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Differences between infrared and steam saunas

Along with our hot tubs, we also carry a range of infrared saunas that are a great addition to any workout room or basement. These saunas come boxed for a simple customer installation and require very little effort to setup compared to a steam sauna. Outlined below is a table comparing some of the benefits of a Canadian Spa Company infrared sauna to a typical steam sauna.

  Canadian Spa Infrared Sauna Steam Sauna
Generated heat Creates dry heat Wet steam heat
Safety No direct access to heating element provides a child-friendly environment Access to hot coals is required for steam to be created
Power consumption Plugs into a normal 13A plug socket Requires electrical installation as power consumption is high
Installation Can easily be assembled by the customer Comes as one unit and is difficult to transport
Ventilation Infrared saunas do not have ventilation issues as it is a dry heat Requires proper ventilation or must be used outside

 

See our full sauna range.

UK Spa Buying and Ownership Guide

After reading Differences between infrared and steam saunas, many customers ask the same practical questions: what hot tub size fits best, how much does a hot tub cost to run, and which model gives the best long-term value in UK weather. The right answer normally comes from comparing insulation quality, jet layout, seating comfort, and ongoing maintenance support, not just headline price.

Canadian Spa Company UK supplies hot tubs, swim spas, saunas, replacement hot tub covers, filters, chemicals and accessories with nationwide delivery. If you are planning to buy a hot tub UK homeowners use year-round, shortlist models by intended use first: daily recovery, social entertaining, or family wellness. Then compare power requirements, cover quality, and service access so ownership stays simple over time.

For clearer next steps, use the links below to compare ranges, check current hot tub prices UK buyers are paying, and book support when needed.

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UK Spa Buying Help and Product Support

You are viewing Differences between infrared and steam saunas | Canadian Spa Company UK. Canadian Spa Company UK supports customers across hot tubs, swim spas, saunas, replacement hot tub covers, spa chemicals, filters, parts and servicing. This section provides practical guidance so buyers can compare the right products, understand long-term running costs and make better decisions for UK climate conditions, patio sizes and year-round use.

When comparing hot tubs for sale UK customers often focus first on price, but long-term value depends on insulation quality, heater efficiency, cover fit, shell build, control system reliability and local support access. A model with stronger thermal efficiency can reduce ongoing electricity usage and can remain more stable in colder weather. If you are choosing between cheap hot tubs UK listings, compare specification depth and support availability, not just headline cost.

For families and regular hosting, 6 seater hot tubs and larger multi-zone seating layouts often provide better flexibility. For smaller gardens or couples, compact formats can still deliver effective hydrotherapy if jet placement and pump performance are matched to intended use. If your goal is recovery and exercise rather than relaxation only, a swim spa can offer resistance training and all-season low-impact movement while still providing warm-water therapy.

Sauna buyers should compare cabin dimensions, heater type, wood quality, electrical requirements and placement options. Infrared and traditional sauna experiences differ in heat profile and warm-up behaviour; the best option depends on usage frequency, preferred temperature range and installation constraints. For many homes, planning ventilation and safe electrical supply early prevents installation delays.

Replacement covers, filters and water treatment also have a direct effect on running cost and comfort. A high-quality replacement hot tub cover reduces heat loss, helps water stay cleaner and lowers heater workload. Correct filter fit and regular chemical balancing support water clarity and bather comfort while reducing wear on pumps and heater components. If a spa is underperforming, service checks for flow, seals, valves and sensor status usually identify causes quickly.

For ownership planning, treat total cost as purchase price plus electricity, consumables, maintenance and occasional replacement parts. Preventive maintenance is normally lower cost than reactive repair. Seasonal checks, circulation health, cover condition and calibration reviews can reduce downtime and extend product life. If you need help deciding what to buy or how to maintain existing equipment, use the category links below to move directly to relevant products and support pages.

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Quick Buyer and Owner FAQ

How much does a hot tub cost in the UK?
Up-front cost varies by size, jet count, insulation quality and controls. Compare specification, warranty and long-term energy efficiency together for a realistic value view.

Which hot tub size is best for home use?
Choose based on regular user count, patio footprint and intended use. 4-person formats suit compact spaces, while 6-seater options suit families and social use.

Are cheap hot tubs good value?
They can be, if build quality, insulation and after-sales support are strong. Low purchase price without reliable support can increase long-term ownership cost.

How often should filters and chemicals be checked?
Routine water care should be checked frequently with filters cleaned on schedule. Consistent maintenance helps avoid clarity issues and protects system components.

When should I book servicing?
Book service for persistent heat loss, leak signs, circulation issues, control errors, unusual noise or before/after heavy seasonal usage periods.