How-To Guides

Portable Infrared Sauna Setup Guide: Step-by-Step Installation & Instructions

By Mustafa Alomari September 4, 2025 5 min read

Key Points

It might seem scary to set up your portable infrared sauna at first, but it’s actually pretty easy when you break it down into simple steps. I’ve helped hundreds of wellness lovers turn their homes into personal spas with these portable units. Good Health Saunas has made these units with easy installation in mind, so you can start enjoying the therapeutic benefits sooner than you might think.

Portable infrared saunas are a fantastic option because they are so easy to set up. You don’t need to hire a professional or make any major changes to your home. All you need are some common household tools and a bit of time—about 30 to 60 minutes—and you’ll have your own personal spa. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your infrared sauna set up and ready to go.

Quick Overview of the Setup Guide

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand what sets portable infrared saunas apart from traditional ones. Instead of heating the surrounding air like conventional saunas, infrared technology heats your body directly using invisible light waves. This leads to a more enjoyable experience, less energy use, and the ability to get a deeper heat penetration at lower temperatures. The entire setup process usually involves positioning the base, putting together the wall panels, installing the bench and heater parts, securing the ceiling, and finishing up with the door installation—all of which can be done by two people without any special skills.

Why You’ll Love Your New Portable Infrared Sauna

Knowing what you stand to gain from your new portable infrared sauna can make the setup process feel like less of a chore. This isn’t just a fancy new toy—it’s a major boost to your health and wellness that you’ll be reaping the rewards from for years.

Instant Health Benefits You Will Notice

The infrared heat technology in these portable units goes deeper into your tissues than traditional steam saunas, which helps to improve circulation and oxygen flow throughout your body. Regular use can help to relieve muscle tension, reduce joint pain, and speed up recovery after exercise. Many users say they sleep better after using it in the evening, as the deep relaxation effect helps them to fall into a deep sleep. Plus, the sweat you produce from the infrared heat helps to get rid of toxins, which can help to improve the clarity of your skin and support your body’s detoxification processes.

The Perks of a Compact Design

One of the most appealing benefits of portable infrared saunas is their compact design compared to permanent installations. These units usually only take up about 4-5 square feet of floor space, making them perfect for apartments or smaller homes. When you’re not using it, many models can be partially taken apart or folded up for storage, providing a level of flexibility that built-in saunas just can’t compete with. The small size also means you can take your sauna with you if you move or just want to rearrange your wellness space—something you can’t do with traditional built-in saunas.

How Portable Infrared Saunas are More Energy Efficient than Traditional Saunas

The energy efficiency of your portable infrared sauna is impressive, and you’ll find that this translates into lower operating costs. Traditional saunas usually need to preheat for 30-45 minutes and use between 6-8 kW per hour. Infrared models, on the other hand, reach the optimal temperature in just 10-15 minutes and use only 1.5-2 kW per hour. That’s a 75% reduction in energy usage! This efficiency is due to the fundamental difference in the way they heat: infrared heaters warm your body directly, rather than heating the air in the entire space. This not only saves energy, but also means you’ll feel the therapeutic heat benefits at lower ambient temperatures (110-130°F versus 180-200°F in traditional saunas), which many people find more comfortable.

Getting Prepared for Your Sauna Setup

Being well-prepared is key to a successful sauna installation. Spending a few moments to go over these prerequisites before you get started will help you avoid any possible issues and guarantee your unit works at its best.

Choosing the Perfect Spot

Choosing the right spot for your portable infrared sauna is just as important as the sauna itself. You want to choose a spot that is flat and level, and that can support the weight of the sauna and the people inside it. This will typically be around 250-400 pounds. You also want to make sure that you have at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides of the sauna. This is to ensure proper ventilation and heat dissipation. You should also keep the sauna away from any water sources or high-moisture areas. This is to protect the electrical components of the sauna. While most portable units can be placed on carpet, tile, or hardwood flooring, I would recommend using a moisture-resistant mat underneath the sauna. This is especially important if you are placing the sauna on a wood or carpet surface. For more insights, you can explore this guide for beginners on infrared sauna technology.

Think about how close your location is to a power socket—most portable infrared saunas plug into standard 120V outlets, but it’s best to avoid using extension cords if you can. Also, consider the room temperature of your chosen spot; saunas work best in rooms that are at least 65°F. Lastly, while these saunas are well-insulated, putting them in very cold areas or drafty spots could impact how well they heat up and how comfortable you are.

What to Know About Electrical Requirements

Good Health Saunas’ portable infrared saunas typically run on standard household electricity (120V/15A circuit), so you can use them at home without any special wiring. Make sure your chosen spot has a grounded (three-prong) outlet close by so you don’t need to use an extension cord. The sauna’s power consumption is typically between 1200 and 1800 watts when it’s on, so you should avoid putting it on a circuit that’s also used by other appliances that use a lot of electricity, like air conditioners or space heaters. If your house has old wiring, it’s a good idea to have an electrician check that your circuits can handle the extra load before you install the sauna.

Checking All the Parts

Before you get started with putting it all together, unpack everything and make sure you have all the parts you need by comparing what you have with the parts list that the manufacturer provided. You should have: the base panel, the rear wall panel, the left and right side panels, the front panel with the door, the ceiling panel with the heater connections, the bench and bench support, the control panel, and the various hardware components. Good Health Saunas makes this easy by providing a detailed parts list with clear labels. It’s important to do this step before you start putting it together, because if you’re missing parts it can be a real headache, and it can also be a safety issue.

Lay out all the parts you’ll need for assembly in the order you’ll need them. Group all the hardware by type and size. Look over everything to make sure nothing was damaged during shipping. This is especially important for electronic components and glass doors. If you notice anything damaged or missing, get in touch with customer service before you start the installation. If you can, take pictures of the damage. This can help speed up the process when you’re asking for replacements. It also gives you proof if you need it.

Required Tools for Setup

The ease of setting up a portable infrared sauna is one of its many benefits. You only need a few simple tools for the job. A Phillips screwdriver, a rubber mallet (for gently nudging panels into position), and maybe an adjustable wrench for securing connections are all you’ll need. Some saunas come with unique tools designed for their specific model, so make sure to look at your user guide before you start collecting your tools. A cordless drill with Phillips bits can make the job go faster, but it’s not necessary—a manual screwdriver will do just fine.

Here are a few extra things you might find useful: a level to make sure everything’s straight, a tape measure to get everything in the right place, and a buddy to help you hold the panels while you’re putting everything together. Even though most portable infrared saunas are made to be put together by two people, it’s especially important to have someone there to help you when you’re putting the ceiling panel in place and getting the door lined up. Make sure you have a clean area with enough room to spread out all the parts before you get started.

Guide to Assemble

Our guide will walk you through the assembly process, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Each step is a building block for the next, so it’s crucial to get each one right before moving on. Good Health Saunas has made their assembly process as easy to follow as possible, and it usually takes 45-60 minutes for first-time builders.

1. Setting Up the Base Panel

Start off by placing the base panel where you want your sauna to be, making sure it’s on a flat surface. You can usually tell which side is the front because it’ll be clearly marked. This is important because all the other parts will be positioned based on this. Use a level to make sure the base is completely flat because if it’s not, the door might not align properly and the whole thing could be unstable. If your floor is a little bit uneven, some saunas come with adjustable feet that you can use to make the base level.

Make sure you leave enough space around all sides (at least 4 inches) to allow for proper ventilation and easy assembly. The base panel is the foundation for your entire sauna, so it’s worth taking the extra time to make sure it’s positioned correctly to avoid problems down the line. Some models have electrical connections or outlets built into the base—be sure to remember where these are as you’ll need to line them up with other parts during assembly.

2. Setting Up the Wall Panels

Now that the base is in place, you can start setting up the wall panels. The majority of portable infrared saunas have a tongue-and-groove or buckle system that makes this step pretty easy. Start with the back panel. Stand it up and line it up with the slots or guides on the base panel. The back panel usually has heaters and electrical connections that are already installed. These will connect to the ceiling unit later on. For a deeper understanding of the technology, check out this infrared sauna technology guide.

After you’ve secured the back panel, it’s time to install the side panels. To do this, line them up with both the base and the back panel. Usually, these panels will have male/female connections that should either slide or snap together when they’re aligned correctly. To make sure the connections are fully seated, apply a bit of gentle pressure. If you see a slight gap between the panels, it means the connection isn’t complete. The front panel (the one with the door) is usually the last one you’ll install in this sequence. Once it’s installed, you’ll have completed the wall structure of your sauna.

3. Putting Together the Bench and Heater

Now that the walls are up, it’s time to install the bench support brackets. These are usually attached to the side walls using pre-drilled holes and screws that are included in the package. It’s important that these brackets are level and secure because they’re going to support the weight of the bench and whoever is sitting on it. Once you’ve got the brackets in place, find the bench heater panel and position it according to the instructions that came with it. It usually goes against the back wall, underneath where the bench will go.

Attach the power cord of the bench heater to the matching socket on the back wall panel. Make sure the connection is firm and correctly positioned. After the bench heater is correctly connected, place the bench by sliding it onto the support brackets. The bench should be flat and sturdy when force is applied. Some models may have extra heating elements in the bench that need to be connected—check the instructions for your specific model for this information.

4. Mounting the Ceiling Panel

Mounting the ceiling panel is a task that requires precision because it houses critical electrical components that must be matched up with connections from the wall panels. Place the ceiling panel over the assembled walls, making sure to line up any electrical wires that need to go through specific openings. It’s helpful to have a second person assist with this step, as one person can hold the panel in place while the other connects everything.

Position the ceiling panel so it aligns with the top edges of the wall panels, then lower it into place. It should sit flush on all sides, and usually uses the same connection system as the wall panels. Before you secure the ceiling panel, make sure all electrical cables are correctly routed and not pinched between panels. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect any electrical connections between the ceiling and wall panels. These usually involve color-coded plugs that you connect to matching receptacles.

5. Fitting and Aligning the Door

For models with a separate door installation (some come pre-installed in the front panel), now is the time to fit it using the provided hinges and hardware. It’s crucial to get the door alignment right for both functionality and heat retention, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. Test the door’s operation several times, making sure it opens and closes smoothly and creates a proper seal when closed. Most models allow for minor adjustments to the hinges if alignment issues occur—use these adjustment points to get the fit just right. For further guidance, you can refer to this infrared sauna installation guide.

Setting Up Your Sauna’s Electrical Parts

The electrical parts are like the brain of your infrared sauna, controlling everything from the heat to the lights and sound system. Modern portable infrared saunas are made with easy-to-use parts to lower the chance of setting it up wrong. Each part has a certain job to give you the best sauna experience.

How to Effectively Manage Your Cables

Good cable management is essential to prevent wire damage and ensure the best performance from all your sauna’s electrical parts. Make sure to keep all wires away from the heating elements and any moving parts such as the door. Use the cable channels or clips that came with your sauna to keep wires neatly tucked against the panels. Be sure none of your cables are stretched too tightly or have any kinks in them. Over time, this can cause damage to the insulation or the wires inside.

Setting Up the Control Panel

The control panel is the main hub that controls all the functions of the sauna. It needs to be installed properly to ensure it works correctly. Most models have a specific place where the control panel should be mounted. This is usually on the front wall of the sauna, either inside or outside. Line up the control panel with the bracket it needs to be mounted on and secure it using the hardware that was provided. Be careful not to tighten the screws too much as this could cause the casing of the panel to crack.

Link the main cable from the control panel to the matching port on the ceiling or wall panel. This connection is usually keyed or color-coded to avoid incorrect insertion. Make sure all buttons on the control panel respond when pressed and that the display lights up correctly when power is supplied. Some more advanced models may need additional setup steps such as Wi-Fi configuration or pairing with mobile apps – check your specific model’s manual for these procedures.

Securing the Heater Connections

The heating elements are the most crucial part of your infrared sauna, and they need to be securely connected to work safely and efficiently. Make sure all heater connections are completely inserted and locked in before you finish assembling. Most models use a plug-and-socket system with locking tabs that provide both an electrical connection and a secure fit. Don’t try to change heater connections or bypass safety features, as this can lead to fires and will void your warranty.

Initial Testing Steps

Once you’ve finished putting together your sauna and connecting it to a power source, it’s important to test it out before you start using it on a regular basis. This way, you can make sure that everything is working the way it should and that it’s safe to use. Start by plugging the main power cord into an outlet that’s grounded and then turn on the main power switch. The control panel should light up, which means that the sauna is getting power.

How to Fix Common Setup Problems

Even if you assemble your portable infrared sauna perfectly, you might run into a few minor issues the first time you use it. Most problems have easy solutions that don’t require you to call in a professional. I’ve set up dozens of these units, so I’ve put together a list of the most common problems and their easy fixes to help you get back to your wellness sessions as quickly as possible.

Fixing a Malfunctioning Heater

Should you find that one or more of the heating panels are not getting warm, it’s a good idea to check all the electrical connections to make sure they’re secure. Loose connections are the most common reason for heating problems. For more detailed guidance, you can refer to the user guides provided by the manufacturer. After you’ve unplugged the main power, check each heater connection to make sure it’s fully inserted and locked. The bench heater connections can sometimes come loose during assembly, so give those a careful look.

If you’ve checked and made sure everything is connected properly, but you’re still not getting consistent heat or any heat at all, you might want to check the settings on the control panel. Some saunas let you control different heating panels individually. If you’ve tried everything and you’re still not getting heat, you should reach out to customer service. You might have a heating element that’s not working and needs to be replaced. If you have a Good Health Sauna, you’re covered by a comprehensive warranty for problems like this.

Issues with Door Alignment

If your sauna door isn’t closing properly or you see gaps when it’s shut, this is usually a sign of door misalignment. This is often caused by an uneven floor or panels not being connected properly when the sauna was put together. The first thing you should do is make sure all the wall panels are connected properly and there are no gaps. If the panels are fine, you can check the hinges. Some hinges have adjustment screws that let you change the position of the door in relation to the frame. For more on sauna construction, check out this comparison of cedar and hemlock sauna materials.

Deciphering Control Panel Error Messages

When your sauna’s control panel displays an error code, it’s telling you that something isn’t right. You can find a comprehensive list of what each code means in your owner’s manual. The most common codes usually relate to problems with the temperature sensor or issues with the components communicating with each other. A lot of the time, you can fix these electronic hiccups by unplugging the sauna for about 30 seconds and then plugging it back in. If you’re still seeing error messages after that, write down the specific code you’re seeing and reach out to customer support. They’ll be able to help you troubleshoot based on that information.

Fixing Uneven Heating

Quick Guide to Heating Problems
Problem: Front heaters are hot, but the back ones are cold
Solution: Check the connections between the ceiling panel and the back wall panel

Problem: The bench heater isn’t getting hot
Solution: Make sure the bench heater cable is fully plugged into the wall

Problem: The whole sauna isn’t getting hot enough
Solution: Make sure the sauna is plugged into a power source that can handle it (and isn’t being used by other appliances that use a lot of power)

For the best and most comfortable sauna experience, you want the heat to be the same all over. If you notice that some parts are cooler than others, think about how the air moves around inside. Heat rises, so the bottom might feel a bit cooler than the top. Some people put a small towel on the bench to keep the wood from feeling cold against their skin, even when the heater under it is working right.

If you notice that there are consistently cold spots that don’t align with the anticipated heating pattern, you should check to make sure all of the heating panels are working. You can do this by carefully (and briefly) putting your hand near each heater to see if you can feel the heat. Infrared heat can sometimes seem less strong than traditional heat, but all panels should be noticeably warm within 10-15 minutes of turning the sauna on.

Don’t forget that infrared saunas heat your body directly instead of heating the air, so temperature readings might be lower than you anticipate while still providing effective therapy. Most users are comfortable between 110-130°F, which is lower than the 180-200°F that is typical of traditional saunas.

Maximize the Benefits of Your Infrared Sauna

Now that you’ve successfully set up your portable infrared sauna, it’s time to learn how to use it properly to get the most out of it. Start with short sessions of about 15-20 minutes at a moderate temperature (100-115°F) to allow your body to get used to infrared heat therapy. As you get more used to it, you can gradually increase the length and temperature of your sessions, up to 30-40 minutes at the temperature you prefer. It’s important to stay hydrated while using the sauna, so drink at least 8oz of water before your session and make sure to replenish your fluids afterwards.

If you want to make your sauna experience even more relaxing and therapeutic, you might want to try adding some aromatherapy. You can use essential oils in a diffuser (but never apply them directly to the heating elements). Eucalyptus is great for promoting respiratory health, lavender is perfect for enhancing relaxation, and peppermint can help invigorate you after a tough workout. Try to establish a regular sauna routine. Many people find that using their sauna 3-4 times a week gives them the best health benefits while still allowing for enough recovery time between sessions. And don’t forget to take care of your sauna. Regular maintenance, including wiping down the surfaces after each use, will help extend the lifespan of your sauna and ensure that it continues to perform optimally for many years to come. For more information on sauna technology, check out this guide for beginners.

Your Questions, Answered

Having walked countless people through the process of setting up their portable infrared sauna, I’ve put together answers to the questions that come up most often during installation and initial use. These practical answers address real-world concerns about everything from assembly time to electrical requirements.

How much time does it take to put together a portable infrared sauna?

Generally, a portable infrared sauna can be put together in 30-60 minutes with the help of another person. If it’s your first time setting one up, you might need the full hour. However, if you’ve done it before, you might be able to get it done in 20-30 minutes. The time it takes to assemble one also depends on the model. Larger models with more panels will naturally take longer to assemble than smaller one-person models. It’s a good idea to take your time when you’re setting one up for the first time. This ensures that all the parts are aligned correctly and prevents any problems that could occur if you rush the installation.

Is it possible to move my portable sauna after I’ve put it together?

Indeed, you can move your portable infrared sauna after you’ve put it together, but you need to be careful not to damage any parts. Most models can be lifted by 2-4 people for short moves within the same room, depending on the size of the sauna. Just make sure not to put any stress on the door hinges. Also, don’t forget to unplug all electrical connections before you start moving it.

If you’re planning to move your sauna a long way, it’s usually best to take it apart a bit. You’ll probably want to remove the roof and the walls. This will make it lighter and easier to move, and it will also be less likely to get damaged. Make sure you take some photos before you start, so you can see how it all fits together. And keep all the screws and other bits and pieces in bags, and label them so you know what’s what. The great thing about Good Health Saunas is that you can take them apart and put them back together again lots of times, without them wearing out. So they’re really easy to move around.

What’s the best room temperature for setting up my portable sauna?

The best room temperature for setting up and running your sauna is between 65-75°F (18-24°C). This is a comfortable temperature range that allows your sauna to heat up efficiently without battling with extreme cold. While you can set up your sauna in colder room temperatures, if the room is very cold (below 60°F/15°C), it may take longer for your sauna to warm up and it may not get as hot.

Once you’ve decided where to install your sauna, think about the changing seasons. If you’re installing it in a garage or outbuilding that doesn’t have climate control, the temperature changes could affect how well the sauna works. If you’re installing your sauna in a place like this, you might want to put some extra insulation around (but not touching) the sauna to help it work efficiently when it’s cold outside. On the other hand, don’t put your sauna in a place that gets really hot. The heat could be too much for the electronic parts of the sauna and could even make it shut off to prevent damage.

Will I need to install any specific electrical outlets for my infrared sauna?

Good Health Saunas’ portable infrared saunas usually run on standard 120V/15A household circuits and plug into regular grounded outlets. This means you won’t usually need to worry about any special wiring for most installations. The power cord for these saunas generally extends 6-8 feet from the sauna, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when deciding where to place your sauna. It’s also worth noting that most manufacturers advise against using extension cords for safety reasons.

If you’re dealing with a larger model that needs more power, make sure you look at the specifications of your specific unit. Some models that fit 3-4 people might need 20A circuits or even 240V connections like the ones used for electric dryers. If your home has older wiring or if you’re not sure about the capacity of your electrical system, talk to a licensed electrician before you install anything. They can make sure that the circuit you want to use can handle the extra load without causing breakers to trip or creating safety risks.

What’s the best amount of space to leave around my sauna for ventilation?

Leave at least 4 inches of space between your sauna and any walls or furniture. This will allow for good air flow and heat dispersion. It also keeps the electronic components at the right temperature and stops them from overheating. The top of the sauna should have at least 6 inches of space. This will stop heat from building up in the components in the ceiling.

Don’t forget to think about the space you’ll need for maintenance and cleaning. Make sure you have enough room to easily reach all the outside surfaces for regular dusting and to get to any back panels if you need to fix a problem. If your sauna has control panels or media connections on the outside, make sure you can still easily get to these after you’ve installed it. Having enough space around your sauna will not only help it work better but also make it last longer by stopping heat-related stress on the electronic parts.

Is it safe to set up my portable sauna on a carpet?

Yes, you can indeed set up your portable infrared sauna on a carpeted floor. The base panels of these saunas are designed to protect the floor from the heat, so it’s usually safe to put it on a carpet. However, to be extra safe, I would suggest putting a moisture-resistant mat under the sauna. This is because some sweat might make it to the floor, even though the sauna floor is waterproof. For more details, you can check out this infrared sauna installation guide.

Guide to Floor Compatibility
Carpet: Safe if moisture barrier is placed underneath
Hardwood: Safe if protective mat is used to prevent possible discoloration
Tile: Perfect choice, no additional protection needed
Vinyl/Laminate: Use protective barrier to prevent possible warping from heat

While the weight distribution of portable saunas is typically even across the base panel, deep pile carpets may show compression marks over time. If you have the space, you can rotate your sauna slightly every few months to help avoid permanent indentations in plush carpeting. If you’re worried about your floor’s aesthetics, tile or concrete flooring is the most worry-free installation surface for long-term placement.

If you’re installing your sauna on a sensitive wood floor, you should consider using a solid moisture barrier with an air gap. This is similar to what you might use under a treadmill. It’s the best way to protect against moisture and heat transfer. This can help you avoid potential wood discoloration that can happen if you place the sauna directly on the floor. This is especially important if you have darker wood floors, as they tend to show heat marks more easily.

How can I tell if all the heaters are working as they should?

When an infrared sauna is working as it should, all panels heat evenly and reach the desired temperature within 15-20 minutes. On your first use, set the temperature to 110°F and let the sauna heat for 15 minutes. Then, check each heater by holding your hand 2-3 inches away. Each one should feel warm. Keep in mind that infrared heat is different from regular heat. It’s a gentle radiant warmth, not intense hot air.

The control panel display is another way to check if your sauna is functioning properly. Most models show the current temperature and the target temperature. As the sauna warms up, the current temperature should gradually increase. If the temperature stops increasing and is significantly lower than your target temperature (allowing for normal fluctuations of 5-7°F), this could be a sign that there is a problem with the heating element. Some high-end models have diagnostic features that specifically monitor the performance of the heater and will display error codes if problems are detected. For more information, you can refer to the user guides provided by manufacturers.

Keep an eye on how you feel during your sauna sessions for ongoing verification. When you’re sitting in the middle of the sauna, the infrared heat should feel the same all over your body. If there are any cold spots or areas that are significantly cooler, it could mean that a panel isn’t working and needs to be checked out. Good Health Saunas offers a comprehensive warranty for the heating elements, so if you think any parts aren’t working like they should, don’t hesitate to get in touch with their customer service.

Have fun getting healthier and fitter with your new portable infrared sauna. If you need help setting it up or want to know the best ways to use it, the Therasage is here to help. They can give you expert advice that’s specific to your model.

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