Made in Canada by Homecraft, the Apex is a floor-standing electric sauna heater designed for large residential or commercial saunas. Power for this version is 208V three phase.

How it works

Heat is directed into the sauna's rock mass while a protected element air chamber shields the heating elements, for even heat through the room. Plan for up to 325 lbs (147 kg) of igneous rocks, 3 to 6 in in size, and make sure the floor is solid enough to carry that load.

Sizing

Size by room volume:

• 12 kW: 450 to 750 cu ft
• 15 kW: 600 to 950 cu ft
• 18 kW: 690 to 1,150 cu ft

Comes in 12, 15 or 18 kW, paired with rocks and the installation trim kit. A floor plate and a ceiling shield are required for every size.

Electrical (208V three phase)

• 12 kW: 33.4 A, 50 A breaker, 6 gauge copper wire
• 15 kW: 41.7 A, 60 A breaker, 6 gauge copper wire
• 18 kW: 48 A, 60 A breaker, 6 gauge copper wire

Wire the high limit manual reset switch into the circuit, as the manual requires. GFI breakers may stop the heater from working properly and are not recommended unless local code requires them.

Installation

• Heater size: 18 in diameter x 36 in high
• Clearance to combustibles: 5.5 in
• Minimum distance to ceiling: 48 in
• Minimum ceiling height: 7 ft; the manual requires a heat shield for the 18 kW at a 7 ft ceiling, and a ceiling shield is required for every size

Controls and warranty

Rocks and controls are sold separately, and every Homecraft heater needs a relay contactor box to run. Certification is CSA and UL. Homecraft gives a 2-year warranty when the heater is used according to the manual, or 1 year for commercial installations; heating elements are not covered.