Types of sauna stoves

Sauna stoves differ in parameters, appearance and type of operation. The main purpose of the device is to maintain the necessary microclimate in the bathhouse. Today you can find many different models in stores, however, not every owner knows which stove is best to choose for a bathhouse so that it fully performs its functions.

Types of sauna stoves

Today there are several types of sauna stoves.

According to the furnace material

Typically, sauna stoves are made of cast iron, steel or brick. The service life of the unit depends on the quality of the material. Modern stainless steel models are considered the most stable and durable. They are slightly smaller in size and the risk of burning oxygen with them is minimal.

It’s difficult to find cast iron models now, as they were popular back in the 90s. With the development of technology, there are fewer devices made of cast iron. Our ancestors built both cast iron and brick stoves. They were very durable and heated the room well. However, compared to steel models, such stoves are difficult to light. It takes a long time for it to warm up completely.

By fuel type

There are three types of stoves based on the type of fuel: gas, wood and electric. There are also combined options, in which two types of fuel are built in at once. This design is quite convenient, since in the summer you can use an electric or gas type, and in the winter you can throw firewood.

Wood is the most affordable and reliable source of energy. With the help of wood, it is possible not only to quickly heat the room, but also to fill it with a pleasant woody smell. In addition, due to the fact that the wood is thrown directly into the stove, there is no need to install gas or electric pipes.

The gas design has a built-in gas thermostat and fuse. This allows you to maintain the same temperature and prevent the fire from going out. Gas models are quite economical, so they are considered the most popular.

Electric versions have a built-in special core that runs on electricity. You can regulate the temperature on them and you don’t have to wait for the wood to burn or the structure to heat up. Heat supply starts 10-15 minutes after switching on. Despite their versatility, such models are quite expensive. In addition, you cannot turn on such a stove if there is no electricity.

By type of design

Sauna stoves differ not only in material, but also in type of construction. There are three main types:

• Closed type. Designed for small baths. It has a metal body, divided into 3 identical compartments. The structure is laid with bricks inside and out, which allows you to retain heat in the steam room for a long time.

Important! Closed-type structures require a lot of fuel; this must be taken into account when choosing a model.

• Open type. They also have a metal body, but in models the heater is open. On top of it there is a grate for stones. This design emits drier steam, so it can heat a room up to 90-100 °C.
• Combined type. Includes two types of models, so it is multifunctional and easy to use.

Combined options

Modern manufacturers produce combined versions of sauna stoves. They are easy to use and allow you to heat the room with natural gas or wood. The unit has several additional circuit elements that are removed when changing fuel. Most often, models are made of stainless steel.

A sauna stove is an indispensable attribute of a sauna. It heats the entire room, creates a steam room effect, helps you relax and warm up. The quality of work and fuel consumption will depend on the type of design. If you need to choose an economical, but at the same time convenient, good option, pay attention to gas or wood-burning models. If the type of fuel does not matter, then you can take combined models that will be indispensable at any time of the year.