How to choose a cast iron stove for a bath and sauna: TOP-7 models with a description of technical characteristics and customer reviews

The best stainless steel sauna stoves

Termofor Tunguska

A magnificent specimen, which is also not very expensive. This stove very quickly heats a steam room with a volume of up to 18 m3. The heater available here is heated from all sides - this is the key to efficiency.

Advantages:

• Suitable for Russian baths of any configuration;
• Produces fine steam;
• Very fast heating;
• The volume of the firebox and heater will suit everyone;
• Adequate cost;
• Very easy installation.

Flaws:

• Design is not for everyone;
• Cools down very quickly.

The main advantage of this model is its very fast heating. The trouble is that it cools down very quickly. Reviews of the Termofor Tunguska indicate that you need to remember to add firewood to the firebox, otherwise it can quickly cool down.

However, its 60-liter volume allows you to do this not too often. The room with this stove is heated by a convector casing, which creates a powerful flow of hot air.

Termofor Geyser 2014

Another worthy stove designed for a Russian bath. For its production, heat-resistant alloy steel was used. Steam generation here is two-stage. This means that the oven creates heavy steam, which is dried in the second compartment, after which it goes out into the steam room.

Advantages:

• Light and pleasant steam;
• Not bad appearance;
• The heater holds 70 kg of stones;
• Combined fuel;
• Optimal price tag;
• Very fast heating;
• The case turned out to be very reliable.

Flaws:

When wood burns intensely, a hum is heard in the chimney.

Much more important is the fact that the stove can boast a long service life - it is possible that it will outlive the bathhouse itself. It is capable of heating a room with a volume of up to 18 m3 - this is quite enough for most owners.

Harvia Legend 240 Duo

The Finnish manufacturer has been working in this field for 60 years and now shows very good results. Harvia Legend 240 Duo is distinguished not only by its attractive appearance, but also by its high-quality device. The large stone compartment holds up to 200 kilograms. This stove is suitable not only for a Russian bath, but also for use in a sauna, because it can produce high temperatures while leaving humidity at a low level.

Very often the premises allocated for the steam room are small in area. However, the innovations that were used in the design of the stove allow you not to worry about fire safety when installing it. Items located in the steam room can be located depending on the wishes of the developer. The large volume of the heater compared to analogues is also an advantage. Firstly, it allows you to produce a large amount of high-quality steam. Secondly, you can lower the temperature without losing the amount of steam. This can help people who are contraindicated in a bath due to high temperature.

pros

• Large compartment for stones.
• Fast heating of the room.
• Large amount of steam.
• High quality material.

Minuses

It is possible to add a tank, but it must be purchased separately.

Vladislav, 56 years old.

I bought the stove half a year ago. Very pleased with the purchase. When I first installed it, I was surprised that there was a lot of free space left in the steam room. Of course, I saw that the oven was compact, but I didn’t think it was that much. However, steam quality and heating time are not affected. About 30-40 minutes is enough for the steam room to warm up to 80 degrees. The steam is light and pleasant. And the design is nice too.

Homemade stove made of cast iron pipe

Given the high cost of ready-made devices, some craftsmen are building homemade heating tanks for bathhouses. In addition to the stove itself, you need to take care of a durable surface for it. It is not necessary to build a full-fledged foundation, but it is necessary to lay a metal sheet on the floor and secure it. Place flat slate on top. Both sheets should protrude 5 centimeters from all sides of the structure.

The easiest way to make a sauna stove yourself is from a large cast-iron pipe half a meter in diameter and a meter long.

A finished boiler of such volumes will be able to heat a steam room measuring 12–15 square meters. You will also need a sheet of cast iron with a thickness of 5 to 10 mm. The only tools you need are a welding machine with electrodes and a grinder with discs for working on metal. Visually, the finished oven may look something like this.

Finished oven dimensions

First of all, take care of the bottom of the future oven. Cut a circle with a diameter of 50 cm (equal to the diameter of the pipe) from a cast iron sheet. Then weld it to one end of the pipe - this will be the bottom of the future boiler for the bath. After this, cut a small rectangular hole in the pipe at the bottom to create an ash pan there. We turn the cut piece of metal into a door for the ash pit by simply welding metal hinges to the pipe and to this element. For the handle of the ash door, weld a small piece of metal or pre-purchased steel fittings to it.

Install a grate immediately above the ash pan. You need to buy it in a specialized department of a construction or hardware store. It is better to use standard grates, as they are easier to change if necessary than to create them yourself. To place the grate above the ash pan, weld small supports inside the pipe, on which you place the grate bars. Sections of thick reinforcement can be used as supporting elements.

On top of the grates, cut a rectangular hole intended for the firebox. Make the door with the handle in the same way as was described in the case of organizing the door for the ash pan. And on top of the firebox you need to make a container for stones. Cut another circle from the cast iron sheet. Make a hole on the side for the chimney pipe (standard size is 120 mm). Install this circle inside the structure and weld it. It should be located 20 centimeters below the upper end of the pipe. This recess will be the compartment for stones. Weld a pipe to the chimney opening, and weld legs from sections of thick reinforcement or other suitable material to the bottom of the stove.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of stoves made of cast iron is that the walls of such units have a thickness of more than 10 mm, which means that such a sauna device will accumulate heat much better, retain it and release it longer than its steel counterparts. A cast-iron sauna stove will provide gradual, smooth heating of the steam room and will allow you to economically use firewood - an expensive fuel.

High heat resistance and thick walls of the heating device also have a positive effect on its durability. Cast iron walls are not subject to deformation under the influence of high temperatures, which means that the unit will serve you for many years, its service life is much longer than that of steel.

The corrosion resistance of cast iron is simply brilliant; unlike steel, it does not rust even in a room with sharp temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels.

Modern cast-iron sauna appliances are made by casting, using the tongue-and-groove principle, or using sealants. The absence of welds also has a positive effect on quality, since very often, due to non-compliance with technology, it is the joints that become the most vulnerable areas of the heating device.

Another important point: cast iron is a chemically neutral alloy, which means that during the operation of the furnace, the oxygen in the room will not burn out.

Cast iron stove for bath Vesuvius SKIF

To be fair, it should be noted that products made of cast iron still have disadvantages. First of all, this is the high cost of such units and their high specific gravity, which means that in order to install a furnace, an indispensable condition is the need to arrange a foundation for it.

Many modern manufacturers, in an effort to reduce the cost of their products and make them more competitive, offer consumers combined options.

In this case, the combustion part of the unit is made of heat-resistant cast iron, and the outer casing is made of stainless steel. Such specimens have proven themselves well, but those who are accustomed to “broom” steam still remain adherents of brick or cast iron stoves.

The difference between cast iron stoves and other sauna units

Some people may think that the main advantage of this material for a sauna stove is its thickness. In fact, it is difficult to compare cast iron with other materials precisely on this basis, since rare metal is cast 10 mm thick, like cast iron. For example, steel sheets can occasionally be found with a thickness of 6 mm, and standard options produce no more than 3–4 mm. But, unlike steel, cast iron is not susceptible to intercrystalline corrosion, since it contains graphite. Therefore, the walls of cast iron stoves do not burn out or corrode. On the other hand, due to this composition, graphite deposits periodically appear on the walls of the boiler, which can simply be washed off with a soft cloth.

The cast iron stove is convenient in terms of location, as it is quite compact, and therefore will fit perfectly into the interior of even a small bathhouse. Since cast iron does not rust, the walls of the boiler do not have to be opened with special heat-resistant paint. Cast iron stoves do not need additional cladding, because many modern models look respectable on their own. The design of the units can be very sophisticated, and some models are equipped with a door made of heat-resistant glass, through which you can clearly see how the fire is blazing inside.

Since you can do without cladding, the process of installing such a stove is simplified. This also frees up the owner's hands. Perhaps in the future he will want to move the cast-iron unit to the next room of the bathhouse or even move it to another building.

The key characteristic of cast iron as a sauna stove material is its thermal conductivity. In this parameter, such a boiler is significantly ahead of the bricks and stones from which it is customary to lay out a stove-stove. Over time, the structure of a brick kiln undergoes deformation, as destruction occurs in the joints between bricks due to constant temperature changes. The efficiency of the cast iron unit reaches 82%. To understand: one correctly completed stack of firewood can be enough for 7–10 hours of heating.

Significant differences between a heater and a cast iron stove relate to their weight. A brick building weighs about 1.5 tons and needs a strong foundation, which is expensive for the bathhouse owner. But the average weight of a cast iron stove is only 60–70 kg. Such a baby is easy to move in space and install anywhere. It is also important that cast iron boilers are safer from the point of view of the risk of fire in the bathhouse. In this case, the danger that sparks will fall on the floor and walls of the room through invisible cracks that appear in the heaters is completely eliminated.

The advantages of cast iron boilers include durability. With proper use, the device will serve the owner of the bathhouse for at least 30–35 years.

The best companies of electric sauna stoves

Electric sauna stoves undoubtedly have several major advantages: they are environmentally friendly, easy to operate, fireproof and, most importantly, do not require the use of additional constructive measures to remove combustion products. Therefore, despite the fact that a wood-burning stove is considered the traditional option for a Russian bath, electrical devices in the steam room are becoming more and more popular. Their compact size, the possibility of wall mounting and other pleasant options attract not only owners of small saunas, but also owners of full-size steam rooms in a country house.

Although most large manufacturers of sauna units usually have several electric heaters in their range, the most popular electric sauna stoves on the market are manufactured by specialized companies. This is explained by the fact that the design principles of heating devices using the principle of fuel combustion are radically different from the approaches to the design of electrical devices.

The best companies of steel sauna stoves

If cast iron is the material from which wood-burning stoves are almost exclusively made, then stainless and structural steel is a universal option for all types of sauna units - electric, gas and solid fuel. Although steel fireboxes are less durable than cast iron, modern metal processing technologies make it possible to produce high-quality stoves with excellent characteristics, at a budget price and relatively low weight. Most well-known Russian manufacturers of steel sauna stoves offer consumers a large range of models and the opportunity to choose the type of fuel: wood, coal or gas.

TMF Geyser 2014

Quality products. The stove is ideal for a Russian bath. The walls are not as thin as in the previous model, due to which the period of high-quality work increases. To obtain light, high-quality steam, a two-level system is used. A similar tool is used in the Hangar. Heavy steam first passes into the first compartment, then moves to the next, where it receives the necessary lightness. The unique design will also not leave anyone indifferent.

High quality steel ensures long service life. There is a funnel for water supply. A limiter is installed on it, with the help of which it will be possible to prevent excessive water from getting onto the stones. However, for a large room you will need a different oven. This model is designed to heat 8-18 cubic meters. Based on customer reviews, we can conclude that the stove requires attention.

pros

• Fast heating.
• Light steam.
• High quality steel.
• Perfect design.
• Large compartment for stones.

Minuses

• Not suitable for large rooms.
• Noise appears in the chimney when burning a large amount of wood.

Dmitry, 40 years old.

I am satisfied with the purchase. First of all, I would like to evaluate the quality of the steam. When I bought it, the seller said that the steam would be light, but I couldn’t even imagine how light it would be. In general, the steam is excellent. The heater is also comfortable. I used a different model before. When I bought stones, I bought them out of habit, but there weren’t enough, so I had to buy more. However, such a number of stones is only a plus. The steam room heats up quickly, literally 30-40 minutes, although the volume is not very large. Looks nice too. I haven't noticed any cons yet.

Hephaestus PB-03

Our rating of the best stoves is completed by Hephaestus PB-03. This stove is radically different from the previous one in its heating capabilities. It can bring a room with a volume of up to 45 cubic meters to the desired temperature. Thick cast iron walls give the stove massiveness and volume. Due to this thickness, the service life automatically increases, since it is very difficult to damage or burn them.

Fans of high temperatures will love it. Great oven. The efficiency is 90%. This is much higher than other models. The room warms up quickly. The steam quality is also excellent. It turns out very light and not dry. Retains heat for a long time. So you can steam to your heart's content, without worrying about adding firewood for a long time. The only thing that can affect the choice of this stove is its weight. With basic contents, the weight is 350 kilograms, so the floor in the bathhouse must be strong and preferably reinforced. The oven will show the best results if it is lined with refractory bricks, which will also affect its heating time.

pros

• Reliable design.
• High efficiency.
• The heat is retained for a long time.
• Suitable for heating large rooms.

Minuses

• Impressive weight.
• High price.

Vladimir, 56 years old.

The best sauna stove I've ever seen. When purchasing, I tried it on for a long time, the price scared me off. However, he did not regret the costs. The steam room warms up very quickly and it’s pleasant to steam. True, I had to strengthen the floor in the bathhouse, since I did not count on such a giant.

The best cast iron stoves for a Russian bath

Cast iron stoves still have many adherents. Although they take longer to heat up, they retain heat better. Here are the best representatives of this category.

Hephaestus PB-04 M

True connoisseurs of Russian baths prefer cast iron stoves. The Hephaestus PB-04 M model is made from a special type of cast iron containing chromium. Thanks to the remote portal, the firebox can be located in one room, and the heat-resistant door in another. Since the stove is delivered disassembled, there will be no problems with transportation and unloading.

Experts pay attention to the innovative design of the firebox. It has a gas afterburning system, a flame arrester and turbulent fins

As a result, even when the combustion chamber is heated to 750°C, the exhaust gases enter the chimney after being cooled to 300°C. The efficiency of the furnace reaches 87%.

The model wins our rating for its record wall thickness (6 cm), so heat is retained in the oven for a long time. The picture is complemented by an artistic frame around the door.

• long service life;
• high efficiency;
• unique firebox design;
• artistic door frame.

Flaws

not detected.

Vesuvius LEGEND FORGING 28 Fireplace (205)

The cast iron stove Vesuvius LEGEND FORGING 28 Fireplace (205) creates worthy competition for the leader of the rating. It can work in a steam bath with a volume of up to 30 cubic meters. m. Externally, the model looks elegant; there are no problems with transportation and installation. The cast iron firebox is divided into 3 parts; the manufacturer used a ceramic cord for sealing. The safety and reliability of the design is ensured by bolted connections of units and parts. A special type of cast iron can withstand strong temperature changes; it does not burst when exposed to a large volume of water.

The stove takes second place in the ranking due to its higher price and smaller firebox wall thickness (1.2 cm). In addition, the design has greater weight (178 kg) and dimensions.

Flaws

• heavy weight;
• high price.

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required

Vesuvius SKIF STANDARD

This oven also does not have sharp corners. This appearance allows the heat generated to be distributed more evenly. There are 2 models from the manufacturer: with an open and closed heater. If you need a Russian bath with high air humidity, it is better to limit yourself to a closed type. However, if you want to look at the stones in person and splash water on them, you will have to install additional tools to increase the air humidity and make the steam lighter.

All stoves from this manufacturer have specific shapes that will definitely be remembered by visitors to the bathhouse. There are a large number of types of “Scythians”, so it will not be difficult to choose the necessary stove for the volume of the room

Also, special attention is drawn to the door for firewood, which can be made in both classic and glass styles. It is possible to connect a tank for heating water

However, it is worth considering that the standard package does not include this addition, so it will have to be purchased separately. Fortunately, you can find several types from the same manufacturer.

pros

• High quality material.
• Original design.
• It is possible to add a tank for heating water.

Valery is 32 years old.

I purchased this stove 2 years ago. At first I was happy with everything, but after about six months I began to notice disadvantages. Firstly, the chimney quickly becomes dirty, which is why you have to clean it very often. I can't identify the reason. He carefully took care of the cleanliness of the chimney and cleaned it regularly. Secondly, after prolonged use it becomes increasingly difficult to clean the glass on the firebox door. Again, I used special cleaning products, but they no longer help. In general, it’s a pleasure to use for the first six months or a year, but then problems arise.

Bake with an open mind or...

If the stove is the soul of the bathhouse, then the heater is the soul of the stove itself. After all, this part of the structure is the source of steam. It is important to decide for yourself whether you plan to make the heater open or closed. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Closed heater

A brick stove with a closed heater allows you to create moisture-rich Russian steam, thanks to which it will be comfortable to stay in the bathhouse and steam for a long time.
A stove with a closed heater can be of constant operation (you can go wash immediately after the steam room has warmed up, but you will have to periodically add fuel) and periodic operation (you can go wash only after the coals have gone out). In the first case, the stones are heated by the walls that separate them from the firebox. In the second - due to the passage of hot smoke through them.

Closed cobblestones reduce the active transfer of heat into the steam room, which means...

1. Firstly, the heating of the room occurs more slowly, but the conditions for vaping are created more comfortable.
2. Secondly, all stones heat up evenly and retain heat for a long time.
3. Thirdly, do not be afraid of the steam room overheating.

But keep in mind that the consumption of firewood for such a stove will be greater than for structures with an open heater.

Open heater

Most metal stoves have an open heater, but in brick projects this solution is much less common.
The specificity lies in the arrangement of cobblestones in a bowl above the firebox. Stoves with an open heater are often called sauna stoves due to the fact that with their help it is much more difficult to achieve the steam consistency required for a Russian bath (the steam produced can be described as dry-air). This can be easily explained by the fact that the stones quickly warm up to 200-250 degrees and quickly give off heat, since they directly border on the air in the steam room.

But a prerequisite for good Russian steam is heating the top layer of stones, but this does not happen, since it is from this layer of cobblestones that heat is constantly removed. The result is obvious - the bathhouse quickly overheats.

It is also worth remembering that if the stove is not heated, the stones begin to cool quite quickly, and this leads to the fact that the steam becomes heavy and damp.

Nevertheless, such stoves are very popular, as they have two significant advantages. Firstly, this is the efficiency of heating the steam room. This is especially true for summer residents who cannot afford to spend 4-5 hours warming up the bathhouse, but want, having completed all their work, to quickly heat the bathhouse, wash and go home. Secondly, an open heater requires less fuel, which leads to money savings.

Which sauna stove is better, steel or cast iron?