Steam
Steam or "traditional" heating (found on our Custom and Outdoor series) uses an electrical element to produce steam from the combination of heated rocks and water. Rocks efficiently store heat and provide an excellent surface for the release of steam when water is applied. By using rocks in the entire heater, the Cal Heat design ensures an even distribution of heat and steam for a more comfortable and effective sauna experience. Our steam saunas are designed to maximize airflow and to ensure fast, effective and efficient heat distribution.
Infrared
Infrared or "Far Infrared" heating (found on our Infrared Series) uses a wavelength of energy found in sunlight's invisible spectrum to provide soothing heat. In an infrared sauna, the heat passes through the skin, warms the body through molecular vibration and promotes perspiration. Infrared saunas are generally much cooler than steam saunas because the body absorbs most of the wavelengths. While steam saunas regularly reach temperatures from 140º to 190º, infrared saunas provide many of the same health benefits of traditional steam saunas but only raise the indoor temperature from 105º to 140º. The benefits of an infrared sauna are felt quickly due to the relatively short amount of time needed to preheat.

Carbon Fiber
Carbon Fiber heating (found on our Carbon Fiber Series) operates similarly to infrared heating. In a Carbon Fiber sauna, the wavelength is optimized to more deeply diffuse through the skin and heat the body. The human body is made up primarily of carbon and water, so the spectrum from a carbon fiber heater is easier for the body to absorb. Carbon fiber heaters emit the most even and direct deep penetrating heat, enhancing detoxification, pain relief and increasing blood flow. Also, lower surface temperatures of the carbon fiber heater and lower indoor temperatures from 100º to 125º make this type of sauna both extremely comfortable and effective.