kiukaat

Kiuas is a Finnish word referring to a sauna stove, the central heating element in a traditional Finnish sauna. The kiuas heats the sauna room to the desired temperature and is also used to heat stones that produce steam when water is ladled onto them. These stoves have evolved over time, from open wood-fired hearths to modern electric models.

Historically, wood-burning kiukaat were the standard. These large masonry structures were built within or adjacent to the sauna room and heated by burning wood. The heat from the fire would warm the stones placed above it, and also radiate into the sauna space. This method required significant time for heating and careful management of the fire.

Today, electric kiukaat are very common, particularly in urban settings. These units are convenient, offering quick heating and precise temperature control through thermostats. They typically consist of heating elements that heat the sauna stones. Both wood-burning and electric kiukaat have their proponents, with some appreciating the distinct aroma and ambiance of a wood-fired sauna, while others prefer the ease and control of an electric one. The stones used in a kiukaus are usually dense, heat-retaining rocks like olivine or peridotite, which can withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles.