The therapeutic value of any far infrared sauna is determined by the quantity of far infrared being emitted from the heater. While any far infrared sauna is considered to be beneficial, there are certainly variables in exposure quality. With so many options available commercially in spas, health clubs and hot yoga studios, it makes sense to inquire about the quality and quantity of far infrared light you are being exposed to. Always consult with your doctor before using any far infrared sauna to insure personal safety.
Ideal Levels of Far Infrared Emission
Because most far infrared heating elements for saunas emit less than 50 percent total far infrared heat and some even less with only 10 percent of their total heat being far infrared, the real task is finding a quality far infrared sauna that has heaters that will emit over 90 percent of total heat in far infrared form, which will offer you the highest level of therapeutic value.
Less Bang for Your Buck
A cheap option in far infrared heating for saunas is the plastic carbon sheet heater. While the price may seem appealing, its important to understand that plastic emits toxic chemicals and is not an effective emission material with an output of only 10 percent far infrared heat. Metal Rod, Ceramic Coated Metal Rod and Steel Incoloy are also inexpensive options emitting about 40 to 50 percent far infrared, making them certainly more effective but still below ideal therapeutic levels.
Considering Power
Sand Filled Ceramic Tub Emitters have 94 percent far infrared emissions and are effective heat conductors. The heat, created through means of a thin wire, is transferred to sand and ceramic. This emitter has substantially higher wattage than required for most sauna demands and can be quite expensive to run on a regular basis.
Holding Heat with Ceramic
Solid Ceramic Flat Plate Concave Emitters are solid ceramic, making them vulnerable to breakage, but this emitter is able to emit 96 percent far infrared heat with about 160 watts for a low surface temperature that provides an ideal wavelength, making this type of emitter an effective and energy-friendly option for optimal therapeutic sauna use.
New Technology
New technology and increased consumer demand allow some far infrared carbon panels to offer increased affordability as well as effectiveness through the combination of ceramic with an evenly distributed carbon panel applied as a liquid. After it is allowed to dry, the panels are sealed by a heat lamination process preventing toxic emission while offering beneficial wavelengths and infrared emissions.
References
- "Bikram Yoga: The Guru Behind Hot Yoga Shows the Way to Radiant Health and Personal Fulfillment "; Bikram Choudhury; 2009
- "Hot Yoga: Energising, Rejuvenating, Healing";Marilyn Barnett; 2006
- "Some Like It Hot: The Sauna, Its Lore & Stories"; Nikki Rajala; 2008
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