Which Is Better For You, An Infrared Sauna Or A Steam Room?
The main difference between an infrared sauna and a steam room is how they heat your body. An infrared sauna heats your body directly, from the inside out, using light...
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ResetWhat Is a Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna?
Full spectrum infrared saunas use a combination of near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths to deliver heat therapy that works differently from a traditional steam sauna. Rather than heating the surrounding air to extreme temperatures, infrared heaters emit radiant energy that warms the body directly, penetrating soft tissue more deeply than surface-level heat alone.
How Full Spectrum Differs from Standard Infrared
Standard infrared saunas typically rely on carbon panel heaters that emit far infrared wavelengths only. Full spectrum models add near and mid infrared to the mix, which allows each session to address a broader range of therapeutic goals. Near infrared supports surface tissue and skin, mid infrared reaches muscles and joints, and far infrared penetrates deepest to support circulation and core warming.
The Finnmark FD series goes further than most full spectrum designs. Finnmark Designs is the only infrared sauna manufacturer to combine long-wave Spectrum Carbon 360 panels with UL Listed short-wave Spectrum Plus incoloy heaters. This pairing delivers temperatures up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit in under an hour on a standard home outlet. Compared to carbon panel heaters alone, the Spectrum Plus heaters are designed to penetrate up to 25 times more deeply, producing a more thorough sweat at lower ambient temperatures.
The Finnmark FD Series: Three Models, One Standard of Build Quality
Each sauna in the FD range shares the same core construction and heating system. What differs is the footprint and capacity, making it straightforward to choose based on available space and how many people will be using the sauna regularly.
FD-1: Solo Wellness at Home
The FD-1 is a 1-person unit with interior dimensions of 32 inches wide by 34 inches deep by 70 inches tall. It runs on a standard 120v 15-amp outlet, meaning no dedicated electrical work is required for most home installations. At 301 pounds and with a maximum temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit, it is compact but fully capable. This is the right choice for individuals who want consistent, private access to infrared heat therapy without committing to a larger footprint.
FD-2: The Best-Selling Two-Person Model
The FD-2 is Finnmark's best-selling model, sized for two people at 43 inches wide by 40 inches deep by 70 inches tall. Like the FD-1, it operates on a standard 120v outlet, which keeps installation simple. Interior volume comes in at 70 cubic feet, providing noticeably more room to stretch and change positions during a session. The FD-2 suits couples or individuals who want a more spacious solo experience without stepping up to a multi-person unit.
FD-3: Three to Four Person Capacity
The FD-3 offers the most interior space in the range, with dimensions of 67 inches wide by 41 inches deep by 70 inches tall and a room volume of 111.3 cubic feet. It requires a 240v 15-amp outlet and ships at 605 pounds. The ergonomic bench design and expanded capacity make this model well suited to households where multiple people will be using the sauna regularly or to anyone who simply prefers more room to move. For those interested in converting an existing room into a dedicated sauna space, our infrared room kit collection is also worth exploring.
Construction and Materials
All three models in the FD range are built to the same material specification, regardless of size. These are not entry-level units with decorative finishes. Every component is selected for durability, hygiene, and long-term performance.
Antimicrobial Cedar Interior
The interior of each FD sauna is lined with Western Canadian cedar, which is naturally antimicrobial and resistant to mold, bacteria, and fungus. This matters in a high-humidity, high-temperature environment where lesser materials would trap odors or degrade over time. Cedar also remains comfortable to the touch during a session, which is important given how close the walls and benches are during use.
Thermal Plus Aspen Exterior
The exterior cladding on all FD models is Thermal Plus Aspen, a material that has been organically treated with heat and steam to prevent rot, warping, decay, and chipping. This treatment extends the service life of the sauna significantly compared to untreated timber exteriors. The double-wall construction is filled with non-toxic wool insulation, which improves thermal retention and helps the sauna reach target temperature faster.
Low EMF and ETL Certified
The FD series has been tested for electromagnetic field emissions by a NASA award-winning testing facility and carries ETL certification. The heaters achieve high emissivity ratings, meaning they convert electrical energy into infrared output efficiently. The 8mm tempered glass door provides thermal retention while keeping the interior visible and accessible. Each unit ships with a built-in LCD Wi-Fi touchscreen controller with Bluetooth audio and 6-inch Hi-Fi speakers already included. If you prefer the character and tradition of wood-fired heat, our traditional Finnish saunas collection offers a range of alternatives.
Who These Saunas Are Built For
The FD range is designed for home use and built to a standard that supports regular, long-term use. That said, different users will find different value in what full spectrum infrared heat delivers.
Recovery and Athletic Performance
Infrared heat increases blood flow to muscles and supporting tissue, which supports recovery between training sessions. The deeper penetration of full spectrum wavelengths reaches into muscle and connective tissue rather than warming only the surface. For people who train consistently and want a reliable recovery tool at home, regular infrared sauna sessions are a practical addition to an existing routine.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction
The lower ambient temperatures of an infrared sauna, compared to a traditional steam sauna, make sessions more accessible for people who find conventional sauna heat uncomfortable. Sessions at 120 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit are well tolerated by most users and can be sustained for longer durations, which gives the body more time to enter a deeply relaxed state. The built-in audio system and Wi-Fi controller support a more comfortable, personalised session without needing to leave the sauna to adjust settings.
General Wellness and Daily Use
Full spectrum infrared saunas are also used for general wellness maintenance, including support for circulation, skin health, and sleep quality. Because the FD-1 and FD-2 run on standard home outlets, there is no barrier to daily use once installed. The Finnmark units are compact enough to fit in a spare room, a basement, or a large bathroom without requiring structural modification. For larger build projects, our indoor sauna kits collection includes modular options for custom room installations.
Ready to Bring Full Spectrum Infrared Therapy Home?
Browse the Finnmark FD-1, FD-2, and FD-3 above to compare sizes and specifications. Each model ships with everything needed for assembly and comes with a limited warranty and full ETL certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between full spectrum infrared and standard infrared?
Standard infrared saunas use carbon panels that emit far infrared wavelengths only. Full spectrum models add near and mid infrared, which allows the heat to interact with tissue at different depths. The Finnmark FD series pairs long-wave carbon 360 panels with short-wave Spectrum Plus incoloy heaters, a combination no other manufacturer uses, to maximize coverage and penetration across the full infrared spectrum.
Do the FD-1 and FD-2 require special electrical installation?
No. Both the FD-1 and FD-2 operate on a standard 120v 15-amp outlet using a NEMA 5-15P plug, which is a standard US household outlet. The FD-3 requires a 240v 15-amp outlet with a NEMA 6-15P plug, which may require a dedicated circuit depending on your home's existing wiring.
How long does it take the sauna to reach temperature?
All three FD models are designed to reach up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit in under one hour. Actual heat-up time will vary depending on the ambient temperature of the room and the target temperature set on the controller.
Are these saunas safe to use daily?
Yes. Full spectrum infrared saunas operating at lower temperatures are generally well tolerated for daily use by healthy adults. As with any heat therapy, users should stay hydrated, avoid sessions immediately after strenuous exertion, and consult a physician if they have any underlying health conditions before beginning regular use.
What is included with each Finnmark FD sauna?
Each unit ships fully complete and includes all structural panels, the glass door, bench components, heater panels, Spectrum LED near infrared ceiling lights, the Wi-Fi LCD touchscreen controller with Bluetooth audio, 6-inch Hi-Fi speakers, 8mm tempered glass, and removable adjustable sauna feet. ETL certification documentation and a limited warranty are also included.
Let customers speak for us
Neil Martin
Superb in every way!
They say ‘happy wife, happy life’. Well I can vouch for that, we are both extremely happy with our latest addition to home set-up.
From the beginning the sauna was easy to purchase and get delivered (with in a couple of weeks due to stock levels). I had to hand ball off the lorry as the pallet it comes in was too big for the tail lift but that’s about the most difficult part of the whole process.
Instructions were fairly straightforward though I am a builder so have experience in this sort of thing. But most handy DIYers will find this easy enough to build.
If you plan in the time to paint various woods at different stages of the build it will help. i.e paint interior wall and benches prior to fitting the benches makes its easier to reach those otherwise hard to reach places.
The guys sent a really great link with electrical details needed for your electrician so you can prep ahead of time and get materials in place for their arrival. Think it took my guy about three hours to hook it up.
Quality of the thermo wood is excellent keeps the heat in really well. The Heater is easy to operate and within 20mins it’s ready to jump in. Max heat will in time reach 90+degrees which is too hot for me.
Already have friends and family asking about it.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Dean Wilde
Amazing product, exceptional service
The quality of the black cube sauna really is top notch, from the roof shingles to the heater every component is quality.
Delivery was perfect, on time and professional. The driver contacted me on route with an ETA and went out of his way to help me get the large pallet into my garage.
I chose to build the sauna myself which was relatively straightforward and quite enjoyable. The construction guide was comprehensive and easy to follow.
We use our new sausa almost every day and couldn't be happier.
Would certainly recommend Heracles and the black cube to anyone considering an outdoor sauna.
Leil® Black Cube Classic 4 Person Outdoor Sauna Kit
Jemma
Fabulous Sauna
We are delighted with our sauna. Ordering was easy and we opted for the install option too. Make sure you use electricians willing to ask for advice from the Heracles team if needed as that supports a smooth installation. Really happy that we chose Heracles. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality product that does the job beautifully.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
CSB
Superb!
We have now had our Leil 5 Person Sauna with Changing Room running for a few weeks - and absolutely love it. If you want very good quality and excellent service, then absolutely use Heracles. Friendly, efficient & helpful advice all the way through the process. And they ARE right about using one of their recommended electricians unless yours has done saunas before!! We used the install service - which was also perfect - and all the recommended oils (which by the way is not a quick job!). Even had some left over wood which we have used to make the outdoor shower. HUUM heater; good tip from installers - wash stones before put in basket as they have black 'dust'. And HUUM have just released a new app thank goodness as old one rubbish. Thank you Keith and team; very happy customers.
Leil® Patio M 5 Person Outdoor Sauna with Changing Room
Robin
Our sauna cabin sanctuary: quality & contentment!
For years I have enjoyed the health benefits of a regular sauna - choosing to install a glazed steam shower in our urban apartment more than a decade ago.
Frequent and extensive travels into Finland, exploring the Arctic north, confirmed our dedication to therapeutic steam (and ice plunges)!
Having relocated to a rural setting, it was time - at last - for a sauna cabin in the garden.
Thorough research confirmed the quality of the Leil range and the perfect option, for us, of the "round cube double" - an elegant, robust, thermowood construction with ample space as you enter through the separate changing room onwards into the beautifully benched and glazed interior.
The Leil "round cube double" is offered with a range of upgrades, sauna heaters and lights. We chose to keep it simple: just the glazed cabin, to suit our rural setting. However, we did opt for the larger 2.6m size, so that the benches are sufficient for those over 6' to enjoy a full horizontal stretch!
From start to finish, the Heracles Wellness team offered reliable expert advice and communication, as well as very helpful liaison during the delivery and construction phase. I wanted a quality product, but I also needed quality customer care for a complex delivery and technical installation.
The installation - organised by Heracles Wellness - was completed to schedule with real attention to detail: the team of carpenters had extensive experience with sauna construction, including the Leil range.
It was very clear what was included 'in the price' and what we needed to complete ourselves after installation: the electrical connection, interior wall and bench treatments must be completed before first use.
As we await those final stages - and the first sauna in the new cabin - the Leil "round cube double" has already become an exceptional sauna cabin sanctuary: quality and contentment!
Leil® Round Cube Double Outdoor Sauna with Changing Room 5-6 Person
Vin
Amazing service from a wonderful team, awesome product
Couldn't be happier with our experience with the entire Heracles Wellness team, specially Abdullah and Keith. They were available to answer any queries and give advice all along the way, and their installers did a fabulous job too. The product itself is amazing, and we have been really enjoying it. Highly recommended!
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
George Gray
Exceptional service and awesome sauna
From initial inquiry to delivery everything was taken care of, late evening what’s app to solve a problem our end with electrics. I can highly recommend
Leil® Black Cube Classic 4 Person Outdoor Sauna Kit
Julie K.
We are thrilled with our sauna
We couldn’t be more pleased with our Camilla Traditional sauna kit. From start to finish Keith & Abdullah have been so helpful. The sauna has exceeded our expectations. The wood is beautiful quality. The Harvia heater heats the sauna really quickly. The installation was hassle free - we paid the additional fee for installation & Heracles arranged this for us. Communication has been excellent throughout. We shopped around before choosing Heracles. Heracles were cheaper than any of the other companies that we looked at & we consider the Camilla kit to be great value for such a high quality product. We are completely satisfied.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Aditi
Amazing sauna accompanied by a brilliant service
I had done a lot of research before purchasing that sauna, looking for one that offer the right health benefits by having the right wood a sauna should have to conserve heat along with the best heater (Harvia) whilst still being value for money. The reviews gave me confidence after knowing the specifications aligned with what I wanted and I couldn’t be happier with having made the purchase. The service was brilliant, all my questions answered imminently , Abdullah was very patient and accommodating especially when getting the sauna installed and the electrics arranged by our own electrician. We paid extra for the sauna to be built and treated and the team were so professional and hard working doing an excellent job. Worth the money spent once again and would definitely recommend !
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Tom Firmin
Amazing bit of kit alongside great customer service
Really pleased with the build quality of my Camilla sauna unit, it looks great particularly after applying necessary external and internal oil. Keith and team customer service and communication could not have been better, and Keith helped explain I could put heater on the left hand side of the sauna (as I enter) to help the electrician wire up to adjacent shed unit. Highly recommend.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna 3-4 Person
Fred Blunden
So happy with my sauna!
After researching several different companies selling saunas, I was very happy to come across Heracles Wellness. I phoned them to ask some questions and they were very helpful in answering all my queries. I then decided to purchase the Insignia Hybrid Sauna.
A delivery date was set and the sauna was delivered as arranged with no problems.
With the help of a friend, we built the sauna and our electrician connected all the electrics up.
I have used the sauna a few times since it’s been up and running and I am very pleased with it as I have Parkinson’s and Rheumatoid Arthritis so hoping it helps alleviate pain and aching.
I would thoroughly recommend the company if you are looking for an excellent quality product and very good customer service.
Insignia Hybrid Infrared and Traditional 2 Person Outdoor Sauna
Charlie Mitchell
Fantastic sauna backed up by second to none customer service
We couldn't be more happy with this purchase! Recommended by another happy customer we know, customer service has been great from start to finish. Easy to contact someone and arrange delivery as well as a couple of questions during installation and optimising how we use it. The quality of the product is also great and gives a great sauna experience.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
John Ellmore
Fantastic service and experience
We are very happy with the product and the experience with Heracles. Good communication throughout the process, was delivered quickly and installed within one day without issue. We had a slight snag with our lighting set up, Keith was on hand to support our electrician over the phone and we got sorted. Thanks!!
Leil® Round Cube Single Outdoor Sauna 6-8 Person
Louise
My Luxurious Garden Escape!
I couldn’t be happier with my barrel outdoor sauna—it has completely transformed both my garden and my evening routine.
The craftsmanship is outstanding, with beautifully finished wood, a solid structure and an aesthetically pleasing design that makes the sauna look visually striking whilst having a practical layout too.
The curved barrel shape adds real character to my garden. It’s not just a sauna; it’s a true focal point that has elevated my entire outdoor space. It heats up quickly (in around 45 minutes) distributing warmth evenly inside.
In practical terms, my barrel sauna has proven to be a fantastic investment. Running costs have been very reasonable, working out at approximately £3 per session. Beyond that, the benefits to relaxation, wellbeing, and overall lifestyle have been outstanding. For example an unsightly cold sore completely disappeared after just two sauna sessions which otherwise would have taken a few weeks to heal.
A special thanks goes to Abdullan Yaqoob for his exceptional support from start to finish—nothing was ever too much trouble. He patiently answered all my many questions and even arranged for me to visit a previously installed sauna, which was incredibly helpful in making my decision.
Finally, I’d like to thank the installation team, who worked tirelessly—even in the snow—to have the sauna fully assembled in just seven hours. Their dedication and professionalism were truly impressive.
This sauna has genuinely elevated my home and wellbeing, and I'm delighted to recommend Hercales.
Heracles Wellness
John
My Beautiful Sauna
10/10 on the value for your money
10 /10 for Style & looks
10 /10 for the layout design and available space inside
10 /10 for the quality of the selected timber inside and out
10/10 for the sleek glass heating controller
10/10 on the modern drop heater and the heating up time (very fast)
10/10 for the installation team (ultimate pros) you wont believe how dedicated they are
10/10 for treating my property with respect
10/10 for Keith's and the teams customer service
Would I use this company again you guessed it 10/10
Adding up to a100% satisfying experience
Well done Keith and the team credit were credit is due
Leil® Black Cube Comfort 6-8 Person Outdoor Sauna
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Specializes in premium wellness products including saunas and hot tubs. Customers consistently praise exceptional service from Keith, Abdullah, and team throughout purchasing, delivery, and installation. Professional installation teams deliver efficient, high-...
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