top of page

Discover the Benefits of Your Own Sauna Installation Today

  • homeandbusinessele
  • Dec 3, 2025
  • 11 min read
An infrared sauna installation at a client's home.

Imagine stepping into a warm, tranquil space to unwind after a long day without ever leaving your house. Installing a home sauna makes this dream a reality. Beyond simple relaxation, a personal sauna offers numerous health benefits, from soothing sore muscles to improving circulation. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about sauna installation, from selecting the right type to finding the perfect spot, so you can start enjoying your own rejuvenating sauna session.


Why a Sauna is the Perfect Addition to Your Home in Waukesha, WI


For homeowners in Waukesha, a home sauna is a great addition that transforms any part of your house into a personal wellness space. It offers a cozy escape during chilly Wisconsin winters and provides a consistent way to focus on your well-being year-round. The numerous health benefits make it a valuable investment in your lifestyle.


When planning your sauna, a primary consideration is where to put it. You'll need a location with a solid, level floor and access to electricity. Considering accessibility and how you plan to use your sauna will help you pick the perfect spot.


Health and Wellness Benefits of Having Your Own Sauna


Having your own sauna means you can enjoy incredible health benefits on your schedule. Regular sauna use is associated with improved circulation, reduced stress, and muscle relaxation. The heat from a hot sauna helps your body release tension and flush out toxins through sweat.


Many people enjoy the "Nordic cycle," which involves relaxing in the heat and then taking a quick cold shower. This process can invigorate your senses and boost your energy levels. With a sauna at home, you can easily make this a part of your routine. Some key advantages of a regular sauna session include:

  • Reduced muscle soreness and joint pain

  • Improved skin health and complexion

  • Better sleep quality

  • Lowered stress levels


During installation, there are definite dos and don'ts to follow. Always ensure a certified professional, like Home and Business Electric, performs the electrical work to guarantee safety and proper function.


Boosting Property Value and Appeal with Sauna Installation


The installation process for pre-built models is often simpler than people think, making it a manageable upgrade with a significant return on appeal.


The essential steps for an indoor installation include selecting a location, preparing the site with a solid, level floor, assembling the sauna kit according to instructions, and having Home and Business Electric handle all electrical connections. Careful planning ensures a smooth process and a fantastic final result.


Related: If you're looking to set the tone and light up your home, consider LED wafer lights for your living room or kitchen.


Types of Home Saunas to Consider


inside view of an infrared sauna.

When choosing a home sauna, you'll find various styles to fit your needs and space. The main types of saunas are traditional and infrared, each offering a unique experience. Beyond the heating method, saunas also come in various shapes and sizes, such as a classic barrel sauna for the outdoors or a pre-built kit for an indoor room.


Understanding these differences is key to making the right choice. For example, a barrel sauna and a pre-built indoor sauna have very different installation requirements and aesthetics. Let's take a closer at what makes each type unique.


Traditional vs Infrared Saunas: Features and Functionality


Your sauna experience will largely depend on the heat method used. A traditional sauna uses an electric or wood-burning sauna heater to warm rocks. You can pour water over these rocks to create steam, which raises the humidity and intensifies the heat. This creates a classic steam sauna environment with extremely high temperatures.


In contrast, infrared saunas use special heating elements to warm your body directly, rather than the air around you. This allows them to operate at a lower, more gentle temperature while still providing a deep, detoxifying sweat. Many people find infrared saunas more comfortable for longer sessions.

Feature

Traditional Sauna

Infrared Sauna

Heat Source

An electric or wood heater warms rocks

Carbon or ceramic infrared heaters

Temperature

High (150-195°F)

Lower (120-150°F)

Experience

Hot, steamy air heats the room

Gentle infrared waves heat the body directly

Humidity

Can be high (steam) or dry

Low humidity

Barrel Saunas vs Pre-Built Models: Which Suits Your Space?


The structure of your sauna is another important decision. An Almost Heaven barrel sauna is a popular choice for outdoor spaces. Its unique circular design helps it heat efficiently and withstand the elements, and its rustic look blends beautifully with backyards and gardens. They require a solid, level outdoor base.


On the other hand, pre-built sauna kits are designed for indoor installation. These models come in panels that are easy to assemble inside a spare room or basement. If you have ample space indoors, a pre-built sauna might be the perfect fit, offering convenience and easy access.


The installation process for each differs significantly. Barrel saunas are assembled piece by piece outdoors, while pre-built saunas are pieced together indoors like furniture. Both are designed for straightforward assembly, but a professional electrician like Home and Business Electric should always handle the electrical hook-up.


Discover: Home and Business Electric can help you install many common household items, like appliances, ceiling fans, EV charging stations, and whole-home surge protectors. Learn more on our blog and call US for quality.


Choosing the Ideal Location for Your Sauna


Finding the best location for your sauna is a critical step. Your decision between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna will depend on your space, budget, and personal preferences. An indoor setup offers ultimate convenience, while an outdoor sauna provides a unique, nature-infused experience.


There are many ideal locations in a home, from a basement to a spare bathroom. When choosing, consider what would make the sauna room most accessible and enjoyable for you. Exploring the pros and cons of different placements can help you make the best choice.


Indoor vs Outdoor Sauna Placement: What Works Best?


An indoor sauna offers unparalleled convenience and easy access. Placing it near a bedroom or in a bathroom simplifies your pre- and post-sauna routine. A basement sauna installation is another great option, making productive use of the basement by turning it into a private wellness retreat away from the main household activity.


An outdoor sauna, on the other hand, creates a special destination in your backyard. You can enjoy natural light and fresh air, though you'll need a model built to withstand the cold ambient temperature of Wisconsin winters. The choice really comes down to how you envision using your sauna.


Indoor Sauna Benefits:

  • Maximum convenience and privacy

  • Protected from the weather

  • Can be placed in a basement, bathroom, or spare room


Outdoor Sauna Benefits:

  • Creates a unique backyard feature

  • Allows for stargazing or enjoying nature

  • Often larger with more design options


Practical Factors to Keep in Mind for Installation


Once you have a general idea of where to place your sauna, it's time to get practical. The chosen area must have a completely flat, solid base. Concrete, tile, or vinyl flooring works well, but it is best not to install a sauna on carpet due to the high humidity and heat.


You also need to measure carefully to ensure there is ample space not just for the sauna itself, but also for its door to swing open. Pay attention to the required ceiling height, as most saunas need at least a few inches of clearance. Good ventilation is another key factor in managing moisture.


Finally, consider the electrical components. Your sauna's heater may require a dedicated circuit, so the location needs to provide easy access for an electrician, like Home and Business Electric, to run the wiring safely and correctly. Planning for these details ahead of time will prevent headaches later.


The Sauna Installation Process Explained


An outdoor barrel sauna installed by Home and Business Electric.

The sauna installation process can be surprisingly simple, especially with modern kits. Brands like Almost Heaven design their saunas for straightforward assembly that can often be completed in just a few hours by two people. The kit arrives with pre-built panels and all the necessary hardware.


The basic installation steps involve preparing your site, assembling the structure, and installing the benches and heater. While the physical assembly is manageable for many homeowners, the final and most crucial step—the electrical hookup—requires professional expertise.


Steps to Prepare Your Site for Installation


Before your sauna arrives, prepare the site to ensure a successful installation. Whether indoors or out, this preparation is key to the longevity and safety of your unit. The first step for any sauna installation is to create a perfectly level and solid base.


For an outdoor sauna, this may involve pouring a concrete slab or building a sturdy deck foundation. Indoors, ensure the floor is made of a suitable material such as concrete, tile, or vinyl. You must measure the area to confirm there is ample space for the sauna's footprint and for safe clearance around it, as it will generate high temperatures.


To prepare your site effectively:

  • Clear the area of all obstructions.

  • Construct or confirm you have a solid, level base.

  • Measure the height, width, and depth to ensure a perfect fit.

  • Identify the path for running electrical wiring.

  • Plan for proper ventilation to manage moisture.


Tools, Materials, and Safety Considerations


For a standard pre-built sauna installation, most of the necessary materials will be included in your kit. You'll typically need some basic tools to complete the assembly, but the manufacturer provides all the specific panels, benches, and hardware.


The one area where specialized materials and expertise are non-negotiable is the electrical work. The sauna heater is a powerful appliance that may require its own dedicated circuit. This involves specific wiring, breakers, and connections that must comply with local electrical codes to ensure safety. Be sure to call Home and Business Electric to double check what is needed.


For a safe installation process, you'll need:

  • Basic Assembly Tools: A drill, level, rubber mallet, and measuring tape are usually sufficient for the structure.

  • Professional Electrical Tools: An electrician uses specialized tools to handle the wiring.

  • Safety Gear: Always wear gloves and safety glasses.

  • The Sauna Kit: Contains all pre-cut wood and assembly hardware.

  • Electrical Components: Your electrician will supply the proper wiring and breaker for the sauna heater.


Why Partner with Home and Business Electric for Sauna Installation


While assembling an Almost Heaven sauna kit can be a fun DIY project, the electrical installation is best left to experts. At Home and Business Electric, our local electricians in Waukesha provide the certified expertise needed to connect your sauna safely and efficiently, giving you complete peace of mind.


We take pride in providing excellent customer service and a seamless installation process. By partnering with us, you ensure your new oasis is not only beautiful but also perfectly compliant with all safety standards. Let us handle the technical details so you can focus on relaxing.


Certified Expertise from Local Electricians in Waukesha


When it comes to your home's electrical system, there’s no substitute for certified expertise. The local electricians at Home and Business Electric are deeply familiar with the building codes and requirements here in Waukesha. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring your sauna installation is fully compliant and safe.


Hiring a professional is the best way to protect your investment and your home. While you can assemble the sauna structure yourself, a DIY electrical job can lead to serious risks, including fire hazards or damage to your new sauna. Our team guarantees a high-quality installation from start to finish.


We handle everything from running the dedicated circuit to connecting the heater and controls, ensuring every component functions perfectly. Trusting Home and Business Electric means your sauna will be ready for you to enjoy safely for years to come.


Ensuring Electrical Compliance and Quality Work


The most important "do" of any sauna installation is to hire a licensed electrician for the wiring. The electrical components of a sauna, particularly the electric heater, draw a significant amount of power. They may require a dedicated 240-volt circuit, which must be installed correctly to prevent overloading your home's electrical system.


Ensuring electrical compliance is not just about following rules; it's about safety. An improper installation can create a serious fire risk or cause the heater to malfunction. The team at Home and Business Electric ensures every connection is secure, every wire is the correct gauge, and your entire setup meets the highest safety standards.


We manage all aspects of the electrical installation process, giving you confidence that your sauna will operate reliably and safely. Don't risk your safety or your investment—let our professionals provide the quality work your home deserves.


Common Mistakes to Avoid During Sauna Installation


Even with a seemingly straightforward installation process, common mistakes can compromise the performance and safety of your sauna. Many of these issues arise from a lack of careful planning or trying to cut corners on important steps, particularly those related to the foundation and electrical work.


Understanding the dos and don'ts ahead of time can help you avoid these pitfalls. From choosing the wrong location to neglecting proper ventilation, these errors can be costly and frustrating. Let's look at how to ensure your installation is a success.


Dos and Don'ts for Success


Following a few key dos and don'ts will make your sauna installation process smooth and successful. At the top of the list is a focus on safety, especially concerning the electrical elements and high temperatures your sauna will generate.


Proper preparation and professional help are the cornerstones of a great installation. Rushing through the setup or ignoring manufacturer guidelines can lead to problems down the road. Taking your time and doing things right ensures a fantastic result.


Here are some essential tips:

  • DO build your sauna on a solid, perfectly level surface.

  • DON'T attempt to wire the sauna heater yourself; always hire a licensed electrician from Home and Business Electric.

  • DO ensure there is adequate ventilation to manage moisture and maintain air quality.

  • DON'T place the sauna on carpet or any other unsuitable flooring material.


Importance of Proper Ventilation


Proper ventilation is one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of a sauna. In a hot sauna, air needs to circulate to ensure even heating and a comfortable breathing environment. Without it, the air can become stale and stuffy, diminishing the relaxing experience.


Ventilation also plays a crucial role in managing the high humidity that can build up in the sauna room, especially in traditional models. Good airflow helps prevent moisture from getting trapped, which protects the wood from potential mold, mildew, and decay over time. This extends the life of your sauna and keeps the air quality fresh and clean.


To ensure proper ventilation, most saunas are designed with built-in vents near the floor and ceiling. Make sure these are not blocked and are used as directed in the manual. An intake vent brings in fresh air, while an exhaust vent releases old air, creating a healthy cycle.


FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)


Curious about sauna installation? You're not alone! Many wonder about the best location for their own sauna, whether it's an indoor sauna in their bathroom or an outdoor sauna. The installation process can vary, especially with electrical components. Home and Business Electric in Waukesha, WI, makes it easier with their expertise. Customers often ask about the average cost, labor costs, and maintenance tips for traditional and infrared saunas. Feel free to reach out to get all your questions answered!


Can I install a sauna myself, or should I hire a professional?


While the assembly part of a sauna installation is often a manageable DIY project, the electrical work should always be left to a professional. A licensed electrician like Home and Business Electric will ensure the wiring is safe, compliant with local codes, and correctly connected, guaranteeing your sauna operates properly and without risk.


Are there any instructional guides available for installing a sauna?


Yes, reputable manufacturers provide detailed instructional guides and videos for the assembly portion of the sauna installation. These resources guide you through the installation process step-by-step, making it easy to put the structure together before an electrician handles the final wiring.


Sauna Installation Summary


In conclusion, a sauna installation in your home not only enhances your wellness routine but also boosts your property’s value. With various types of saunas to choose from and the right placement, you can create a serene retreat right in your space. It's essential to partner with a reliable local electrician, such as Home and Business Electric, to ensure a safe and compliant installation process. Their certified expertise will guide you through the entire journey, from preparation to completion, while helping you avoid common pitfalls along the way. Embrace the warmth and tranquility that a sauna brings, and start enjoying its benefits today!

Comments


bottom of page