The Cost Of Operating an Infrared Sauna

At Rubberduck Bathrooms we are big fans of Infrared saunas. You can read all about the benefits of an infrared sauna here and the health benefits of saunas here. But How much do they cost to run?

The cost of running an infrared sauna mainly depends on factors such as the size of the sauna you purchase, the wattage of the heater (normally larger the larger the sauna), how often the sauna is used, and the current electricity rates and your supplier.

Generally, infrared saunas are more energy efficient and have lower operating costs compared to a traditional saunas. To estimate the electricity usage of your home sauna, you can divide the wattage of your saunas heater by 1000 to give you its KW and then multiply this by your electricity suppliers cost per KWH to give you an optimum estimate cost. How ever this cost may be reduced buy the reasons explained below and by using your sauna efficiently.

Optimizing Energy Efficiency: The True Cost of Operating an Infrared Sauna

Running an infrared sauna proves to be remarkably energy-efficient, with most units consuming a modest 1.2 to 2.4 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per hour. Determining the operational cost of your infrared sauna is a straightforward task – just multiply the usage by your electricity rate. For instance, According to the Energy Saving Trust, the national average price (as of October 2022) per pence/kWh of electricity is £0.34, so if your sauna features a 2kWh heater, an hour of operation would cost £0.68 (2kWh x £0.34).

The majority of the energy usage is used during heating up and keeping the sauna up to temperature as the heater are running, this means that’s the running cost of the sauna will reduce once up to temperature and depending on the temperature set and how often the door is opened releasing the heat can all have a factor.

Variables Influencing Infrared Sauna Operating Expenses

Several factors influence the overall cost of running an infrared sauna:

1. Size Matters

The size of your sauna directly correlates with energy requirements, impacting operational costs. Larger saunas often have larger heaters which demand more energy to obtain optimal heating, thereby increasing running expenses. Larger saunas also require longer warm up times, increasing the running costs.

2. Frequency of Use

How frequently you indulge in sauna sessions directly determines the cumulative operating costs. Mindful usage can significantly contribute to cost savings over time. For example using the sauna while its still warm from a previous user reduces warm up time and thereby reduces cost.

3. Insulation Impact

Investing in a well-insulated sauna pays dividends. Enhanced insulation retains heat effectively, leading to reduced energy consumption and subsequent cost savings.

4. Temperature Choices

Opting for higher sauna temperatures translates to increased energy consumption and, consequently, augmented operational costs. Striking a balance between comfort and cost is essential.

5. Energy Rates

The cost of electricity and your energy contract plays a pivotal role in determining the total expense of operating your infrared sauna. Being aware of these rates ensures better financial planning.

Strategic Sauna Selection for Cost Efficiency

Choosing the right infrared sauna model is critical in minimising long-term operational costs. Consider the following tips:

1. Energy-Efficient Models

Opt for saunas with low kWh heater ratings and additional energy-saving features. Manufacturers often provide detailed specifications to aid in comparing running costs and making informed decisions.

2. Maximising Efficiency Tips

Implement the following tips to maximise efficiency and reduce electricity usage:

a. Preheating Strategy

Limit preheat time or skip it altogether if the sauna quickly reaches the desired temperature. This simple adjustment can lead to substantial energy savings.

b. Regular Maintenance

Keep your infrared sauna clean and well-maintained to ensure optimal performance. Regular upkeep contributes to prolonged efficiency.

c. Timer Usage

Set a timer for your sauna sessions to prevent overuse and unnecessary energy consumption. This controlled approach helps manage costs effectively.

d. Insulation Evaluation

Assess the insulation quality of both the sauna itself and its external environment. Minimising heat loss through strategic insulation practices contributes to overall efficiency and cost reduction.

e. Environmental / ambient temperatures

Installing your sauna in a cold location, ie a garage or summer house, where the temperatures are reduces, increases the amount of energy required to increase the temperature inside the sauna and keep the temperature. Be mindful of where you install the sauna and how it can effect the running costs.

By understanding the factors influencing infrared sauna costs and adopting a strategic approach, users can not only enjoy the benefits but also ensure a pocket-friendly and energy-efficient experience.