Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Sauna Heaters

How do I choose the right sauna heater power?

The appropriate sauna heater power is primarily determined by the volume of the sauna room. Calculate the room volume by multiplying its length, width, and height.

You should also take into account any uninsulated surfaces, such as glass, tiles, concrete, brick, or stone. These surfaces increase heat demand, so the calculated sauna volume may need to be adjusted according to the specific heater manufacturer’s recommendations.

For electric sauna heaters, a common general guideline is approximately 1 kW of heater power per 1 m³ of sauna volume, but this is not a universal rule. Wood-burning sauna heaters should be selected according to the sauna room volume range specified by the manufacturer.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific heater model. An undersized heater may take too long to heat the sauna and operate under excessive load, while an oversized heater may heat the air too quickly before the sauna stones have reached the proper temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wood-Burning Sauna Heaters

How should I use a new wood-burning sauna heater for the first time?

Always follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions when using a new wood-burning sauna heater for the first time. For many heaters, the initial firing should be carried out in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, without sauna stones, so that residues from protective coatings and paints used during manufacturing can burn off and any associated odors can dissipate.

Use dry firewood and do not overload the firebox during the first firing. Add sauna stones only if this is specified in the instructions for your particular heater. Before using the sauna, ventilate the room thoroughly and make sure that no smoke or odors from the initial firing remain.

When should sauna stones be replaced?

How often sauna stones need to be replaced depends on how frequently the sauna is used, the type of stones, and the sauna heater manufacturer’s recommendations.

The stones should be checked regularly and any stones that are cracked, crumbling, or badly deteriorated should be replaced. In frequently used saunas, it is advisable to inspect the stones several times a year and replace some or all of them when necessary.

When replacing the stones, it is also recommended to remove stone fragments and dust from the stone compartment. New stones should be suitable for the specific sauna heater, and their size and quantity should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

What safety distances should be maintained around a wood-burning sauna heater?

The required safety distances from a wood-burning sauna heater to combustible walls, ceilings, benches, and other structures depend on the specific heater model. The minimum clearances are specified by the manufacturer, so always follow the installation instructions for the particular heater.

If safety distances are reduced by using protective shields, non-combustible boards, or other protective solutions, they must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable fire safety requirements. Any specified air gaps and ventilation clearances must also be maintained.

The sauna heater and flue system must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and local building and fire safety regulations.

How many stones does a wood-burning heater need?

The exact amount of sauna stones depends on the specific wood-burning heater model. The manufacturer usually specifies the recommended stone quantity in kilograms, the appropriate stone size, and the suitable type of sauna stones in the technical specifications.

Use only stones intended for sauna heaters and rinse them to remove dust before placing them in the heater. Arrange the stones according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific heater model, and do not pack them so tightly that air circulation is restricted.

Do not exceed the manufacturer’s recommended stone quantity, and use only stones of the recommended size. An incorrect amount, size, or arrangement of stones may reduce air circulation and affect the heater’s performance.

Frequently Asked Questions: Harvia Steam Generators for Turkish Saunas

Can Harvia steam generators be controlled via a smartphone?

Absolutely. The Harvia Helix HGX, HGD, and HGP models come equipped with the integrated Harvia Xenio WiFi control panel, which can be easily connected to your home WiFi network and smartphone.

What warranty is provided for Harvia steam generators?

Harvia steam generators come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty does not cover malfunctions caused by limescale buildup (due to lack of maintenance) or improper installation.

How long does it take for a Harvia steam generator to heat up a sauna?

Compared to electric or wood-fired saunas, a Harvia steam generator heats a Turkish sauna much faster. A standard private sauna (up to 10 m³) will reach operating temperature (40-50 °C) within 10-20 minutes of being turned on.

How do you maintain a Harvia steam generator?

Steam generators require preventive maintenance, which includes regular automatic or manual flushing, as well as professional cleaning once a year or more frequently (depending on water hardness). We offer not only equipment sales but also installation and preventive maintenance services.

How are Harvia steam generators installed?

The Harvia steam generator is installed outdoors, next to the sauna cabin. The following components are required for installation: a water supply connection (cold water), a drain pipe or floor drain, electrical connections rated for the power specified by the manufacturer, and a steam pipe with a steam nozzle leading into the sauna room. Installation must be performed by certified professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions: Custom SPA Massage Pools

How long does it take to deliver a custom USSPA hot tub?

Standard pools are delivered within 1-4 business days, but custom USSPA pools may take longer - usually several weeks or even several months, depending on the production queue and the selected configuration. You can find out the exact delivery date by contacting us using the contact information provided on the website.

Can a USSPA spa be installed outdoors in Lithuania's climate?

Yes, but this depends on the model you choose. USSPA hot tubs marked with the "iN" designation (e.g., Columba iN, Draco iN, Orion iN) are designed for indoor or semi-enclosed spaces, such as covered patios. Although these USSPA hot tubs feature ThermoguardiN thermal insulation and the NordicSuperioriN frost protection system, an additional cover and heating system are recommended for outdoor use without shelter during Lithuanian winters. Before choosing a model for outdoor use, we recommend consulting with specialists to determine the most suitable option for your specific location.

What warranty is provided for USSPA custom-made pools?

USSPA custom-made spa pools come with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. Since USSPA spas are supplied exclusively to the Baltic countries (Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia), warranty service and replacement parts are available more quickly than from other manufacturers.

What water treatment system is integrated into USSPA pools?

USSPA pools use the OzonePure ozone disinfection system, which naturally eliminates bacteria and organic matter in the water, reducing the need for chemicals. Additionally, the Pressure Clean filtration system with a pressure filter ensures effective water purification. The hot tubs also feature integrated ThermoguardiN insulation (for thermal protection) and the NordicSuperioriN protection system (to protect pool components from freezing).

What is the TurboBoost system in USSPA pools, and what does it do?

TurboBoost is USSPA's patented central hydromassage enhancement system, which allows you to simultaneously adjust the water flow intensity to all jets or only selected ones. The system is controlled via the BoostControl unit, allowing the user to choose the massage intensity themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions: Hot Tubs

What are the differences between the Novitek Basic, Comfort, and Premium configurations?

Novitek models with the same shell design (e.g., Halti M, Kiilo L, Salla M) are available in three configurations: Basic - standard equipment with basic massage functions and heating; Comfort - includes additional features such as colored LED lighting, an audio system, or other convenience features; Premium - all Comfort features plus additional jets; may include Wi-Fi and other advanced features. The price difference between the Basic and Premium models is typically €2,000.

What kind of electrical installation is required for a massage pool?

Most spa massage pools operate on a single-phase 220-230 V mains voltage with a 16 A circuit breaker (Serene 2 and similar models). Higher-capacity spas with more powerful pumps or additional heaters may require a three-phase 380 V power supply or a higher amperage. When installing the spa, you may also need to consider a dedicated electrical circuit with a ground connection and residual current device (RCD) protection. Before installing your chosen spa, it is always best to consult with professionals who will not only advise you on electrical solutions but also help you install the spa from start to finish.

How does a spa pool differ from an outdoor hot tub?

An outdoor hot tub is heated by wood or electricity, usually does not have massage jets or a filtration system, and the water is changed after each use. SPA massage pools have an integrated filtration and disinfection system, numerous massage jets designed to target specific areas of the body, and do not require the water to be changed after every use.

Is a spa massage pool suitable for outdoor use in winter?

Yes. For example, Fonteyn SPA models feature high-density urethane insulation, double-wrapped exterior insulation, and a highly effective 5/4-layer walk-on cover that retains heat and allows for efficient water heating even at low temperatures. Important: At temperatures below -15 °C, we recommend additional protection or a cover so that the heater does not have to run continuously at maximum capacity.

What water disinfection system is used in SPA massage pools?

Fonteyn SPA and Novitek pools feature an integrated ozone sanitation system designed for water disinfection and reduced chemical usage. In certain models, this system may be combined with a UV synergy system for dual disinfection. To ensure proper pool operation and use, we also recommend using pH balancers, active oxygen, and chlorine treatments, and changing the water every 3-6 months, depending on usage intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions: Swimming SPA Pools

How much does a swimming pool weigh?

A standard swimming pool, such as the Fonteyn "Aquatic 1" (400 × 228 cm), weighs 1,200 kg when empty and more than 8,500 kg when filled with water (7,500 l). The weight is specified in the technical specifications for each pool.

Is a swimming spa pool suitable for rehabilitation and therapeutic physical therapy?

Yes. These pools are suitable for older adults with joint problems or those recovering from surgery. Current adjustment allows you to tailor the physical exertion to your needs (from recovery to muscle strengthening), so the pool can be used for both sports rehabilitation and daily health maintenance.

What maintenance is required for a swim spa?

Swim spas already come with integrated water treatment systems. Models in the "Aquatic" series feature an ozone sanitization system, which eliminates bacteria and reduces the need for chemicals, as well as a synergistic water maintenance system. Additionally, we recommend regularly checking and maintaining the pH and chlorine (or active oxygen) levels using specialized spa pool chemicals. The water should be changed once every few months, depending on usage frequency and water quality.

How is a swim spa controlled?

Most swim spas available in stores are controlled via an integrated electronic control system (e.g., the Balboa TP600 controller) and support Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the spa from your phone using a smartphone app. The system allows you to control the water temperature, the intensity of the massage jets, and the lighting, as well as set a schedule for filtration and heating.

How does the "Deep" version of the swimming pool differ from the standard one?

The "Deep" (deeper) version of swim spas has a greater depth than standard models, so you can swim with a full range of motion. This version is ideal for taller users and those who value greater water resistance and a more natural swimming experience.