Outdoor Infrared Sauna Guide

Expert Tips for Safe Outdoor Setup, Power Requirements, and Weatherproofing

Having your sauna outside adds a level of relaxation and freedom that an indoor setup simply can’t match. There’s something grounding about stepping into a warm sauna surrounded by nature — hearing the rain tapping the roof, birds chirping in the morning, or a cool breeze moving through the trees.

For years, I had my sauna set up outdoors, and it was an experience that made me feel completely disconnected from everyday noise and stress. Now that mine sits in the garage, it’s just not the same.

But before you move your sauna outdoors, there are a few important things to consider.

Choosing the Right Sauna for Outdoor Use

So, can you put your sauna outside?

It depends entirely on the sauna’s design, your local climate, and how it’s protected from the elements. You can place an indoor sauna outdoors, but only under certain conditions — mainly if your region has mild weather and you can fully cover it.

In cold climates like the Northeast or Midwest, you’ll need a sauna specifically built for outdoor use. Outdoor infrared saunas are insulated and equipped with higher-wattage heaters per cubic foot so they can reach optimal temperatures even in freezing conditions.

Key takeaway:

If your sauna needs a cover to survive outside, it’s not a true outdoor sauna.

The #1 Cause of Sauna Damage: The Sun

Most people think rain, snow, or wind are the biggest threats to a sauna — but the real enemy is UV radiation from the sun.

I learned this firsthand watching my parents’ two-person sauna deteriorate on their deck. When the cover wasn’t zipped properly, sunlight faded the cedar, cracked the panels, and eventually caused leaks.

UV rays dry out wood fibers, leading to fading, warping, and water penetration. This process happens with any type of wood left unprotected in direct sunlight.

To prevent this:

Keep your sauna out of direct sunlight when possible.
Use a heavy-duty, light-colored canvas cover (avoid dark colors that absorb heat).

Pro tip:

Beige or taupe covers reflect heat and protect against fading, while darker covers accelerate UV damage.

Essential Outdoor Sauna Considerations

Before setting up your sauna outdoors, take time to review a few key factors:

Warranty coverage — Many indoor saunas void their warranty if used outdoors.
Power requirements — Outdoor saunas often require 240V power connections.
Heater type — Weak carbon heaters struggle in cold weather; stronger halogen or full-spectrum heaters perform better.
Exposure to elements — Sun, snow, and moisture all affect your sauna’s longevity.

At SaunaCloud®, we’ve installed hundreds of saunas outdoors and learned exactly what works — and what doesn’t.

Understanding Warranty Limitations

Most infrared saunas come with lifetime warranties — but read the fine print carefully. Many manufacturers include a clause voiding the warranty if the sauna is stored outside, even under a cover.

At SaunaCloud®, we take a more flexible approach:

If you use the canvas cover we provide, your lifetime warranty remains valid.
Our Outdoor Sanctuary Series is purpose-built for exterior placement and includes a 5-year warranty on outdoor parts plus lifetime coverage on indoor components.

Bottom line:

Always confirm your warranty terms in writing before moving your sauna outdoors.

Protecting Against UV, Rain, and Snow

Even if your sauna is weather-rated, consistent protection is key.

Rain and snow: Always zip your cover securely before storms. Pools of water on the roof can lead to swelling or leaks.
Sunlight: Use a UV-resistant cover or position your sauna under partial shade.
Snow accumulation: Clear it off regularly to avoid excessive roof load or moisture seepage.

Standing water near the base can cause mold or wood warping over time. Place your sauna on a drainable, level surface and ensure water runoff flows away from it.

Power and Electrical Setup

Every SaunaCloud® infrared sauna requires at least a 120V outlet, which differs from a standard 110V plug.

Here’s the difference:

110V plug: Two vertical prongs.
120V plug: Three-prong setup (one horizontal, one vertical, one ground).

If your home doesn’t have a 120V outlet outdoors, you’ll need an electrician to install one.

For larger or commercial-grade outdoor saunas, you’ll need a dedicated 240V connection, as these saunas draw significantly more power for high-performance heaters.

Power Supply Location and Moisture Protection

Saunas typically house their power supply either in the roof or beneath the bench. Each configuration requires different protection:

Roof-mounted supplies: Must be shielded from moisture, snow buildup, and melting ice. If water penetrates, it can damage electrical systems or stereos.
Under-bench supplies: Safer from snow but still require airflow and drainage clearance.

Safety note:

Always check cord length — most saunas have a 6–8 ft cable. Ensure it safely reaches the outlet without extension cords.

Heater Selection: Don’t Use Carbon Heaters Outdoors

Here’s one of the most important lessons:

Do not use a pure carbon heater sauna outdoors.

When temperatures drop below freezing, the entire sauna — including the wood, wiring, thermostat, and control panels — freezes solid. Carbon heaters max out around 140°F, meaning they can’t generate enough heat to thaw and warm the space.

For outdoor use, choose halogen or full-spectrum heaters (ideally 350–500 watts each). These reach up to 775°F, allowing the sauna to heat quickly even in winter.

Weight, Surface, and Placement Tips

Most saunas weigh 500–1,000 pounds and occupy at least 4′ x 4′. Always confirm that your deck or patio can support that load.

Other placement tips:

Allow 2–3 feet of clearance around your sauna for airflow and runoff.
Avoid areas prone to flooding — elevate your sauna with cinder blocks or a platform if necessary.
Keep the foundation level and moisture-free.

Why Buy an Outdoor-Rated Infrared Sauna

If you’re planning to keep your sauna outdoors permanently, it’s best to invest in a model built for the elements.

At SaunaCloud®, our Outdoor Sanctuary Series is designed to last:

Composite exterior (similar to Trex® decking) that won’t fade, leak, or crack.
1,000-pound frame engineered to withstand high winds and extreme weather.
Four 500-watt full-spectrum heaters for rapid heating in any climate.