A hard-wired circuit is connected permanently to the electrical panel rather than plugged into an outlet. Sauna heaters above about 4 kW draw more current than a standard 120V outlet can supply, so they run on a dedicated 240V circuit — typically 30A for a 6 kW heater and 40 to 45A for 8 to 9 kW — installed by a licensed electrician.
Why it matters when you are comparing products
This is the cost most often missing from a sauna budget. Running a new 240V circuit can add hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the distance from your panel, and it is not optional on a traditional cabin.
Where this comes up
- What electrical service does a home sauna need? — The full picture, including what to ask an electrician.
- Infrared saunas — Many infrared cabins avoid this entirely by running on 120V.
Reviewed 2026-08-15