Why We’re Building Tova for 110V — Not 220V
When we started designing the Tova pellet sauna stove, we had to decide: Should it use 220V like many electric heaters, or something different?
We chose 110V — not as a shortcut, but as a design choice that aligns with our focus on fire-first heating and modern convenience.
1. 110V Is More Accessible
Most North American homes and cabins already use 110V circuits, while 220V circuits are less common and often require additional electrical work. By sticking with 110V for our control system, Tova fits into a broader range of sauna builds without unnecessary installation hurdles.
2. We Don’t Need High Voltage for Heat
Traditional electric saunas need 220V because they rely on electricity to create all of their heat. Tova doesn’t. The fire does the work of heating.
The 110V line only powers the essentials:
Automatic ignition
Pellet feed motors
Temperature sensors and safety features
For us, fire is at the core of authentic sauna. (We explored this in our post on why fire is best for a sauna.)
3. Easier for Remote or Off-Grid Builds
Tova is designed for real-world sauna lovers — including those building retreats in cabins or remote locations. 110V controls are easier to integrate with small solar setups or generators than 220V, making Tova ideal for off-grid projects.
4. Complements Hardwired Installations
Whether you’re working on a permanent sauna or something custom, 110V wiring is easier to work with while still providing robust, reliable control for the system. This approach reduces complexity without reducing performance.
5. No Performance Trade-Off
Our fire-based design still heats stones to 400–500°C, producing the rolling steam (löyly) that makes a sauna truly special. You can read more about the physics of löyly and why stone heat matters in our recent deep dive.
The Bottom Line
Tova doesn’t need 220V because we’re not trying to replace fire with electricity. By designing for 110V controls, we’ve made Tova:
Easier to install
More compatible with modern and off-grid saunas
Ready to deliver authentic, fire-driven heat
You can learn more about how different sauna stove designs compare — and why pellets are the future — in our blog archive.