How Much Electricity Does a Sauna Use?

​Many of you have shared concerns about rising energy costs lately, and it’s no surprise that the cost of electricity is raising questions about home saunas as well. To get a clearer picture, let’s take a closer look at the costs of owning a home sauna and what you can expect to pay to run an electric sauna heater.

To help you make a smart and informed decision, I’ve also included a few tips on the factors that influence sauna prices and how you can make your sauna sessions more energy-efficient.

Let’s dive in!

Types of Home Saunas and Their Electricity Requirements

​When choosing a home sauna, it’s important to consider not just the type of sauna but also how much electricity it will use. Different saunas have unique heating methods and energy requirements, which can significantly impact your utility bills. 

Let’s explore the main types of home saunas and their electricity needs to help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and budget.

1. Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas typically need the best heaters rated between 2 and 8 kilowatts (kW), depending on their size. If you’re running your sauna for an hour, you’re consuming 2 to 8 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. Depending on your local rates, this can significantly add up, especially if you’re a frequent user.

Think about this: If electricity in your area costs $0.15 per kWh, an hour-long session in a 6-kW sauna will set you back around $0.90. It may not sound like much, but regular use will make a noticeable difference on your monthly bill. If you’re ready to invest in that authentic sauna experience and don’t mind the higher costs, traditional saunas are worth it.

2. Infrared Saunas
Whether utility costs are a concern or you're seeking a more modern and energy-efficient option, an infrared sauna might be a perfect choice. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, these saunas use infrared panels to warm your body directly.

Here’s the good news: infrared saunas generally use less electricity. Most models require around 1 to 2 kW, which translates to significantly lower energy consumption compared to traditional saunas. If you’re keeping an eye on your electricity bill, this might be a great choice.

3. Portable Saunas
For those short on space or on a tighter budget, portable saunas are a fantastic option for your home. These compact units are designed for one person and use far less power than their larger counterparts. Typically, they consume around 0.5 to 1.5 kW, depending on the size and design. Plus, they’re easy to set up and pack away when you’re done. It’s relaxation, simplified!

4. Steam Rooms (Bonus Mention) 
Okay, steam rooms aren’t technically saunas, but they’re often grouped in the same category. If you’re thinking about adding one to your home, know that steam generators can use anywhere from 2 to 9 kW. While the experience is more humid and spa-like, the energy costs can rival or even exceed those of a traditional sauna.

Whether you like the traditional experience, the modern efficiency of infrared, or the portability of portable alternatives, there is a sauna to suit your relaxation goals and energy requirements. 

Bonus: If you are looking forward to building your own sauna at home, you should be aware of how much a sauna will cost you.

At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the balance between comfort and cost. After all, your sauna should be a place where you can relax—not stress about your electricity bill!

Calculating Electricity Costs for Your Home Sauna

Curious about how much it costs to run a sauna? Whether it’s traditional, infrared, or outdoor, understanding electricity costs is key. The good news? Once you know your sauna’s energy needs, the answer is simple. Let’s break it down!

Step 1: Know Your Sauna’s Electrical Requirements
Different saunas have unique energy requirements. Infrared saunas are generally more energy-efficient, consuming between 1 and 3 kilowatts (kW) per hour. In contrast, traditional electric saunas, depending on their size, use between 3 and 8 kW per hour. Outdoor saunas often demand even more power due to insulation and climate factors.
If you’re curious about how much electricity an infrared sauna uses, it’s typically on the lower end, thanks to its efficient direct heating method.

Step 2: Calculate Energy Usage
Once you know your sauna’s power rating (in kW), estimate how long you’ll use it. Let’s say your infrared sauna uses 2 kW, and you run it for an hour three times a week. That’s 2 kW × 3 hours = 6 kWh of energy per week.

If you’re asking, does a sauna use a lot of electricity? You’ll find that it depends on how often and how long it’s used. Infrared saunas generally lead to lower electricity bills compared to traditional electric saunas.

Step 3: Check Local Electricity Rates
Electricity rates in the US vary, but the average cost is around 13 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). So, to calculate your sauna electricity cost, multiply your sauna’s energy usage by your local rate. For example:

• Infrared sauna: 6 kWh/week × $0.13 = $0.78 per week
• Traditional sauna (6 kW, 3 hours/week): 18 kWh/week × $0.13 = $2.34 per week

This means an infrared sauna electric bill is typically much smaller than a traditional sauna’s.

Step 4: Account for Efficiency
If the numbers feel high, consider energy-saving tips. Shorter sessions, proper insulation, and scheduling usage during off-peak energy times can help. For outdoor sauna electrical requirements, ensure proper insulation to prevent heat loss, which can increase costs.

Step 5: Compare Electric Saunas to Alternatives
For those considering options, the debate between electric vs. wood saunas often comes up. While wood-fired saunas eliminate electricity costs, they require consistent wood supply and maintenance. For convenience and predictability, electric saunas remain the go-to choice for many.

So, how much does it cost to run an electric sauna? The answer depends on the type of sauna, its electrical requirements, and your usage habits. For most, the cost is surprisingly manageable, especially with energy-efficient infrared models. With a little planning, you can enjoy your sauna without worrying about a spike in your electricity bill!

Tips to Reduce Sauna Electricity Costs

If you’ve been wondering what influences how much electricity your sauna uses, you’re not alone. There are several key factors to consider, and understanding them can help you strike the perfect balance between energy efficiency and comfort.

• Electricity Costs Depend on Your Sauna’s Size

Size makes a big difference, as larger saunas require more energy to heat, while a compact two-person sauna uses far less electricity. Choosing the right size for your needs is an easy way to manage energy consumption.

• A Well Insulated Sauna Prevents Heat To Escape 

Think about insulation as a well-insulated sauna retains heat more effectively, reducing the workload on your heater. On the other hand, poor insulation allows heat to escape, leading to wasted energy and higher costs.

• Choose Energy-Efficient Sauna Types

The type of sauna you choose also matters because infrared saunas are more energy-efficient since they heat your body directly, unlike traditional saunas that heat the surrounding air.

• Optimize Usage to Save Energy

Finally, your usage habits play a role. Long, frequent sessions naturally increase electricity use, but you can reduce this by scheduling shorter sessions or using a timer.

By considering these factors, you can keep your sauna sessions enjoyable and your electric bill under control. It’s all about making smart choices that prioritize both relaxation and efficiency!

Comparing Sauna Electricity Costs to Common Household Appliances

Ever wondered how your sauna compares to other household appliances in terms of electricity usage? 

The answer might surprise you! 
Saunas, especially energy-efficient options like infrared models, are often easier on your electric bill than you might expect.

Let’s break it down.
 A typical infrared sauna consumes around 1 to 3 kilowatts (kW) per hour, roughly the same as a blow dryer or a space heater. On the other hand, a traditional sauna uses between 3 to 8 kW per hour, similar to an electric oven on high heat or a central air conditioner running at full capacity.

The key difference? 
Saunas are used for shorter bursts. While your refrigerator runs continuously or your air conditioner hums along for hours, a sauna session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. This limited usage means your sauna’s impact on your electric bill is usually much smaller than other appliances.

So, if you’re worried about energy costs, take a deep breath and relax. Your sauna is likely a guilt-free luxury!

You Might Also Want To Read 7 Things To Know Before Installing A 2 Person Sauna

FAQs: How Much Electricity Does a Sauna Use?

How much electricity does a sauna use per session?
The electricity used depends on the sauna type and session length. Traditional electric saunas consume 3kW to 9kW per hour, while infrared saunas are more efficient, using only 1kW to 2kW per hour. For a typical 30-minute session, expect to use half of these amounts.

Are infrared saunas more cost-effective than traditional saunas?
Yes! Infrared saunas are far more cost-effective because they use less power and operate at lower temperatures. While traditional saunas heat the entire room, infrared saunas target your body directly, consuming less energy overall.

How can I lower the electricity cost of running a sauna?
To reduce costs, focus on proper insulation to retain heat, minimize preheating times, and use a smart timer to control usage. Opting for energy-efficient heaters or upgrading to an infrared sauna can further cut electricity bills.

Conclusion

So, how much electricity does a sauna use? As we’ve seen, the answer depends on factors like type, size, insulation, and usage. Infrared saunas are more energy-efficient, using 1 to 3 kW per hour, while traditional models consume 3 to 8 kW per hour. Thankfully, because sauna sessions are short, the overall impact on your electricity bill is often minimal.

By focusing on proper insulation, managing session length, and choosing energy-efficient models, you can enjoy your sauna without worrying about costs. For the best results, partnering with experts who understand sauna electrical requirements is essential.

That’s where Steam and Sauna Experts come in. They specialize in creating energy-efficient, customized sauna solutions tailored to your needs. With their help, you’ll get the perfect setup that balances comfort and savings.
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Ready to transform your sauna experience? Reach out to us today and relax with confidence!

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