When you think of traditional saunas, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the intense heat, especially if you just walked in after someone poor water over sauna stones. But what about the stones that are used to create that heat? Sauna stones play a major role in the overall experience, and it's a good idea to understand how they work to get the most out of your sauna. This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about sauna stones!
What Are Sauna Stones?
Sauna stones are large, heated rocks placed in the sauna to create heat. The stones are usually granite, lava, or soapstone and weigh anywhere from 50 to 300 pounds. When the stones are heated, they emit infrared radiation that penetrates the body, causing you to sweat.
Most sauna stones are made of granite, although other types of rocks can also be used. Igneous rocks like granite and basalt are the best rocks to use because they can withstand high temperatures without breaking down. The type of rock you use is not as important as ensuring it's heat-resistant.
Sauna stones are usually smooth but can also be rough or have a textured surface. Sedimentary rocks like limestone or sandstone are not ideal because they can break down at high temperatures and release harmful toxins into the air. Metamorphic stones like marble or slate are also unsuitable because they can be slippery and dangerous.
Best Type Of Sauna Stones
If you are looking for the best type of sauna stone, then look no further than lava rocks. Lava rocks are made from solidified lava, which is an igneous rock. Lava rocks are very porous, so they absorb and radiate heat well. This makes them ideal for use in saunas.
Another good option for sauna stones is basalt rocks. Basalt is a volcanic rock that is also very porous and has excellent heat retention properties. Basalt stones are often used in professional saunas because of their superior quality.
How Do Sauna Stones Work?
Sauna stones work by heating up and emitting infrared radiation. This radiation penetrates the body, causing you to sweat. The heat from the rocks also makes the air in the sauna feel hotter, which can help to open up your pores and release toxins from your skin.
There are many benefits to using sauna stones in your sauna:
- They help to create an intense heat that can penetrate deep into your muscles and joints, providing relief from pain and stiffness.
- The heat from the stones can help open up your skin and release toxins from your skin.
- Spending time in a sauna can improve circulation and boost your immune system.
How Are Sauna Stones Heated?
Stones sauna rocks are heated in a fire, much like a campfire. The stones are placed in the fire and heated until they are red hot. Once sufficiently heated, the rocks are placed in the sauna stove to radiate heat. Hot rocks can also be placed in a metal pan or wire basket on the sauna stove.
The heat from the sauna stones is intense and can cause severe burns if you're not careful. It's important to ensure that the area around the sauna stove is clear of flammable materials before heating the stones. Once the rocks are in the furnace, keeping an eye on them is essential to ensure they don't overheat and start a fire.
If you're using an electric heater, there's no need to worry about heating the stones. The heater will do all of the work for you. However, you'll still need to be careful around the stove and ensure it's clear of flammable materials.
How to Use Sauna Stones
If you are interested in using sauna stones, you should keep a few things in mind:
- Ensure that the stones are placed in an area where they will not come into contact with flammable materials.
- Allow the rocks to cool down before touching or moving them around.
- Always use caution when handling hot stones and never leave them unattended.
- When you water on the rocks, it will hiss and steam, so be careful not to get too close.
How Often Do Sauna Heater Stones Need Replacing?
Sauna stones should be replaced every two to three years. This will ensure that your sauna heater rocks continue to operate effectively and efficiently. Sauna stones can be purchased from most sauna retailers or online.
When replacing sauna rocks, following the manufacturer's instructions is essential. Sauna heaters work with specific rocks, so using the wrong type of rock could damage your heater.
Please consult a qualified sauna technician or retailer if you have any questions about how often to replace your sauna heater stones or what type of rocks to use.
How Can I Check My Sauna Rocks Are Safe?
If you're unsure whether your sauna stones are safe, there are a few things you can do to check:
- Look for any cracks or fissures in the good sauna stones. If there are any, it's best to replace the best sauna rocks as they could break and cause injury.
- Check the color of the stone. If it's discolored or has changed color significantly, it's best to replace it.
- If you have any doubts, consult a sauna expert before using the stones.
How Long Do Sauna Stones Last?
Sauna stones are a great way to enjoy the positives of a sauna without having to worry about the cost or maintenance of a traditional sauna. However, like any other heating element, they will eventually need to be replaced. Sauna stones typically last for around five years with proper care and maintenance. If you notice your own sauna rocks are starting to crack or chip, it's time to replace it. Sauna stones are inexpensive, so there's no need to wait until they're completely worn out before replacing them.
Final Words
Sauna stones are crucial to any sauna, and understanding how they work is essential to having a great experience. The stones heat up quickly and retain heat very well, making them ideal for creating a hot, steamy environment. When appropriately used, sauna stones can help you relax, detoxify your body, and improve your overall health.
So there you have it! Sauna stones are essential to any sauna, and knowing how they work can help you get the most out of your experience. Follow the tips above to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time collecting sauna stones.
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