A sauna is one of the best forms of self-care. Heat therapy supports a better inflammatory response, sleep, and recovery. Physical benefits aside, it’s just a great way to relax and unwind, melting the stress away by the minute.
We see so many of our customers focus on the size, style, and features of their sauna, but the heating element is what matters most in bringing the benefits of sauna therapy into your home or business.
That’s why we’ve made sure to include ALL the types of sauna heaters in our collection, including the propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater. But which style is right for you between these two? You’ve come to the right place.
The short answer is you’ll probably be best suited with an electric sauna heater. These are the simplest to use and the most common choice for home saunas. You have unparalleled control at your fingertips with a quality electric heater for your sauna.
That said, propane and other types of gas sauna heaters have their place in outdoor or off-grid installations where electricity is limited. These are commonplace in commercial installations as well for their affordability at scale. But, home installations are rare since they’re so complex.
Learn more about the gas vs electric sauna differences below as we’ll compare the two based on what matters most - heat performance, ease of use, maintenance, cost, and a whole lot more.
But since Nordica Sauna is your trusted choice for any sauna heater style, we encourage you to simply connect with our customer service team for a personalized recommendation. We can talk about your unique situation and help you narrow it down to a style, brand, and size today!
| Feature | Electric Sauna Heater | Propane Sauna Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Style | Electric coils heat stones and surrounding air | Open flame heats stones directly and radiates warmth |
| Installation Complexity | Usually hardwired; may require licensed electrician | Needs propane setup, ventilation, and proper clearance |
| Operating Cost | Higher electricity usage, especially for daily use | Generally lower cost per session, depending on propane prices |
| Heat-Up Time | Moderate to fast, depending on model size | Typically heats up quickly and reaches high temps fast |
| Maintenance Needs | Low; occasional cleaning and stone checks | More involved; monitor burner, gas lines, and ventilation |
| Environmental Impact | Cleaner when powered by renewable electricity | Emits CO₂; not ideal for airtight or urban environments |
| Best Use Case | Great for both indoor and outdoor saunas, simple operation, and effortless control. | Ideal for off-grid, commercial, or outdoor setups. |
Overview of Electric Sauna Heaters
| Pros | - Easy to control with digital panels - Low maintenance requirements - Clean, quiet operation - Ideal for indoor setups - Compatible with traditional sauna stones and steam |
| Cons | - Requires 240V hardwiring in most cases - Professional installation often needed - Higher energy usage and operating costs - Slower to heat than gas |
| Best For | - Indoor saunas - Homeowners with access to reliable electricity - Those seeking low-maintenance, hands-off heating |
These are by far the most popular style we sell here at Nordica Sauna, and it’s not hard to see why. These heaters convert electrical energy into thermal energy through internal heating coils, which warm both the air and the sauna stones for a consistent, high-heat environment.
Most electric models are compatible with either 120V or 240V circuits, depending on size and heat output. However, higher capacity models require professional installation. DIY sauna heater wiring isn’t always a smart or safe approach.
The biggest advantage of electric heaters is their ease of use. You can set the exact temperature and session duration with precision using digital or manual controls - sometimes, remotely from a smartphone app!
Electric heaters are also a clean, low-maintenance option. No fuel storage, venting, or open flames are involved like with wood-burning sauna stoves. Plus, electric heaters support the traditional Finnish sauna experience as you can pour water on the stones for steam, or löyly.
There aren’t many “downsides” to electric sauna heaters, but they are dependent on grid power. Operating costs can also add up over time, especially with higher-wattage models for larger saunas. That said, this style is the go-to for reliability and simplicity.
Overview of Propane Sauna Heaters
| Pros | - Fast heat-up times - Powerful, consistent performance - Excellent for outdoor or off-grid locations - Doesn’t rely on electrical infrastructure |
| Cons | - Requires safe propane storage - Needs proper ventilation - Not ideal for indoor use without major modifications - Less precise temperature control |
| Best For | - Outdoor saunas - Cabins and rural/off-grid properties - Users with regular access to propane |
Propane sauna heaters are definitely less common than, say, the infrared vs electric heater sauna or even the wood vs electric sauna heater. Yet, they have their place. There’s a reason you’re here looking to learn about the propane sauna heater vs electric, after all.
This style is great for outdoor saunas and off-grid installations where electricity is limited or unavailable. It generates heat through liquid propane gas combustion, which warms both the air and sauna stones similarly to electric heaters.
What sets them apart is their independence from electrical infrastructure and how easily they can quickly reach high temperatures, even in cold weather.
We’ve also seen some users say a propane heater often delivers a more “authentic” sauna because of the slightly more dynamic, radiant heat it creates.
Models vary from vented to unvented designs, with the former requiring a flue or chimney for safe gas exhaust. Some units include pilot lights and temperature control systems, but manual adjustment is more common than in electric units. This can be a major inconvenience.
Propane sauna heaters provide energy independence, rapid heat-up times, and high output - it’s hard to ignore those benefits. But, the setup complexity can turn a lot of people away from these. They require ventilation, fuel storage, and regular monitoring.
There’s also the ongoing cost and logistics of propane refills. In return, though, you get strong heat output, even in remote locations, and the ability to sauna completely off-grid. So, which is better between the propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater?
Propane Sauna Heater vs Electric: Which Style is Right For Your Sauna?
It’s important to note that each of these styles has its place. One is not inherently better than the other across the board. It’s just a matter of weighing the pros and cons between a gas vs electric sauna heater and determining which matters most to you.
Like we said from the get-go, don’t feel like this is a decision you have to make all on your own. Our sauna experts can talk over your needs and offer a tailored recommendation - not just for whether you should go with a propane sauna heater vs electric, but a specific brand and model we think is perfect for your sauna cabin and budget.
Here are the factors you need to consider in choosing between a gas vs electric sauna heater.
Heat Performance and Sauna Experience
The sauna experience varies greatly depending on the type of heater in question. How you’ll feel in an infrared sauna is very unique compared to the traditional Finnish sauna.
That aside, electric sauna heaters are pretty close to what you’d have experienced in Finland back in the day. These heat the room gradually and allow for steam production by pouring water over hot stones. The result is a consistent, enveloping heat that builds slowly and can reach up to 190°F.
On the other hand, propane sauna heaters warm the space rapidly with more intensity. This is great for outdoor settings where electric heaters might struggle with speed. While they also work with sauna stones, the heat can feel more aggressive and drier, so keep that in mind.
Installation and Setup Requirements
For what it’s worth, we almost always recommend hiring an expert to install your sauna heater, regardless of whether you choose a propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater. Neither of these necessarily aligns with the DIY approach.
Electric heaters typically need their own dedicated 240V electrical circuit and often call for professional installation. Proper wiring, circuit breakers, and controls must all be accounted for, especially in indoor applications.
Propane heaters require venting and safe gas line connections. They're most commonly installed in outdoor saunas or detached buildings where propane access is straightforward.
These systems also need proper airflow and attention to carbon monoxide safety, though. This can add more hurdles to the process depending on your site, and in turn, increase the costs of installation. Speaking of cost…
Operating Costs and Fuel Efficiency
So much emphasis is placed on the upfront sauna heater cost. Rightfully so, as these can be quite the investment at somewhere between $700-$3,000+. But what about ongoing costs of operation?
Electric heaters consume between 6 to 9 kW per hour depending on the model and usage. The actual price you’ll pay to use your sauna is dictated on local energy rates and frequency of use. But they do tend to be less fuel-efficient in general than propane.
Natural gas is relatively affordable and readily available compared to electricity, which is why these heaters usually pay for themselves over the course of time. They also offer higher BTU output per unit of fuel, leading to faster heating and shorter session times.
Just know that fluctuations in propane pricing and the need for regular refills can offset the savings for some users. Run the numbers based on your specific region to see which makes more financial sense - and remember, you shouldn’t make this decision based on cost alone.
Maintenance and Longevity
All sauna heaters need some level of care to keep them working their best for years to come. This is quite the investment, so it’s worth doing a bit of maintenance every now and then to prevent more expensive repairs or complete replacement.
That said, electric heaters are known for being relatively low-maintenance. Aside from occasional cleaning and inspections of the heating elements, these units typically run for years without significant issues.
In contrast, propane sauna heaters have more moving parts. These include burners, pilot lights, and ventilation systems that all need to be maintained regularly. You’ll also need to inspect gas lines and components periodically for safety.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Electric sauna heaters are only as clean as the grid they rely on. This means they can be pretty eco-friendly if you have a solar system installed on your property and rely on that for fueling your sauna sessions. But, the footprint will be higher if your region depends on fossil fuels.
Propane is a fossil fuel itself, albeit more clean-burning than alternatives like wood or coal. Still, it emits greenhouse gases and requires extraction and transportation, both of which impact sustainability.
Availability and Compatibility with Sauna Designs
Electric heaters are widely available and come in a range of sizes, styles, and control systems. They integrate easily with prefabricated saunas and custom indoor setups. Many include programmable timers and mobile app support.
Conversely, propane heaters are more niche. They tend to be reserved for much larger, commercial-style saunas rather than home use. They also work best in cabin retreats and remote outdoor installations. You’ll definitely need to do more planning in terms of layout and clearance, too.
Safety Considerations
Be clear, both the propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater can be perfectly safe when you shop with a trusted brand like Nordica Sauna and have it installed by a professional. However, it’s fair to wonder which is safer between a gas vs electric sauna heater.
Electric heaters are generally considered very safe for indoor use with features like built-in thermostats, timers, and auto-shutoff features that reduce the risk of overheating.
Propane heaters, on the other hand, carry specific risks related to gas leaks and carbon monoxide exposure. Proper ventilation and placement are non-negotiable. You also need to handle propane tanks and lines with care.
Who Should Pick Which?
At the end of the day only you can determine whether a propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater makes the most sense. Here’s a quick recommendation, though:
- Choose Electric if you want a traditional sauna feel with less hands-on maintenance, reliable performance, and built-in safety features. Ideal for indoor use and homeowners with established electrical service.
- Choose Propane if you’re building an outdoor sauna in a remote or off-grid location and need fast heat with minimal electrical demand. Great for cabins, rural properties, or frequent outdoor sauna users.
Remember, though, a personalized recommendation is just a click away at Nordica Sauna - and either way, we’ve got you covered with the top models from the most trusted brands!
Nordica Sauna Has the Perfect Heater Regardless of Your Preferences!
Whether you're building a luxury backyard sauna or outfitting a compact indoor retreat, Nordica Sauna brings you the best selection of both propane and electric sauna heaters - with zero pressure and full transparency.
We carry only the top sauna manufacturers such as Harvia sauna heaters or HUUM sauna heaters, so you can rest assured you’re getting the reliable, efficient solution you deserve no matter what you buy from us.
If you need a propane heater for your off-grid or outdoor setup, we’ve got powerful, efficient models that deliver fast heat and unbeatable atmosphere. Prefer electric? Choose from sleek, user-friendly units with smart controls and optional stone trays for that traditional steam burst.
You can also find a sauna wood stove for sale or infrared saunas for sale in our catalog. This is truly your one-stop shop for all things sauna. No matter your setup, you’ll enjoy free shipping, financing options, a price match guarantee, and even HSA/FSA eligibility on select models.
Our sauna experts are here to help you size, select, and install the right heater for your goals - without upsells or bias. We also have an intuitive sauna heater size chart to help you narrow your options down.
Your perfect sauna starts with the right heater. Let’s help you find it.
Wrapping Up Our Gas vs Electric Sauna Heater Comparison
We hope this propane sauna heater vs electric sauna heater comparison has left you feeling clear and confident about which option is right for you. Each has its pros and cons. It just comes down to location, fuel availability, and the kind of sauna experience you’re after.
Electric offers cleaner setup and controls, while propane gives you independence and outdoor flexibility. Both are great - just different. We’ve got you covered either way.
Take our sauna quiz for a personalized recommendation or talk to our experts for honest, one-on-one guidance. Browse top-rated sauna heaters and shop with confidence today!
