HEKLA SAUNAS · POSH SPAS GUIDE
Prepare your home for a HEKLA sauna.
A good sauna installation starts before delivery. The model determines the floor/base, access, electrical supply and heater work required.
Infrared indoor cabins
The HEKLA Infrared 100, 130 and 160 are quick-build indoor cabins. Current UK models use a standard 13A plug, so they do not need a dedicated high-current sauna heater circuit. You still need a sound, level floor, suitable socket position, ventilation around the cabin and a clear route for the panels.
Indoor traditional cabins
Traditional 160, 210, 210x and 220 models use 6–9 kW electric heaters. These must be correctly hardwired by a qualified electrician to a circuit sized and protected for the chosen equipment. The heater, controls and lighting should be planned before final positioning.
Outdoor base
Cube, Barrel and Cabin saunas need a permanent level base. A concrete pad is the simplest benchmark. Reinforced paving can also work when constructed over a suitable sub-base. Do not install directly on grass, soil, loose gravel or an unstable deck.
Access and working space
Plan a route at least wide enough for large flat panels and components, with gates, fences, planting and roof overhangs considered. HEKLA guidance calls for around one metre of clear space around outdoor models during assembly.
Electric outdoor heaters
Harvia Cilindro/The Wall electric heaters require a qualified electrician. Plan the cable route before build day. The installer/electrician will need to coordinate heater connection, controls, lighting and final electrical certification.
Wood-fired heating
Compatible outdoor models can use the Harvia Linear 18. A wood stove removes the large electric heater load, but introduces flue, combustible-clearance, fuel storage and fire-safety considerations. Site planning matters just as much as with an electric heater.
Planning permission
Many garden sauna projects may be permitted development in England, but height, position, curtilage, listed buildings, conservation areas and local restrictions can change the answer. Always check the rules applying to the specific property before work begins.
