The Truth About Emissivity

Efficient Heating

Eco-Friendly Construction

Excellent Warranty
What Is Emissivity?
Emissivity is a material’s ability to emit infrared radiation compared to a perfect emitter, which has a value of 1.0. In simpler terms, it tells you how efficiently a surface gives off the heat your body can absorb. Infrared saunas don’t rely on hot air like traditional saunas. Instead, they use infrared heat, which must reach your body through effective emission. That means emissivity directly impacts your sauna’s performance—and the health benefits you feel.
Real People, Real Results
Most Crucial Wellness Investment
Not All Emissivity Claims Are Created Equal
Despite its importance, emissivity is often misunderstood—and in some cases, misrepresented. Testing methods, assumptions, and even data interpretation can vary greatly. Some tests only measure reflectivity at a single angle or within a narrow infrared spectrum. Others don’t consider the way real materials behave at operational temperatures.
A common approach involves testing reflectivity at a 45-degree angle and using a simple formula:
Emissivity = 1 – Reflectivity
This equation assumes that all unreflected energy is absorbed and therefore emitted. While this can be valid in theory, it breaks down in practice if:
- Only specular reflection (mirror-like) is captured
- Diffuse reflection from rough or matte surfaces is ignored
- Testing is done at room temperature
- The infrared range tested excludes far-infrared wavelengths (15–100 µm), which are essential in sauna applications
Without capturing the full picture, these tests can overstate performance. These issues can all lead to inflated emissivity numbers.
Some companies often cite an emissivity of 0.9 but provide no independent testing or scientific data to support this. Moreover, they downplay the importance of emissivity. Others use tests with a reflectivity reading at only a single 45° angle. This setup only captures mirror-like (specular) reflections, not the diffuse reflections common in matte or rough heater surfaces. The result? Inflated emissivity numbers that look good on paper, but don’t reflect real-world performance.
Health Mate Sauna: Putting Accuracy First
At Health Mate, we believe in transparency. Our testing process accounts for:
- Full angular reflection, including both specular and diffuse reflections
- Surface texture effects, which impact how infrared energy is scattered or absorbed
- Wide spectral coverage, including far-infrared wavelengths that are vital to sauna function
- Realistic operating conditions.
Why does this matter? Because the efficiency of an infrared heater is not just about what it emits—it’s about what your body receives. Inflated emissivity figures can lead to design assumptions that don’t hold up in real-world use, potentially affecting user experience and results.

The Real Impact: Performance, Safety, and Trust
At Health Mate Sauna, we don’t make claims we can’t prove. Our focus is on delivering real infrared benefits backed by real testing. That means you can expect:
- Consistent, effective infrared exposure
- Stable and safe operation at true performance levels
- A product built on engineering, not exaggeration
We know that when it comes to your health, accuracy isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Why does this matter? Because the efficiency of an infrared heater is not just about what it emits—it’s about what your body receives. Inflated emissivity figures can lead to design assumptions that don’t hold up in real-world use, potentially affecting user experience and results.

In Summary

Infrared sauna performance depends on much more than marketing. Emissivity plays a critical role, but only when measured correctly. At Health Mate Sauna, we’re committed to giving you the full picture, not just the convenient one.
If you’re comparing infrared saunas, ask how their emissivity was tested. Was the full infrared spectrum considered? Were multiple angles measured? At what temperature was the material tested?
These questions matter. And we’re proud to answer them with confidence.
find your infrared sauna
Shop our selection of highly regarded infrared saunas. Health Mate’s patented Tecoloy mid- and far-infrared heaters emit a high-density, dual-wave heat that sets us apart. Our saunas include Chromotherapy, state-of-the-art LED panels, and Red-Light therapy. These features are safe and comfortable and complete your full- experience. Thanks to the unique, easy-to-assemble system, you can start enjoying your infrared sauna within minutes of delivery.

Low EMF

Chromotherapy

TecoloyTM

Easy Assembly

Red Light Therapy
What Our Customers Say
-
I bought my sauna in 2009 at the California State Fair. It was the best purchase I have ever made. It is still going strong in 2024. I think about 7 years ago there was a power surge and I had to replace the power supply. And in the first 5 years of owning the sauna, I was sent a new control panel although I didn’t have any issues with the one that was installed. So glad to see that Healthmate is still around but surprised I don’t see more marketing from them on the internet.
– Melissa R. in Sacramento, CA
Read More -
My wife and I are very happy with the sauna we purchased works great. But with anything mechanical after a few years of regular use a light on the control panel went dim. I called Health Mate and actually got to speak to a human (Heather) explained the problem and they shipped the part needed that same day. Rare to find that kind of service.
– Steve B. in Pelican Rapids Mn
Read More -
We heard of Health Mate from an associate and had a chance to hear from them how well engineered it is. We also were able to experience it first hand. All of which sold us on the spot. The purchase experience was flawless. Assembly is easy. We enjoy it every day.
– Larry L. in Tillamook, OR
Read More -
My wife has rheumatoid arthritis and has been battling breast cancer for 3 years. Her latest chance to battle is having immunotherapy which activates the immune system thereby increasing joint inflammation. A friend of ours suggested we try her Health Mate infrared sauna and my wife started feeling relief from inflammation. We discuss with the oncologist for any contradictions and we decided to buy one. I installed it in our bedroom and we quickly see the benefits. In addition to being a beautiful piece of furniture and smelling good, It is a pleasant moment of relaxation and intimacy on a daily basis where we take the time to discuss. The customer service is exceptional; having a travel constraint the sauna was delivered within a week to my door. During unpacking I noticed a small breakage on a side panel. This took 48 hours to be resolved by them.
– Dany P. in Springdale, AR
Read More -
I love the ease of the infrared sauna as opposed to a steam sauna. Set up was a breeze. The sauna seems to be great quality. I have used it many times in the few weeks I’ve had it!
– Lynn F
Read More -
A sauna has been on my wish list for a long time. Picking the Health Mate Enrich 2 person sauna was a great choice. Although it seems more suited for 1 person, I wouldn’t trade it. Heats up quick (within 20 mins) it’s ready to go. I just hope I don’t wear it out. So far 100 percent satisfaction!
– Manny A. in Garden Grove, CA
Read More
TWO WAVELENGTH CONFIGURATIONS
Our Red Light Panel offers flexibility to meet diverse therapeutic needs with two distinct wavelength configurations:
- Option 1 (Targeted NIR & Red): 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, 850nm.
- Option 2 (Broad Spectrum): 480nm (blue), 630nm, 660nm (red), 810nm, 830nm, 850nm (NIR), and 1060nm (NIR).
Dimming Control: Dimming (0-100%) can be controlled by group, allowing for tailored intensity.
DUAL WAVELENGTH

Potential Penetration Depth
-5 mm
Primary Targeted Benefits
- Skin rejuvenation
- Surface pain and inflammation

Wavelength Groups
Advanced Pulsing Technology
Elevate therapeutic outcomes with adjustable pulsing (0-40 Hertz) for the Near-Infrared (NIR) LEDs. This feature allows practitioners to modulate light delivery, potentially enhancing cellular absorption, optimizing biological rhythms, and improving treatment efficacy for specific conditions.
PULSED LIGHT WAVES



CONTINUOUS WAVE




Uncompromising Power & Coverage
Engineered for maximum efficacy, the RDPRO1500-FS delivers a potent irradiance exceeding 200 mW/cm² at a 15cm distance. Its substantial panel dimensions (91x30x6.6cm) provide extensive ‘half-body’ coverage, with a maximum treatment area of 119x61cm, ensuring efficient treatment of large areas.
Beam Angle: A focused 30-degree beam angle directs light energy precisely, minimizing scatter and maximizing absorption for optimal results.
our certifications

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.

Intertek’s ETL Listed Mark –
Health Mate Saunas are proudly Intertek (ETL) certified, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. This certification signifies that our saunas have been rigorously tested by Intertek, a globally recognized leader in product safety. The ETL mark confirms that our products meet strict North American safety standards, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of your Health Mate Sauna.
HALF-BODY RED LIGHT THERAPY
Irradiance Map













testimonials



Website design did exactly what you said it does. Just what I was looking for. Nice work on your website design.


Website design did exactly what you said it does. Just what I was looking for. Nice work on your website design.


Website design did exactly what you said it does. Just what I was looking for. Nice work on your website design.


Website design did exactly what you said it does. Just what I was looking for. Nice work on your website design.



Sauna excide expectation! Delivery was before time promised.
Excellent costumer service ,phone always prompt answered.
Excellent value ,second to none!


I bought a very lightly used sauna from a neighbor who inherited it. I really knew nothing about saunas. I was able to assemble it, and with a bit of troubleshooting make all the features function. I filled out the on-line technical service form.


Loved doing business with this company. Everything from start to finish was perfect, including the delivery and setup with their own truck and employees. Would buy from them again


As I put my sauna together, the quality and workmanship just shined. The ease in learning how to operate, and then put into my routine, was every bit as easy as the workmanship that you have put into this product. The fragrance of the wood fills the room that I’ve put the sauna in and also adds to the experience. I should’ve bought one of these years ago.


Highly recommend Health Mate Saunas. This is my second Health Mate Sauna. I had my first for 13 years before upgrading to a newer unit. Health Mate Saunas are excellent quality and well built. Knowledgable staff made ordering and shipping simple and easy. Love my sauna. I usually take sauna a couple times a week. I feel like it helps sore muscles, stress and helps my immune system.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Categories
Health Mate Sauna: Frequently Asked Questions
Health Mate is proud to offer a Limited 10-year Warranty. You can read the full warranty terms in your manual. 1. What products are covered under the warranty? Health Mate Sauna: LimitedLifetime Warranty Indoor ResidentialUse Indoor CommercialUse Product Health-Mate Sauna Cabin & Frame 10 years 1 year Health-Mate Sauna Vertical Paneling 10 years 1 year Health-Mate Sauna Flooring andBaseboard 10 years 1 year Health-Mate Sauna Door/ Glass/Hinges 10 years 1 year Health-Mate Sauna Handles & Fixtures 10 years 1 year Sauna Electronic Controls & Wiring 10 years 5 year Heater Core, Harness, and Wiring 10 years 5 year Interior Lighting Fixtures and Wiring 10 years 5 year Exterior Lighting Fixtures and Components 10 years 5 year Interior Audio Fixtures and Components 10 years 5 year Labor of Factory Installed Component 10 years 5 year Upgrades, Options, Parts & Accessories Per Manufacturer’s Warranty Unless OtherwiseNoted at Sale or Contract 2. What is covered for the sauna cabin, frame, hardware, and components? 3. Are non-factory installed parts, components, options, and accessories covered? 4. Are there any implied warranties? 5. What are the limitations and exclusions of the warranty? 6. Does the warranty cover labor, transportation, or other costs? 7. How can I register my product for warranty? 8. How do I obtain warranty service? For technical support or additional questions, please contact us over the phone. Health Mate has been manufacturing quality in-home infrared saunas for over 4 decades. Our wide selection of infrared saunas for sale ensures there’s something for everyone.

Download our therapy guide
Get all the information you need at once. What is the best temperature setting for my infrared sauna? What kind of wood are Health Mate saunas made of? What does low EMF mean?
Fill in the form and we’ll email you the brochure right away!
Health Mate blog
-
Infrared: Key To A Healthier Metabolism
You’ve heard people talk about their metabolism, how fast it is and how they may be working to keep it healthy. Everyone…
-
Can Infrared Saunas Help You Live Healthier?
The health benefits of infrared saunas and general sauna therapy have long been discussed by the medical community. Many study results have…
















