One of the most common questions homeowners ask before buying a sauna is whether it requires electrical wiring, plumbing, or both. The answer depends entirely on the type of sauna you choose. Some saunas plug into a standard outlet, others require dedicated electrical circuits, and most do not need any plumbing at all.
This guide breaks down exactly what electrical and plumbing requirements to expect for infrared saunas, traditional electric saunas, wood-burning saunas, and outdoor installations—so you can plan correctly and avoid costly surprises.
Quick Summary: Sauna Electrical & Plumbing Requirements
- Infrared saunas require electricity but no plumbing
- Electric traditional saunas require electricity but no plumbing
- Wood-burning saunas typically require no electricity and no plumbing
- All saunas handle water manually—no drain lines or water hookups required
Do Saunas Require Plumbing?
In almost all residential installations, saunas do not require plumbing.
Even traditional steam-style saunas do not connect to a water line. Water is poured manually over heated stones using a bucket and ladle to create steam (löyly). There are no pipes, drains, or permanent water connections involved.
What About Drains?
Drains are optional, not required. Most home saunas are installed without a floor drain. Any moisture evaporates naturally due to the high operating temperature.
Drains may be considered in:
- Commercial saunas
- Gym or spa installations
- High-use saunas with frequent water use
For home use, a drain is unnecessary and not expected by manufacturers.
Electrical Requirements by Sauna Type
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas are the easiest to install from an electrical standpoint and are ideal for homes without access to higher-voltage wiring.
Electrical Requirements
- Standard 110V–120V household outlet
- Dedicated outlet recommended but often not required
- No electrician needed in most cases
Most infrared saunas are plug-and-play and can be installed in bedrooms, basements, offices, or apartments.
Some larger infrared or hybrid models may require 240V power. Always confirm before ordering.
Traditional Electric Saunas
Traditional saunas use an electric heater and sauna stones to create high heat and steam. These require a dedicated electrical circuit.
Electrical Requirements
- 240V hardwired electrical connection
- Dedicated breaker sized to heater kilowatt rating
- Professional electrician required
The heater size depends on your sauna room volume. Using an undersized heater will result in slow heat-up times and poor performance.
Use the Sauna Heater Size Calculator to determine the correct kilowatt rating before installation.
Traditional sauna heaters are available in our Electric Sauna Heaters collection.
Wood-Burning Saunas
Wood-burning saunas are the most self-sufficient option and often require no electricity or plumbing at all.
Requirements
- No electrical connection needed
- No plumbing required
- Proper chimney and fire-clearance planning required
These are commonly used for off-grid cabins, rural properties, or outdoor sauna builds.
Explore Wood Burning Sauna Heaters for compatible stoves.
Outdoor Sauna Considerations
Outdoor saunas follow the same electrical and plumbing rules as indoor saunas, with a few added considerations:
- Electrical wiring must be rated for outdoor or underground use
- GFCI protection may be required by local code
- Trenching may be needed for 240V power
Plumbing is still not required for outdoor saunas.
View our Outdoor Saunas collection for ready-to-install options.
Do You Need a Steam Generator?
Home saunas do not use steam generators like steam showers. Traditional saunas rely on heated stones and manual water application.
If you are looking for a steam room rather than a sauna, that is an entirely different system with full plumbing and waterproofing requirements.
Electrical Cost Considerations
Electrical usage depends on sauna type and heater size:
- Infrared saunas use minimal electricity
- Traditional electric saunas draw more power but run for shorter durations
Estimate your operating cost using the Sauna Electrical Cost Calculator.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all saunas plug into standard outlets
- Skipping heater sizing calculations
- Installing without proper ventilation planning
- Not checking local electrical codes
If you need help planning your setup, visit our Learning Center or request help through Sauna Heater Technical Support.
Final Answer: Do You Need Electrical or Plumbing for a Sauna?
- Yes, saunas require electricity unless they are wood-burning
- No, saunas do not require plumbing
- Infrared saunas are the easiest to install
- Traditional electric saunas require professional electrical work
Choosing the right sauna type ensures a smooth installation and long-term satisfaction. If you’re unsure which option fits your space, explore our Saunas collection or request a Custom Sauna Design & Quote.
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