Infrared Sauna Heater Panels for DIY Builds & Conversions

Infrared sauna heater panels warm your body directly with radiant heat rather than heating the air like a traditional electric heater. They're the core heating element in all infrared saunas, and they're what you need if you're building your own infrared sauna, converting an existing room or closet, or replacing panels in a pre-built unit.

We carry individual panels and complete panel packages from Finnmark Designs in both 120V and 240V configurations. Not sure how many panels you need? Our Infrared Panel Calculator will tell you based on your room dimensions.

Carbon Fiber vs. Ceramic Panels

Carbon Fiber Panels — The most popular choice for DIY infrared sauna builds. Carbon fiber heaters produce a broad, even distribution of far infrared (FIR) wavelengths across a large surface area. They run at lower surface temperatures than ceramic, which means more comfortable radiant heat and longer lifespan. Carbon panels are thin and lightweight, making them easy to mount on walls and ceilings.

Ceramic Panels — Ceramic infrared heaters produce a more focused, intense heat from a smaller surface area. They reach higher surface temperatures than carbon fiber and emit a narrower infrared spectrum. Ceramic panels are a good choice when you want concentrated heat in a specific spot or have limited wall space. They're also commonly used as supplemental heaters in hybrid sauna builds.

Voltage Options

120V Panels — Plug into a standard household outlet. Best for smaller builds (closet conversions, 1–2 person saunas) or situations where running a dedicated circuit isn't practical. Our 120V panel packages include a mechanical controller with timer and cover up to 120 cubic feet. See our 120V sauna heater guide for details.

240V Panels — For larger builds that need more total wattage. Requires a dedicated circuit installed by a licensed electrician. Pair with a digital controller for precise temperature and timer settings. Check our electrical code guide for wiring requirements.

Individual Panels vs. Complete Packages

Individual 300W panels are available in both 120V and 240V versions. Buy as many as your space requires and pair with your own controller.

Complete panel packages include multiple panels plus a controller, ready to wire and install. These are the easiest path if you're building from scratch — just mount the panels, connect the controller, and plug in (120V) or have an electrician wire the circuit (240V). Packages are available in configurations from 2 panels up to 6+ panels covering rooms up to 120 cubic feet.

Use the Infrared Panel Calculator to determine exactly how many panels and what total wattage you need for your room size.

Common Uses for Infrared Heater Panels

DIY infrared sauna builds — Converting a closet, bathroom, shed, or spare room into an infrared sauna is one of the most popular DIY wellness projects. Our panels, paired with sauna-grade wood for walls and benches, give you everything you need for the heating side. See our full step-by-step DIY infrared sauna guide.

Adding infrared to a traditional sauna — Many sauna owners install infrared panels alongside their traditional electric heater to create a hybrid sauna. This lets you switch between traditional high-heat sessions and gentler infrared sessions, or run both simultaneously.

Replacement panels — If the heater panels in your existing infrared sauna have failed or lost output, individual panels can be swapped in without replacing the entire unit.

Adding red light therapy — Infrared panels pair well with red light therapy panels for saunas for combined benefits. Learn more in our guide on adding red light therapy to your sauna.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many infrared panels do I need?

It depends on your room's cubic footage and how much of the wall/ceiling area you want to cover. As a general rule, plan for about 100 watts per 10 cubic feet. A small 3' x 4' x 7' closet conversion (84 cu. ft.) typically needs 3–4 panels. Our infrared panel calculator gives you an exact number based on your room dimensions.

Can I plug infrared panels into a regular outlet?

Yes, if you use 120V panels. A standard 15A or 20A household circuit can handle up to about 4–6 panels depending on total wattage. For larger builds with more panels, you'll need 240V panels on a dedicated circuit.

What's the difference between infrared panels and a traditional sauna heater?

Traditional electric heaters (like a Harvia or HUUM) heat rocks that radiate warmth into the air, bringing room temperatures to 150–195°F. Infrared panels emit light that heats your body directly at lower air temperatures (120–150°F), with faster heat-up times and lower energy consumption. There are no rocks and no steam with infrared. For a deeper comparison, read our guide on how different sauna heaters work.

Carbon fiber or ceramic — which should I choose?

Carbon fiber is the better all-around choice for most DIY builds. It distributes heat more evenly across a larger surface area, runs cooler to the touch, and lasts longer. Ceramic is better when you need intense, focused heat from a smaller panel or are supplementing an existing heater. Most home infrared sauna builds use carbon fiber.

Do I need a controller?

Yes. A controller regulates temperature and includes a timer for safety. Our panel packages come with a controller included. If you're buying individual panels, add a mechanical controller (120V) or digital controller (240V) to your order.

Learn More

Our Sauna Heater Learning Center covers how infrared heaters work, sizing charts, and installation best practices. For a complete DIY walkthrough, see our build your own infrared sauna guide. Questions? Call or text us at (360) 233-2867.

Shop more: Electric Sauna Heaters · Wood-Burning Stoves · All Sauna Heaters · Infrared Saunas · Red Light Panels for Saunas · Sauna Wood