by a trained professional to ensure the overall safety of the structure and meet national regulations.

Can I use a wood-fired sauna in a smoke control area?

Before purchasing or installing a wood-fired sauna, you should check the rules that apply to your specific location. Smoke control areas can legally restrict the use of certain combustible materials and appliances, so we recommend checking with your local authority to ensure your sauna is compatible with local regulations.

What electrical supply does an electric sauna heater need?

The electrical requirements depend on the type of sauna heater and its power rating. A typical sauna heater requires a mains connection and routing installed by a professional; however, Waltons always recommends having the outdoor area assessed beforehand to be able to supply a safe installation and appropriate electrical supply.

Which type of sauna heater is easier to maintain?

Electrical saunas are generally easier to maintain as they only require an electric mains connection, as well as having less demand for maintenance and upkeep. An electric sauna does not require fuel storage or ash removal, and you can monitor the temperature with much more ease.

Can I control an electric sauna from my phone?

There are some Wi-Fi controllers that allow you to control the temperature remotely from your phone. A wide variety of newer models also have pre-installed thermostat and timer controls available to use. If remote control is important to you, select the Huum Drop 9kW Electric Sauna Heater (Wi-fi) at checkout.

Which is better: a wood-fired or electric sauna?

Neither option is universally better, and it ultimately depends on your preferences and garden set-up. Wood-fired saunas offer a traditional aesthetic and require next to no power, whilst electric heaters provide fast heating, temperature control, and significantly less maintenance. Waltons recommends choosing the sauna that best suits your needs and complements your outdoor space.