Infrared Sauna Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Fixes
Infrared saunas are designed to be reliable, low-maintenance wellness tools, but like any electrical product, occasional issues can arise. Most problems are minor and can be resolved without professional repair if users understand what to look for. At WizziSaunas, many customer questions come not from serious malfunctions but from simple misunderstandings about how infrared saunas work. Learning basic troubleshooting not only saves time but also helps users feel more confident and comfortable with their sauna investment.
When the Sauna Doesn’t Heat Up as Expected
One of the most common concerns users report is that the sauna doesn’t feel hot enough, especially during the first few uses. A customer from California once contacted WizziSaunas after installing her new infrared sauna, worried that something was wrong because the temperature seemed lower than expected. After a brief conversation, it became clear that she was comparing infrared heat to a traditional steam sauna, which feels hot mainly because of heated air.
Infrared saunas work differently. They heat the body directly rather than the surrounding air, so the cabin temperature may feel mild even though the infrared panels are working properly. In many cases, the solution is simply to allow a few extra minutes for warm-up and focus on how the heat feels on the skin and muscles rather than the air temperature. Checking that the temperature setting is adjusted correctly and confirming that all heating panels are activated usually resolves this issue quickly.
Power and Control Panel Issues
Another frequent issue involves power or control panel operation. If the sauna does not turn on at all, the first step is to check the power source. Many infrared saunas are designed to operate on standard household outlets, but loose plugs, tripped breakers, or overloaded circuits can prevent proper operation.
One WizziSaunas distributor shared a story about a showroom unit that suddenly stopped powering on during a customer visit. The problem turned out to be a power strip shared with several other devices, which caused an overload. Once the sauna was plugged directly into the wall outlet, it functioned perfectly. For control panel issues, restarting the system by turning the sauna off and unplugging it for a few minutes often resets the electronics. If the display lights up but buttons don’t respond, ensuring that cables connecting the control panel are securely attached can solve the problem.
Uneven Heating or Panels Not Working
Sometimes users notice that one side of the sauna feels warmer than the other, or that a specific panel does not seem to heat properly. This can be concerning, but the cause is often simple. Infrared panels are controlled individually, and a loose connection or setting adjustment can affect performance.
At WizziSaunas, we advise users to inspect panel connections during installation and ensure that all wiring is securely in place. It’s also important to remember that different panels may emit heat at slightly different intensities depending on their position. For example, back panels often feel stronger than side panels because they are closer to large muscle groups. If a panel truly fails to warm up, checking internal connections or contacting customer support for a replacement part is usually sufficient, as modular designs make repairs straightforward.
Unusual Smells During Initial Use
New infrared sauna owners sometimes report a mild smell during the first few sessions. This is normal and typically caused by the heating of new wood materials, adhesives, or protective finishes. A family who recently installed a WizziSaunas unit in their basement initially worried about a faint wood-like odor, but it disappeared after several sessions with proper ventilation.
To minimize this issue, it’s recommended to leave the sauna door slightly open during the first few heating cycles and ensure good airflow in the room. Running the sauna empty for one or two sessions can also help accelerate the natural “break-in” process.
Addressing Noise and Small Vibrations
Infrared saunas are generally quiet, but occasional clicking sounds or faint vibrations may occur as the wood expands and contracts with heat. This is a natural characteristic of solid wood construction and not a sign of malfunction. Ensuring the sauna is placed on a level surface and that all panels are properly aligned can reduce unnecessary noise.
When to Seek Professional Support
While most issues can be solved with basic troubleshooting, some situations require professional assistance for infrared sauna troubleshooting. Persistent power failures, damaged wiring, or error codes on the control panel should be handled by experienced technicians. WizziSaunas provides technical support and clear documentation to help customers resolve issues efficiently and safely.
Conclusion: Confidence Through Understanding
Infrared sauna troubleshooting doesn’t have to be stressful. Most common issues are minor and easily resolved with a little knowledge and patience. By understanding how infrared technology works and knowing what to check first, users can enjoy consistent performance and long-term satisfaction. Choosing a reliable manufacturer like WizziSaunas ensures not only high-quality products but also dependable support when it’s needed most.