We are quite frequently asked how the controls work on a typical sauna heater. Sometimes the question comes from someone who has moved to a new house that has a sauna and no instructions and occasionally from a puzzled electrician who is confused by the manufacturer's handbook.

Fortunately, most manufacturers have adopted a similar approach and there are normally two controls. The first is an on/off switch and timer, and the second is a temperature control that is used to adjust the heat in the sauna cabin.

On/Off Timer

This is the dial marked with a solid segment numbered 0 - 4 clockwise, followed by an outline segment numbered 0 - 8. The solid segment denotes heater "on" and the numbers remaining are hours left before the heater switches itself off. The outline segment is so that the heater can be set to come on up to 8 hours in advance before the knob reaches the "on" section.

If you want the sauna to come on immediately, you must put the timer in the solid segment and allow 30 - 45 minutes for the sauna to reach temperature.

Once the dial has been set, it can be altered manually either way and at any time before it has run its course.

Temperature Control

This is the other dial that is marked with a gradually broadening band where the broadest point is the maximum temperature. The temperature setting is infinitely variable between two extremes and after a few sessions of sauna bathing you will quickly establish which setting is best for you.

If you are just starting out, a good position for the dial to begin with is about two-thirds of the way round. It may be adjusted later up or down to reach your ideal temperature.

It is important to emphasise that the temperature adjustment is best achieved in conjunction with an accurate sauna thermometer.

Normal Operation

Put the On/Off Timer into the solid segment on 3 say. Make sure that the Temperature Control is in the desired position and leave the sauna to heat up.

Use the sauna and adjust the Temperature Control if necessary during the session. When you have finished using the sauna - turn off the On/Off Timer.

If you should forget to switch off, most controllers are designed to do this automatically when the set time has expired. However, switching the unit off after use is a good habit to get into.

Sauna Not Heating Up?

Double-check that you have set the sauna controls correctly. Check that the sauna isolator is switched on. Check that the sauna circuit breaker has not tripped.

If the sauna is on, but it is not getting hot enough, it may be that one of the heater elements needs replacing. Either way, if you give us a ring, we'll do our best to help get your sauna going properly again.