Understanding Harvia Sauna Heaters
Founded in 1950, Harvia has grown to become one of the leading sauna heater
manufacturers worldwide. Known for their quality, innovation, and reliability,
Harvia offers a variety of heaters, including wood-burning, electric, and
combi models. Each type has its unique benefits and is designed to cater to
specific user preferences and sauna environments.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Harvia Sauna Heater
1. Sauna Size and Power Requirements
The size of your sauna is one of the most critical factors when selecting a
heater. Heaters are rated by their power output, measured in kilowatts (kW).
The general rule of thumb is that for every cubic meter of sauna space, you
need approximately 1 kW of power.
For example:
- A 4-6 cubic meter sauna would require a heater with 4-6 kW.
- A 10 cubic meter sauna would need a heater with around 10 kW.
The power requirement increases if there are window surfaces or heat-storing
surfaces such as brick, concrete, or massive logs in the sauna. If the heating
capacity is too small, the heater needs to be heated longer and more
intensely, reducing its lifespan.
2. Type of Sauna Heater
Harvia offers several types of sauna heaters, each with distinct features and
benefits:
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are the most popular and convenient option. They draw power
from the electricity network to heat the elements, which then warm the stones.
Harvia’s electric heaters offer easy user experiences with versatile control
options, including manual switches, separate control units, and even remote
control via the MyHarvia mobile application.
Popular Models:
- Harvia The Wall Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia TopClass Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia Virta Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia Cilindro Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia Club Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia Forte Electric Sauna Heater
- Harvia KIP Electric Sauna Heater
Wood-Burning Heaters
Wood-burning heaters are the most traditional and atmospheric choice. These
heaters use actual firewood to heat the stones, creating a gentle, healing
steam. Harvia's wood-burning options have evolved significantly since the
1950s, with models like the GreenFlame offering cleaner burning for a more
sustainable experience.
Popular Models:
- Harvia Cauldron Wood-Burning Sauna Stove
- Harvia Legend Wood-Burning Sauna Stove
- Harvia Linear Wood-Burning Sauna Stove
- Harvia M3 Wood-Burning Sauna Stove
- Harvia Pro Wood-Burning Sauna Stove
Combi Heaters
Combi heaters combine the generous steam of a steam room with the warming
stones of an electric heater. These models allow you to adjust humidity and
heat to match your preference, offering both a soft, gentle sauna experience
and a dryer, hotter one. They often include integrated steamers and options
for herbs and fragrances.
Popular Models:
- Harvia Virta Combi Electric Sauna Heater
3. Control Options
Harvia sauna heaters come with various control options to suit different
preferences:
-
Built-in Controls: Integrated into the unit for simplicity
and ease of use.
-
Separate Control Units: Allow control from outside the
sauna room, offering more flexibility in placement and convenience.
4. Safety Features
Safety is paramount with sauna heaters. Harvia heaters are equipped with
multiple safety features, including:
-
Overheat Protection: Prevents the heater from reaching
unsafe temperatures.
-
Thermal Cut-Off: Automatically shuts off the heater if it
overheats.
-
Protective Guards: Ensures safe operation and prevents
accidental contact with hot surfaces.
5. Home vs. Commercial Use
Saunas are popular both in private homes and commercial environments such as
hotels, spas, and gyms. Harvia heaters are suitable for both, offering models
that cater to different usage frequencies and durability requirements.
Commercial users can benefit from Harvia’s control units, which allow easy
adjustments to create the perfect environment for customers.
Overview of Harvia Electric Sauna Heaters