Can you throw water on the stones in an electric sauna heater?

We often hear the question: can you pour water on the stones in an electric sauna so that it doesn’t damage the heater or ruin the sauna experience?

Yes, you can – but only if safety principles are followed and you want a more effective steam.
Let’s take a closer look at how to use water correctly in a sauna with an electric heater, how to achieve the ideal steam, and what to avoid to protect both your sauna and your health.

Why is steam important in the sauna?

Steam plays an important role in sauna tradition.
While the dry sauna air and high temperature promote sweating and relaxation, the air can become uncomfortably dry.
Throwing water onto the hot stones – creating steam – increases humidity and raises the perceived temperature, making the sauna environment warmer and more soothing.
Creating steam is not just about adding water – it is about finding balance: heat, humidity, and rhythm must all be in place.
When done correctly, it significantly enhances the physical and mental benefits of the sauna session.

The stones must be properly heated

It’s only right to start throwing water once the stones are hot enough for the water to evaporate completely.

To test this:

• Throw a small amount of water (about 80 ml) on the stones;
• If you notice water running out from under the heater, it means you poured too much water or the stones weren’t hot enough.
• For preparing sauna stones, read our detailed guide: How to prepare heater stones before use.
• There, we cover everything from washing to tempering, so the stones are always steam-ready.Use clean, warm water for steam
• For every sauna session, use only clean and warm water.
• To prevent stones from cracking due to sudden temperature changes, it’s wise to use hot tap water.
• The water should be clean, and if possible, avoid very hard or iron-rich water.
• Clean water = clean steam, supporting respiratory and skin health in every sauna visit.
• Throw water in small amounts
• We recommend pouring about 80 ml of water at a time.
• If you want more steam, wait a few minutes before adding the same amount again. This allows the stones to dry and reheat.
• If water runs out from under the heater, it means you poured too much or the stones weren’t hot enough.
• A proper electric heater must be designed for steam – only then can you enjoy an authentic sauna experience safely.
  

More stones = softer steam

HUUM heaters are inspired by natural forms and hold a large quantity of stones, which means soft and long-lasting steam. Our heaters’ design is clean and minimalistic, highlighting the natural beauty of the stones.

To ensure safety and effectiveness:

• Use only the stones recommended by the manufacturer (e.g., HUUM rounded olivine diabase).
• Follow the stone placement and maintenance instructions.
• With the right heater, steam becomes a natural and safe part of your sauna experience.
  

Respect the rhythm of steam

To experience the true essence of sauna culture, respect the rhythm of steam.
Pouring water onto hot stones is not just a practical action – it’s a ritual.
The rise in humidity and temperature not only makes the sauna warmer but also improves circulation, opens pores, and deepens relaxation.
Take your time, breathe deeply in the enriched air, and allow your body to naturally respond to the changing conditions.
The sauna is not a race. Heating, steam, cooling, and rest form a harmonious cycle.

Learn the right sauna temperatures

To get the most from your sauna experience, know the right temperatures.
It is important to recognize when the stones are hot enough and which temperatures suit your body.
Read more in our blog post: What temperature should a sauna be?

Discover the art of steam

Discover the art of creating steam with confidence and awareness.
Yes, you can pour water on stones in an electric sauna heater – provided the heater is designed for it, the stones are hot, and you throw water mindfully.
By following these time-tested principles, you’ll achieve deeper relaxation, better air quality, and a true connection with one of the world’s oldest wellness rituals.

Source: HUUM

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