Saunas and Your Electric Bill - Keeping Costs Low

Owning a sauna is a wonderful way to bring relaxation and wellness into your daily life. However, one common question among new sauna owners is how their electric bill will be impacted.

The truth is, different types of saunas use energy differently, so the effect on your bill can vary. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect based on the type of sauna you choose.

Traditional Saunas

Traditional saunas (also known as Finnish saunas) use electric heaters to warm up the air, which in turn heats the body. These saunas typically take 30-45 minutes to heat up, and they operate at higher temperatures (150-195°F), meaning they can consume more energy. Depending on how often you use your sauna and for how long, you may see a moderate to significant increase in your electric bill. A typical 6 kW heater running for an hour can cost anywhere from $0.50 to $1, depending on local electricity rates.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas work differently by using infrared heaters to warm your body directly, rather than the air around you. They operate at lower temperatures (120-150°F) and tend to use less energy. Infrared saunas heat up quickly and don’t require the long warm-up times of traditional saunas. On average, they consume about 1.6 kW of energy per session, which means a much smaller impact on your electric bill, usually in the range of $0.20 to $0.50 per hour.

Steam Saunas

Steam saunas, or steam rooms, heat water to create steam, which fills the space and raises the humidity. They require less power compared to traditional saunas because they don’t need to reach such high temperatures, but they do use additional water, which could also influence your utility bills. The energy cost is generally comparable to an infrared sauna, but it varies based on how much steam is needed and how often the sauna is used.

Portable Saunas

If you’re using a portable sauna, the energy usage will be on the lower end of the spectrum. These smaller units generally operate at 1.5 kW or less, making their energy consumption minimal. Portable saunas are perfect for those who want the sauna experience with minimal impact on their electric bill.

Conclusion

The type of sauna you choose will have a direct impact on how much your electric bill changes.

Traditional saunas are likely to have the biggest effect, while infrared and portable saunas tend to be more energy-efficient. Ultimately, the best sauna for your lifestyle will depend on your preferences and budget.

Not sure which sauna is right for you?

Take our Sauna Selector Quiz at Sweet Life Saunas to find the perfect fit for your home and energy needs. Start living the sweet life today!