For multi-dwelling developments, BASIX assesses the energy usage of saunas based on:
- the heating source for the sauna; and
- the sauna efficiency measure.
BASIX does not apply to saunas installed as part of new single-unit homes or as part of an alteration to an existing home.
Sauna heat sources
BASIX recognises the following heat sources for saunas:
- Electric infrared
- Gas
- Electric resistance
Electric infared or gas saunas are the most efficient types and will give a higher BASIX score than saunas heated with electric resistance.
Sauna efficiency measures
BASIX recognises the following efficiency measures for saunas:
- Push button timer (manual push button which switches sauna on for a set period of time, with an automatic off)
- Controlled by BMS (Building management system) (sauna automatically turned on and off according to a preset schedule as part of a computer driven building management system)
- Stand-by function (sauna goes onto stand-by mode when not in use)
The most efficient measure for saunas is the push button timer, and the least efficient measure is none.