Traditional Saunas

Q: What are the health benefits of using a traditional sauna?
A: Traditional saunas use dry heat to promote cardiovascular health, improve circulation, aid in muscle recovery, and support detoxification through sweating. They’re also known to reduce stress and improve overall relaxation.

Q: How often should I use a sauna for health benefits?
A: 3–5 sessions per week, lasting 15–20 minutes each, is generally effective for most users. Always stay hydrated and listen to your body.

Q: Are saunas safe for everyone?
A: Saunas are generally safe, but individuals with heart conditions, low blood pressure, or who are pregnant should consult a physician before use.

Cold Plunges

Q: What does a cold plunge do for your body?
A: Cold plunges reduce inflammation, promote muscle recovery, and boost mood and mental clarity by triggering the release of norepinephrine and endorphins.

Q: How long should I stay in a cold plunge?
A: Most benefits are achieved with 2–5 minutes of immersion at temperatures between 50°F–59°F (10°C–15°C). Beginners should start slow and build tolerance.

Q: Is cold water immersion safe?
A: While generally safe for healthy individuals, cold plunges may not be suitable for those with heart or respiratory conditions. Always ease into the practice and never plunge alone.

Hot Tubs

Q: What are the wellness benefits of a hot tub?
A: Hot tubs help relax muscles, relieve joint pain, improve circulation, and enhance sleep quality. They’re especially beneficial for stress relief and post-exercise recovery.

Q: How long should I soak in a hot tub?
A: A 15–30 minute soak is ideal. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may cause dehydration or lowered blood pressure.

Q: Can I use a hot tub every day?
A: Yes, many users enjoy daily soaks. Be sure to stay hydrated and keep water properly maintained for hygiene and safety.

General Wellness Tips

Q: Can I combine hot and cold therapies (contrast therapy)?
A: Yes! Alternating between a sauna or hot tub and a cold plunge can boost circulation, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle recovery. Always allow your body to adjust between transitions.

Q: Who should consult a doctor before using these wellness products?
A: If you’re pregnant, have cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, or are taking medications that affect blood pressure or circulation, speak with your doctor before use.

1. Traditional Sauna

Heated by: Electric or wood-burning stove
Temperature: 150–195°F (65–90°C)
Humidity: Low (add water to stones for steam)
Experience: Dry heat with optional bursts of steam for a classic sauna feel
Styles Available:

Barrel Sauna – Compact, efficient, and ideal for outdoor use. The curved design helps with natural heat circulation and quick warm-up.

Cabin Sauna – Roomy, rectangular, and often styled like a log cabin. Great for larger groups and versatile placement.

Best for: Sauna enthusiasts who enjoy a traditional, high-heat experience with the option to control humidity.

2. Infrared Sauna

Heated by: Infrared light panels
Temperature: 120–150°F (49–65°C)
Humidity: None (dry)
Experience: Deep, radiant heat that warms the body directly rather than the air
Styles Available: Typically sleek, modern indoor units with built-in controls and audio features

Best for: Detoxification, muscle recovery, relaxation, and those sensitive to higher temperatures.

What’s the difference between electric and wood-burning sauna heaters?

Choosing the right sauna heater can dramatically affect your experience. Here's a breakdown of the two most popular options:

Electric Sauna Heaters

How it works: Uses electricity to heat sauna stones and the surrounding air
Setup: Requires electrical wiring and connection (usually 220–240V)
Control: Digital or manual controls with programmable settings and timers

Pros:

Easy to operate with the push of a button

Fast and consistent heat-up time

Low maintenance and no need for firewood

Ideal for indoor or modern installations

Precise temperature control

Cons:

Requires access to electrical power

Less "traditional" feel

Lacks the natural ambiance of a wood fire

Best for: Homeowners seeking convenience, automation, and easy maintenance

Wood-Burning Sauna Heaters

How it works: Burns firewood to heat sauna stones and the air
Setup: Requires chimney or flue for ventilation; best suited for outdoor use
Control: Manual – heat depends on fire intensity and airflow

Pros:

Authentic, traditional sauna experience

Rich, woodsy aroma and crackling fire ambiance

No need for electricity – great for off-grid or remote settings

Often reaches higher humidity and heat levels naturally

Cons:

Requires firewood and manual lighting

Slower heat-up time

Regular cleaning of ash and soot

Needs proper ventilation and safety precautions

Best for: Sauna purists, off-grid users, or those seeking a rustic, immersive experience

Electric Sauna Heater Sizing Guide

Sauna Room Volume (cubic feet)Recommended Heater Size (kW)

Up to 100 cu ft-3.0 kW

100 – 150 cu ft-4.5 kW

150 – 250 cu ft-6.0 kW

250 – 300 cu ft-7.5 kW

300 – 425 cu ft-8.0 kW

425 – 600 cu ft-9.0 kW

600 – 750 cu ft-10.5 kW

Helpful Tips

Add volume for non-insulated materials like glass or stone (usually add ~25% to the total cubic feet).

Round up if your room size is in between sizes for better performance.

Always check manufacturer specs — some heaters are more efficient or have different ventilation needs.

Do you have any special deals for new customers?

We may have various discount codes operating at any given time, however our current promotions are always visible on our homepage. Returning customers and email subscribers may also receive additional discounts.

We are currently offering free shipping on orders over $100, which sounds like some standard sales offer, but it's actually significant. Shipping is expensive! Many other companies advertise "FREE SHIPPING," but they really just bake the cost into the price and make you eat it. We truly pay the shipping for you on large orders, which can add up quite quickly based on the weight of the shipment!

How do I know I'm getting everything I need?

The simplest way to shop for large sauna and steam products is with our packages. Items labeled "Package" usually include everything you need to operate your system. For example, you may think you're getting a complete sauna heater at the best price, but it comes without the rocks, controls, protective plates, chimneys, etc. The majority of our large products are listed as packages, especially sauna heaters and steam shower control packages. You can also choose various options within each product listing, such as our best recommendations for heaters in specific saunas.

However, please remember that each package is still not necessarily complete - for example, a sauna heater package has all the rocks and controls, but still needs a sauna in which to be placed! A steam shower control package has everything needed for the control, but still needs a generator, sold separately. There are a few products that are truly complete packages, such as the Finnmark FD-5 and FD-4 combo saunas, or the complete steam packages.

We can also order each individual part for you, if needed. Please simply reach out and ask!

Can I edit or modify my order after I already paid?

Yes, there is time to modify your order after it has been placed, up until the time it is fulfilled and shipped. If it looks like something may be missing, we may confirm with you to make sure you get everything you need in your order.

Please always feel free to reach out and ask us any questions you have. We will always do our best to respond within 24 hours.

How does shipping work?

We ship our products to customers across the continental United States. We ship most products through major carriers such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, and USPS. Shipping is expensive, however we are currently offering free shipping for all orders over $100, potentially saving you thousands.

Shipping and installing heavier objects, such as saunas, sauna heaters, cold plunges, and hot tubs is a process. Many heavy items will only be delivered to easily-accessible areas, with certain limitations, such as the end of a driveway or side of the street. The end customer is responsible for unloading and moving the shipment, and must rent or provide their own heavy moving equipment, such as fork lifts or other devices.

Installation

Installation requires additional tools and labor for most sauna kits, and is either comprised of putting the walls and ceiling together, or building the structure one board at a time.

Remember, sauna heaters are usually sold separately, and are required for traditional saunas to operate. Most of our products are sold as packages, including everything you need to operate each product. We can also get you each individual part as needed.

It is easy to find local contractors who install these products, if you need help. Plan for this to be a fairly large and time-consuming project, but absolutely worth it in the end, when you have your own dream spa!

Returns & Refunds

Our main goal is always to conduct business with integrity. We will always do our best to resolve unforeseen issues to your satisfaction. For most of our large and heavy products, there are no returns or refunds (with the exception of items that arrived damaged and documented due to an error by the distributor or shipping carrier), because of the nature and size of these large products. Please read our full policy and follow the process listed to document a damaged product for a return/replacement. Again, please remember, it is always our intention to ensure you get what you paid for and are completely in love with your products!

Transparency

We believe in transparency, honesty, and authenticity. We are in this business because we are passionate about the benefits of high-quality spa treatments. We sell our products at the lowest possible price, and offer valuable special discounts. We don't claim "free shipping" but then pass the cost on to you. We have premium products at the best prices anywhere. We value your business!

The Helix Shop is an American-owned and operated small business based in Denver, Colorado.  The "Helix" is an upward spiral, representing constant and never-ending improvement. We are passionate about health, longevity, and personal development.  Our highest values include quality, authenticity, and living our best lives.

Imagine your dream vacation becoming your daily dream life: spa treatments at home.  Meditation in the sauna, an invigorating dip in the cold plunge, a hot steam shower, relaxing in the hot tub, and all the accessories that make it perfect.  Our mission is to make this dream a reality for each of our customers!

Helix products are sourced from the highest quality manufacturers, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and luxury.  We focus on premium products and customer satisfaction, providing a simple online shopping experience with expert guidance. Please feel free to contact us for help, or with any questions you may have.

Our mission is to build your dream spa!