Why Does My Sauna Feel Cooler in Winter?

It’s a question we sometimes hear during the cooler months:

“Why doesn’t my sauna feel as hot as it did in summer?”

The answer lies in how infrared saunas work—and why the warmth you feel isn’t just about the air temperature inside the cabin, but what’s happening deep within your body.

Why Infrared Works Differently

Traditional saunas heat the air first, then your body. Infrared saunas do the opposite.

Clearlight® Saunas use our advanced True Wave™ infrared heaters, which emit far infrared wavelengths designed to gently raise your core body temperature. This process mimics a mild fever, triggering detoxification, circulation, muscle recovery, and relaxation—without the need for extreme heat in the air around you.

Because infrared targets you directly (rather than heating the air), the benefits begin as soon as you're inside, even before the cabin reaches its peak temperature.

What to Expect in Cooler Months

During winter, you may notice your sauna feels slightly cooler than in warmer seasons. That’s completely normal—and there are a few reasons for it:

• Lower ambient starting temperatures
• Cooler room conditions (especially for outdoor installations)
• Natural seasonal variation in how heat is retained and distributed

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Final Thought: It’s Not About the Heat—It’s About the Healing

Clearlight® Infrared Saunas are designed to work with your body, not just the temperature of the room. Whether you’re using your sauna for detox, recovery, or deep relaxation, the magic isn’t in the maximum heat—it’s in the infrared wavelength.

So even on the chilliest day, step inside, take a deep breath, and let the light do the work.