Testing the Plunge Infrared Sauna: A Home Wellness Experience

In the realm of at-home wellness, Plunge has made waves since its inception in 2020 with innovative cold plunges, followed by the introduction of its Scandinavian-style wood sauna and, most recently, an infrared sauna designed for two. After receiving an offer to test this substantial addition, I dove in to explore the practicality of housing such a device in a modest New York City apartment.

The Standard model, accommodating two people, comes with a price tag of $7,690. Additional costs for delivery and assembly can quickly elevate the total to around $8,945. This hefty figure is before tax and any necessary electrical work, requiring careful consideration before purchasing.

Measuring over 6 feet 8 inches tall and 4 feet 5 inches wide, the sauna makes a bold statement in any space. Mine found a home among yoga mats and exercise equipment, adding a purposeful touch to the room. However, prospective buyers should thoroughly measure their intended location, as the assembled sauna does not fit through standard doorways.

Installation involves more than just moving the sauna into place. It requires a dedicated 20-amp circuit, which is not standard for typical home outlets. Thankfully, my chosen location had the correct setup, but those considering the sauna should double-check their home’s electrical capabilities before making the leap.

The delivery process proved to be straightforward but physically demanding. The sauna's components arrived curbside, necessitating a strong team to haul the heavy parts inside. While Plunge offers professional assembly, scheduling can be a hassle, so my partner and I opted for a DIY approach, which took about 90 minutes to two hours to complete. The provided app offers a clear step-by-step guide, making the process manageable as long as you have help.

One notable aspect of the Plunge sauna is its design, which stands apart from cheaper alternatives. The unique angular shape and glass front create a visually appealing profile, while the materials used—Canadian hemlock wood and integrated heating panels—add quality and elegance. Despite the beautiful design, the glass surface does tend to show fingerprints, requiring regular cleaning.

Inside, the sauna offers an inviting ambiance with features like chromotherapy lighting and discreet Nakamichi speakers, delivering a heavenly sound experience. The infrared heating method feels different from traditional saunas, providing a soothing warmth that builds gradually, rather than overwhelming users with extreme heat. With temperatures hovering around 156°F, it remains comfortable during longer sessions.

After several weeks of use, both my partner and I found the sauna spacious enough for a comfortable 30-minute session. The slightly reclined backrest is particularly enjoyable, allowing for relaxation rather than a rigid sitting posture. The scheduling feature has become a highlight, enabling me to set the sauna to preheat at a convenient time, ensuring it's always ready for use.

Regarding maintenance, the sauna continues to emit the pleasant scent of hemlock, and so far, I've noticed no significant wear or damage. To protect the wood from sweat, I use towels during sessions, keeping upkeep minimal. As for energy costs, I estimate the sauna adds about $22 per month to my electric bill, which seems reasonable for the benefits it provides.

In conclusion, the Plunge Infrared Sauna strikes a balance between design, functionality, and comfort, making it a worthy investment for those committed to enhancing their wellness at home. While the initial costs may be steep, the long-term benefits and experience it offers can justify the price for dedicated users.

Source: www.architecturaldigest.com