Should you repair your old infrared sauna?
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got an older infrared sauna that’s no longer working as it should. Maybe the heaters don’t get as hot as they used to. Maybe the control panel flickers. Maybe the manufacturer no longer answers the phone. Whatever the case, it’s a fair question: Should you try to repair it, or is it time to move on?
We get this question all the time, and while the answer depends on your specific setup, here’s what you need to consider before diving into a repair.
Most older saunas—especially prefab units from companies that no longer exist—can be extremely difficult to repair.
Heater Compatibility Issues
There are three main types of heaters used in infrared saunas: carbon fiber panels, ceramic rod heaters, and halogen (or so-called “full spectrum”) tube heaters. Each type runs on specific voltage and resistance levels—and none of them are universal.
Trying to wire old heaters to a modern power supply could underheat the room, blow a fuse, or even create a fire risk.
And that’s assuming the heater brand is even still available. If it’s not, you’re stuck trying to retrofit mismatched parts from different manufacturers.
Costs Add Up Quickly
At first glance, repairing might seem cheaper than starting from scratch. But once you account for everything, it usually doesn’t pencil out:
Power supply (required): $2,500
Electrician to install: $400–$1,200
Replacement heaters: $100–$400 each
Time spent troubleshooting + compatibility risk
Total cost can easily approach or exceed the price of a new sauna—with no guarantee it’ll work well.
You’ll Need a Licensed Electrician
For liability and safety reasons, we always require that our power supplies be installed by a licensed electrician.
Wiring your own sauna—especially a retrofitted one—is never recommended and may violate local codes.
If you’re not comfortable hiring an electrician, this path likely isn’t right for you.
Liability Considerations
If we didn’t build your sauna, we can’t guarantee its safety. We don’t know how it was wired, what materials were used, or what condition it’s in internally. So before we can provide a replacement power supply:
You’ll need to sign a written liability release.
That’s standard protocol for retrofits like this. It protects both sides from risk and ensures full transparency.
What If the Original Company Is Gone?
This is more common than people think. Many infrared sauna companies from the early 2000s and 2010s have gone out of business. If your sauna came from one of them, chances are:
You won’t find specs or documentation
You won’t be able to source matching parts
No one will be available to help you troubleshoot
In these cases, repairs become near impossible—and you’re better off starting clean.
So… Should You Repair It?
In rare cases, yes—but only if:
Your heaters are still in good condition and we confirm compatibility
You’re okay hiring an electrician
You’re fine signing a liability waiver
You understand the full cost involved
Otherwise, it may be time to look at a new build—something that’s safer, performs better, and is covered by a long-term warranty.
We’re happy to help you evaluate your setup.
Send us photos of your heaters, the control box, and any model information you can find. We’ll take a look and let you know what’s possible.
If repair isn’t feasible, we can design a new custom sauna built just for you.
