How to Make Your Backyard More Sustainable with a Sauna

Creating a sustainable backyard is about making conscious choices that benefit both your wellbeing and the planet. It involves selecting eco-friendly materials, reducing energy consumption, and creating a space that works in harmony with nature. Adding a sauna to your backyard can be an excellent way to enhance your lifestyle, and with thoughtful planning, it can also be a sustainable addition that you can feel good about.

This guide is here to walk you through how a backyard sauna can be a surprisingly eco-friendly retreat. We’ll explore how to choose the right materials, operate your sauna efficiently, and integrate it into a sustainable backyard oasis. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to enjoy the restorative benefits of a sauna while honoring your commitment to the environment.

The Connection Between Saunas and Sustainability

A sauna might seem like a luxury that consumes a lot of energy. However, modern saunas are designed with sustainability in mind. From the materials used in their construction to their operational efficiency, today’s saunas offer an opportunity to create a wellness space that aligns with eco-conscious values.

A sustainable backyard sauna is constructed from responsibly sourced materials, utilizes energy efficiently, and has a minimal environmental impact. By choosing the right model and integrating it thoughtfully into your landscape, your sauna can become a centerpiece of a sustainable and rejuvenating outdoor space.

Jasper Knight, Founder of Secret Saunas, explains, “We see a growing number of our customers who are not just looking for a wellness retreat, but for one that is thoughtfully designed and has a low impact on the environment. A sauna can be a beautiful extension of a sustainable lifestyle when chosen with care.”

Building a Sustainable Sauna: What to Look For

Creating a sustainable sauna starts with making informed choices about its construction and operation. Here are the key factors to consider to ensure your backyard addition is as green as it is relaxing.

Sourcing Eco-Friendly Materials

The foundation of a sustainable sauna is the wood it’s made from. Look for saunas constructed with timber from responsibly managed forests. Certifications from organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) indicate that the wood is sourced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

Many high-quality saunas utilize woods such as cedar, thermowood, or Nordic spruce.

• Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insects, reducing the need for chemical treatments. It’s also an excellent insulator, which helps retain heat and improve energy efficiency.

• Thermowood: This is wood that has been heat-treated to enhance resistance to decay. This process is chemical-free, making the wood more stable and long-lasting.

• Nordic Spruce: A popular choice for traditional saunas, spruce is a sustainable option when sourced from well-managed European forests.

Prioritizing Energy Efficiency

The heater is the heart of your sauna, and its efficiency is crucial for sustainability. You have several options, each with its own environmental considerations.

• Electric Heaters: Modern electric heaters, such as those from the Finnish brand Harvia, are designed for maximum efficiency. They heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, which minimizes energy waste.
• Infrared Heaters: Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas because they heat the body directly rather than the air. This targeted heating process generally requires less energy, making it a very efficient choice for homeowners.
• Wood-Burning Stoves: For a truly traditional and off-grid experience, a wood-burning stove can be a sustainable option, provided you use locally and responsibly sourced firewood. This can reduce your reliance on electricity and connect you more deeply with the natural world.

Christoffer Arfert, Founder of Select Saunas, shares his perspective: “We hand-pick our products to ensure they meet high standards not just for quality, but also for reliability and sustainability. Investing in a well-made, energy-efficient heater is one of the most important steps you can take to create a sustainable sauna experience.”

The Importance of Insulation

Proper insulation is crucial for minimizing heat loss and reducing the energy required to maintain your sauna at the desired temperature. Barrel and cube-shaped saunas are naturally efficient designs, as their curved or compact structures promote better air circulation and heat distribution. High-quality construction with thick, well-fitted wooden staves ensures a tight seal, trapping heat inside and reducing your energy consumption.

Integrating Your Sauna into a Sustainable Backyard

Your sauna doesn’t exist in isolation; it’s part of a larger backyard ecosystem. By integrating it thoughtfully, you can enhance both its sustainability and the overall appeal of your outdoor space.

Landscaping with Native Plants

Surround your sauna with native plants that are adapted to your local climate. These plants require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native species, helping to create a resilient and low-impact garden. They also provide vital habitats for local wildlife, such as birds and pollinators.

Implementing Water-Wise Practices

Features like a cold plunge tub or an outdoor shower can beautifully complement a sauna. To manage water use sustainably, consider installing a rainwater harvesting system. Rain barrels can collect water from your roof, which can then be used for your cold plunge or to water your garden.

Using Sustainable Lighting

For evening sauna sessions, illuminate the area with solar-powered or low-voltage LED lighting. These options are highly energy-efficient and can create a warm, inviting ambiance without adding to your electricity bill. Solar-powered path lights are easy to install and can guide you safely and sustainably to the sauna.

Your Path to a Greener Backyard

Adding a sauna to your backyard is an investment in your wellbeing that can also reflect your commitment to sustainability. By choosing a sauna made from responsibly sourced materials, opting for an energy-efficient heater, and integrating it into an eco-friendly landscape, you can create a personal sanctuary that is both restorative and responsible.

It’s about making choices that feel good for you and for the planet. With the proper planning, your backyard sauna can become a cherished space where you can relax, recharge, and connect with nature.