Clearlight Infrared Sauna Overview

Yes, all Clearlight Infrared Sauna™ models can be used outside with our optional water-proof cover. Because we use high-pressure bindings and precision hand craftsmanship, our sauna cabinetry can endure outdoor humidity and dryness as long as you protect it with our water-proof cover.
Infrared saunas are designed to heat the human body, not the air. Only about 20% of the heat from our heaters goes to heat the air. Because of this, if you live in a place where the temperature gets below 40° F, we don’t recommend putting the sauna outside. It will take much longer for the cabin to warm up and it will not get as hot. Please consult one of our infrared sauna specialists for more information about putting your sauna outside.

Yes, our Clearlight saunas are safe for daily use for most people. Our infrared saunas operate at comfortable temperatures of 115-125°F, which is much lower than traditional saunas, making them gentle enough for frequent sessions. We've designed our saunas with industry-leading ultra-low EMF/ELF shielding that's independently tested and certified, ensuring safe exposure levels. We also use only non-toxic, eco-certified materials in construction. However, it's important to stay properly hydrated before and after each session. If you're new to sauna use, we recommend starting with a few sessions per week and gradually increasing frequency. Always consult with your doctor before beginning daily sauna use, especially if you're pregnant, have heart conditions, or other medical concerns.

Choosing the right sauna depends on your space, budget, and wellness goals. Consider how many people will use it—we offer 1-person models for compact spaces up to 5-person saunas for families or shared use. Think about whether you want far infrared only (our Premier line) or full spectrum infrared that includes near, mid, and far infrared (our Sanctuary line) for enhanced therapeutic benefits. If you're placing it outdoors, explore our Sanctuary Outdoor models built specifically for weather resistance. Our sauna specialists are here to help you find the perfect fit—call us at 1-800-798-1779 to discuss your needs, available space, electrical setup, and budget. We'll guide you through the options and help you select the model that's best for your lifestyle and wellness journey.

The recommended session time is 20-45 minutes, depending on your personal preference and comfort level. If you're new to infrared saunas, start with shorter sessions of 15-20 minutes and gradually increase the time as your body adapts. Some people prefer longer sessions while others find 20-30 minutes is perfect for them. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly, as there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after your session. Most regular users find that 3-5 sessions per week provides optimal health benefits.

Clearlight saunas are compact and designed to fit in most homes. Space requirements vary by model size:

1-Person Saunas:

• Premier IS-1: 40"W x 44"D x 76"H
• Sanctuary 1: 43"W x 48"D x 77"H

2-Person Saunas:

• Sanctuary 2: 52"W x 48"D x 77"H

3-Person Saunas:

• Premier IS-3: 61"W x 44"D x 76"H
• Sanctuary 3: 71"W x 48"D x 77"H

Clearance Requirements:

• Leave 2 inches of clearance around all sides when installing in an enclosed space
• Allow minimum 12 inches (300mm) clearance above the roof
• Ensure access to the power outlet for hard resets
• Total space needed = sauna dimensions + 4 inches added to width and depth

Installation Notes:

• Saunas are freestanding units that should not be built into structures
• Can be placed on any level, flat surface
• Assembly takes 1-3 hours with two people
• No special tools required except a screwdriver for the door handle
• Professional installation service is available in some areas

The compact design makes them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, basements, garages, or dedicated wellness rooms.

Electrical requirements vary by model size. Smaller Clearlight saunas plug into standard household outlets, while larger models need upgraded circuits.

View Electrical Requirements for each sauna here. 

With Add-ons: If you add optional upgrades like the Full Spectrum door heater or Red Light Therapy tower, your electrical requirements may increase (typically from 15-amp to 20-amp or 20-amp to 30-amp).

Important Notes:

• Check your specific model's electrical specs before delivery
• Some models may require a licensed electrician to install the proper circuit
• Confirm requirements with a certified electrician to ensure your home can accommodate your chosen model
• Operating costs are low—approximately 20-25 cents per session

Every Clearlight sauna comes equipped with essential features:

Standard Features:

• True Wave heaters: Patented carbon-ceramic infrared heaters positioned on all walls (back, sides, under bench, floor, and calves) for 360-degree heat coverage
• Bluetooth audio system: Built-in high-performance Nakamichi speakers for streaming music
• Chromotherapy lighting: Color light therapy with LED lights (Premier models include 36 LEDs; Sanctuary models feature advanced 96 LED system)
• Digital control panel: Easy temperature and time controls with Reservation Mode to pre-set sauna up to 36 hours in advance
• Smartphone app control (Sanctuary models): Remote operation via iOS/Android app
• Built-in charging station: Convenient device charging during sessions
• Door handle/smartphone cradle: Patent-pending design doubles as a phone holder
• Ultra-low EMF/ELF shielding: Industry-leading electromagnetic field protection
• 8mm tempered glass: Thick, furniture-grade glass panels and ceiling
• Lifetime Residential Warranty: Comprehensive coverage on heaters, controls, electrical, and wood for residential use
• Free delivery: Included for most residential locations

Optional Add-ons Available:

• Red Light Therapy Tower
• Full Spectrum door heater upgrade
• Halotherapy (salt therapy) system
• Vibrational Resonance Therapy
• Aromatherapy diffuser
• Custom bench cushions

Infrared saunas are actually more affordable than traditional saunas despite their advanced technology:

Infrared Saunas: $5,000 - $9,000 Traditional Saunas: $6,000 - $11,000

The final cost depends on several factors:

• Size: 1-person models start at the lower range; 5-person models at the higher end
• Wood type: Basswood and mahogany pricing varies
• Features: Chromotherapy, halotherapy, red light therapy, and Bluetooth audio systems
• Model line: Premier™ (far infrared) vs. Sanctuary™ (full spectrum)

Operating Costs: Infrared saunas are remarkably economical to run—approximately 20-25 cents per session. The lower operating temperature (115-130°F vs. 170-200°F for traditional) and faster heat-up time (10-15 minutes vs. 30-45 minutes) make them significantly more energy-efficient.

When you factor in the Limited Lifetime Warranty, lower operating costs, and superior therapeutic benefits, Clearlight saunas represent exceptional long-term value for your wellness investment.

While research into electromagnetic fields (EMF) continues, some health effects have been linked to prolonged EMF exposure, including:

• Memory loss and difficulty concentrating
• Depression and irritability
• Loss of energy and chronic fatigue
• Weakened immune system
• Persistent headaches

The CDC recommends maximum EMF exposure of 3 milligauss (mg). Given these potential concerns, Dr. Raleigh Duncan, Clearlight's founder, pioneered EMF-canceling technology to ensure your sauna sessions promote wellness without compromise. Our True Wave® heaters measure less than 1mg when tested directly on the heater—well below safety thresholds and 20-50 times lower than many competitors.

Because infrared saunas provide dry heat, maintenance is remarkably simple. You will have what you need at home, but Clearlight sauna cleaning and care products are also available.

After Every Use:

• Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth
• Clean the sauna bench, floor, walls, and heater surfaces
• Leave the door slightly open to air out

Every Two Weeks:

• Perform a more thorough cleaning using a sauna-specific cleaning solution
• Check for any perspiration stains and address them promptly
• Inspect wood surfaces for any needed attention

As Needed:

• Mahogany and basswood can be lightly sanded inside the sauna to remove stubborn perspiration stains
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup

This minimal maintenance routine will help prolong your sauna's life and maintain its beautiful appearance. For larger concerns beyond normal wear and tear, additional infrared sauna service and support may be available through our customer care team.

Every Clearlight sauna undergoes our rigorous 48-point Quality Control inspection before leaving the factory. This comprehensive process ensures:

• Dual-level approval: Two separate quality control teams inspect and approve each sauna
• Full testing: Every unit is completely assembled and tested at the factory before being disassembled for shipping
• ETL and CE certification: We meet strict international safety and quality standards, binding us to provide consistently high-quality products
• Non-toxic materials: We use only non-toxic glues and eco-certified woods
• Hand-crafted details: Panels are hand-sanded, handles and trim are handcrafted, and tongue-and-groove wood is color-matched for beauty and precision
• Sustainable sourcing: Our eco-certified woods meet three sustainability standards as part of our green initiative

This attention to detail is why we're confident offering a Limited Lifetime Warranty—something few competitors can match.

While most infrared sauna companies use adapted industrial heaters in wooden cabins, Clearlight manufactures proprietary heater technology specifically engineered for the human body:

Innovative Heating Technology:

• True Wave® combination carbon/ceramic heaters deliver both high output AND long therapeutic wavelengths
• Industry's first low EMF carbon-based heaters (under 1mg vs. competitors at 20-50mg)
• Only brand offering true low ELF technology across all Premier™ and Sanctuary™ models
• Genuine full spectrum heaters delivering over 1,000 watts of near, mid, and far infrared simultaneously

Premium Construction:

• Eco-certified grade "A" clear mahogany or basswood
• Hand-sanded panels with close-grain wood selection
• High-pressure bindings and precision craftsmanship for outdoor durability
• 48-point quality control with dual-level approval

Industry Leadership:

• 28+ years of manufacturing experience
• 70,000+ satisfied customers worldwide
• Doctor-designed by Dr. Raleigh Duncan
• Clinically proven results in UCSF and cardiovascular research
• Limited Lifetime Warranty (5 years commercial)

With Clearlight, you're not just buying a sauna—you're investing in three decades of innovation, clinical research, and manufacturing excellence.

Assembly typically takes 1-3 hours with two people and requires only a screwdriver for the door handle—no special tools needed. Our customers consistently report that assembly is surprisingly simple thanks to our ingenious design. As one customer from Oregon shared: "The sauna was an absolute dream to put together. It took us longer to unpack all the pieces and carry them around the house than it did to assemble." The precision engineering means panels fit together seamlessly, and our detailed instructions guide you through every step. Professional installation service is also available in some areas if you prefer a hands-off approach.

When shopping for an infrared sauna, watch for these red flags that indicate poor construction and potentially unsafe materials:

Smell Test:

• Any noxious or chemical odors from toxic glues used in manufacturing
• Strong wood smells that indicate untreated or improperly cured materials
• Off-gassing from low-grade woods like pine or plywood

Touch Test:

• Wood that hasn't been finished or sanded properly—rough to the touch when you run your hand over it
• Visible gaps or poor fitting between panels
• Uneven surfaces or exposed splinters

Material Quality:

• Use of resinous woods (pine, plywood) that can emit toxins or unpleasant odors when heated
• Lack of eco-certification or transparency about glue types
• Suspiciously low prices that indicate shortcuts in materials or construction

Safety Standards:

• Substandard wiring and electrical components
• No ETL or CE certification
• Missing EMF/ELF testing or disclosure
• Warranties of 7 years or less (vs. Clearlight's Limited Lifetime Warranty)

As overseas manufacturing expanded, many upstart companies began selling "wooden boxes with heaters"—saunas with little understanding of therapeutic infrared benefits. These manufacturers cut corners on materials, construction, and safety. Always inspect the sauna carefully, ask about certifications, and choose brands with decades of experience and medical expertise backing their designs.

Clearlight's Limited Lifetime Warranty for residential use covers the entire sauna for as long as you own it, including:

• Wood cabin and all structural components
• True Wave® infrared heaters (both far infrared and full spectrum)
• Control panels and all electrical components
• Audio system and Bluetooth components
• Chromotherapy lighting systems

Coverage Details:

• Parts: Covered for lifetime
• Shipping: Covered for lifetime
• Labor: Not included for lifetime (though covered for initial warranty period)

The sauna is warranted to be free from manufacturer defects, meaning if anything goes wrong due to how we built it, we'll make it right. This comprehensive coverage reflects our confidence in our 48-point quality control process and premium materials.

For commercial installations, saunas are covered by our complete 5-year warranty.

Most competitors offer only 7-year warranties or less. After year 8, they're not obligated to provide parts. Our lifetime commitment means you're protected for decades, not just a few years.

Not exactly—and that's one of the things that makes your sauna special. Because we use genuine, furniture-grade natural wood, every piece of mahogany and basswood has its own unique grain pattern, texture, and color variation. No two trees are identical, which means no two saunas are identical either.

Additionally, wood tones can appear differently depending on lighting conditions and the settings of your computer, tablet, or phone screen. As a result, the color you see online may vary slightly from the wood you receive.

These natural variations are not defects—they are a hallmark of authentic wood craftsmanship. The distinctive grain patterns and rich color variations contribute to the beauty, character, and uniqueness of your sauna, making it truly one of a kind.