Do Home Saunas Use a Lot of Electricity? [2025 Guide]

If you’re asking, ‘Do home saunas use a lot of electricity?’ the answer depends on the type. Traditional electric saunas typically use 3-6 kW per session, while infrared models are more efficient at 1.5-2.5 kW. Factors like size, insulation, and usage frequency all affect energy consumption.

This means the cost to run a sauna can greatly fluctuate. It’s affordable with the energy-efficient models on the market today. Knowing how much electricity your sauna will need allows you to make plans to use it without racking up surprise charges.

In this post, I’ll unpack how much energy different types of saunas use. I’ll be sharing ways to make the most of them so you don’t waste electricity and money.

Do Home Saunas Use Much Electricity?

If you’re wondering, ‘Do home saunas use a lot of electricity?’ it’s important to know the costs, whether you’re buying your first sauna or already own one. A typical home sauna uses about 9 to 13 kWh per one-hour session, including preheating time. Understanding this helps you make energy-conscious decisions for relaxation and savings.

This energy use varies based on factors such as sauna type, size, and insulation quality. If you have a more standard electric heater that is rated at 6 kilowatts and used every day, this typical usage will run you about $32.40 per month, assuming an average rate of $0.12 per kWh.

Understanding Home Sauna Electricity Usage:

In comparison, traditional saunas use about 225 kWh on a monthly basis. Infrared saunas are a much more efficient option, taking an average of 120 kWh.

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? The answer depends on several key factors. Sauna type, usage frequency, and session length all significantly impact energy consumption. Regular users will see higher electricity costs, while occasional bathers enjoy savings. Infrared models typically cost less to operate than traditional steam saunas.

In addition, humidifying the sauna affects how efficiently a sauna heats up. For example, during colder months, your sauna will need to work harder to reach the desired temperature, raising costs.

So in terms of sauna energy use compared to other things in your home, it’s clear that saunas have their own category. Infrared saunas usually require about 1.6 kW. This unique design allows for this lower wattage, making them less demanding compared to traditional models, which usually require 3.0 to 4.0 kW.

To keep electricity use minimal, invest in smart technology. Using programmable timers for your sauna will make it more convenient for you while saving energy. Simple upkeep, like regular cleaning and ensuring proper insulation, can further improve energy efficiency and reduce overall expenses.

Traditional Saunas: Power Consumption Explained

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Traditional models with electric heaters typically consume 4.5 kW to 9 kW, as they directly convert electricity to heat via heated stones. This straightforward heating process explains their higher energy use compared to infrared alternatives. The exact consumption depends on the heater size and session duration.

This resistive heating method is extremely efficient. To prevent excessive energy consumption, you need to strategically position the heaters/fans to evenly distribute heat in the sauna room.

How Traditional Sauna Heaters Work

The whole process starts when the sauna heater warms the stones, conjuring the magic that heats the sauna space. With the same average temperature across all four seasons, this method uses about 9 to 13 kW when heating it all up initially.

Once the sauna reaches the target temperature, energy consumption decreases to approximately 3 to 4 kW. This efficiency is especially important for keeping overall energy consumption in check while still offering the full sauna experience.

Average Electricity Usage of Traditional Saunas

For a traditional sauna running for 75 minutes daily—45 minutes for heating and 30 minutes of use—the monthly consumption hits approximately 225 kWh. Assuming an average electricity cost of $0.12 per kWh, that comes out to roughly $27 a month.

Because of that temperature differential, a smaller sauna will always use less energy than a bigger model. It’s pretty straightforward, but the heater’s wattage directly affects how much electricity they use.

Factors Affecting Traditional Sauna Energy Use

There are a number of factors that affect energy usage in traditional saunas. Proper insulation goes a long way toward creating an efficient heating environment, as the energy required to feel warm can be lowered.

User habits, for example,e session length and frequency, are a key factor. In colder climates, outdoor temperatures can play a significant role in how much energy is needed to maintain a comfortable sauna environment.

Infrared Saunas: A Different Approach to Energy

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Infrared models offer an energy-efficient alternative by directly warming your body with penetrating rays rather than heating the entire room. This targeted approach uses significantly less power than traditional saunas while delivering deep, therapeutic heat.

This approach requires much lower operating temperatures and thus a much reduced energy consumption. Infrared heaters generally require 1-3 kW per hour. That’s similar to a blow dryer or space heater, but infrared heaters are even more affordable to operate.

How Infrared Sauna Heaters Work

Infrared sauna heaters utilize infrared radiation technology. This radiation penetrates your skin and warms you up from the inside out.

This direct heating method delivers fast results, with benefits felt in just 30 minutes—unlike traditional saunas that take an hour or longer to heat up. After your session, you may wonder how long to wait to shower after infrared sauna. A brief 10-15 minute cooldown is ideal to allow your body to regulate temperature and enhance detoxification.

Like the in-home option, the installation of infrared sauna systems is simple, frequently needing a smaller footprint and level of infrastructure than traditional models.

Average Electricity Usage of Infrared Saunas

When used 40 minutes a day, at most, infrared saunas use about 120 kWh a month. This is in sharp contrast to traditional saunas, which can use up to 70 times the energy.

Smaller infrared models save even more due to their compact design needing less energy to heat.

Session Length

Your session length will directly affect your electric bill, as shorter session lengths will result in a lower electric bill by default.

Factors Affecting Infrared Sauna Energy Use

User habits are the largest variable affecting energy consumption, as is the frequency of use. Cost-conscious regular users who take full advantage of the sauna’s potential can keep costs in check.

Along with proper insulation, aesthetics, and thoughtful design play major roles in increasing energy efficiency. They deliver the heat exactly where you want it.

Finally, the wattage of the heaters has a direct effect on total energy use, so it’s important to select an energy-efficient model.

Traditional vs. Infrared: Energy Use Comparison

When deciding whether an infrared sauna is better than a regular sauna, energy efficiency is a key factor. Infrared saunas heat up faster, use less energy, and offer a more comfortable experience at lower temperatures compared to traditional saunas. These differences in heating time, user comfort, and long-term operating costs can help you determine which option best suits your needs.

Heating Time and Energy Consumption

Traditional saunas can take 30 to 60 minutes to preheat, which consumes more electricity in the process. This faster warming allows you to use less energy overall, saving you money on your electricity bill. Preheating is key to a great sauna experience.

Wondering ‘do home saunas use a lot of electricity’? Smart scheduling makes a difference. Only heat your sauna when needed, and use timers or smart thermostats to pre-warm it before use. These simple habits can significantly reduce energy costs while maintaining perfect relaxation temperatures.

User Experience and Energy Efficiency

User comfort is where the difference between traditional and infrared saunas becomes apparent. Traditional saunas use heat and humidity to produce a high perspiration rate. In comparison, infrared saunas provide more direct heat, which more sauna users prefer.

This comfort brings with it a very real value. Sensible energy use improves the sauna experience. Energy-efficient designs in infrared saunas, like improved insulation, make for a more enjoyable sauna experience.

Ultimately, though, it does all come down to personal preference. Some people will want the big display of traditional methods, while others will appreciate the speed and efficiency of infrared.

Long-Term Energy Costs

Long-term energy use costs are an important factor. Since infrared saunas typically have higher operating costs, this can offset the higher initial investment over time. Opt for energy-efficient models and you’ll see dramatic savings on your monthly utility bills.

It promotes a longer lifespan for the sauna system while improving its performance. When buying, pay attention to long-term financial effects—the one you choose may save you a lot of money.

Sauna Heater Types and Efficiency

Knowing the various types of sauna heaters will help you select the most energy-efficient option for your space and preferences. Each type has widely varying characteristics that affect energy consumption, convenience, and performance.

Electric Sauna Heaters

Electric sauna heaters use electric coils to create heat that quickly warms the sauna. They usually need only 4.5 to 9 kW, depending on the size. Their main benefit? Convenience.

These devices are quite user-friendly, heat up quickly, and have programmable features built in. In the long run, these systems become less expensive. Unlike wood-burning sauna heaters, they allow accurate control of the temperature and greatly reduce heat loss possibilities.

Wattage has the biggest effect on energy in general. More wattage means things will heat up faster, but it can raise your electric bill through the roof if you’re not careful.

Wood-Burning Sauna Heaters

Wood-burning sauna heaters offer a truly authentic sauna experience, and with the lovely natural feel and aroma of burning wood, they attract many sauna enthusiasts. They tend to have higher maintenance requirements, such as consistent delivery of wood and ash removal.

Though they may burn more energy than electric models, they provide an unparalleled ambiance.

Environmental Impact

Outside of efficiency, the biggest environmental consideration of sauna heaters is the impact of which wood you choose to use.

Other Sauna Heater Options

Alternative heating options like gas and hybrid models combined are growing in popularity.

Convenience and Cost

Gas heaters usually offer quick heating and may be more cost-effective in regions with natural gas. Yet, their efficiency can’t always compete with electric heaters.

Hybrid models that incorporate both electric and wood-burning features provide flexibility, but you’ll need to manage the two fuel sources diligently.

Selecting the best sauna heater type ensures a better sauna experience while improving energy efficiency.

Is It Expensive to Run a Home Sauna?

Now let’s talk about how expensive it is to run a home sauna by breaking it down into one-time and recurring costs. All of these factors are important to take into account to ensure you’re making the right decisions for your new investment.

Initial Costs vs. Running Costs

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Your upfront costs give the first clue – traditional saunas (3,000−3,000−6,000) typically consume more power than infrared models (1,500−1,500−5,000). Remember to factor in 2,000−2,000−4,000 for installation, as proper setup also affects long-term energy efficiency.

These upfront costs are a big deal, but the running costs are just as big a deal. For context, an average sauna uses about 3-6 kWh per session. Then consider running it three times a week. At an average electricity rate of $0.13 per kWh, that’s $8 to $15 a month just in electricity costs. Selecting energy-efficient sauna models can reduce these costs over time.

Factors Influencing Running Costs

There are a lot of different factors that influence what your running costs will be. Your local electricity rates will have a substantial impact on this. For example, if you have a much higher tiered rate, such as $0.18 per kWh, your monthly cost will be higher.

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Usage frequency makes the biggest difference – daily sessions cost significantly more than weekly use. Regular maintenance also matters, as a well-maintained sauna runs more efficiently, lasts longer, and avoids energy-wasting repairs that drive up bills.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

Once you start using your sauna regularly, the cost of sauna ownership becomes obvious. Energy-efficient models provide savings of hundreds of dollars, often making up their additional upfront cost in just a few months of lower energy bills.

Further, these more efficient saunas can offer you superior resale value if you choose to sell. By investing upfront in durable materials, you reduce replacement costs and maintain your sauna as a valuable asset for decades.

Lower Your Sauna’s Energy Consumption

Using a home sauna can be a great way to relax and unwind, but it’s essential to understand how to manage energy consumption effectively. By taking a few sensible approaches, you can relish the many benefits of your sauna while reducing your wallet’s burden and helping the planet.

Choose Energy-Efficient Models

Choosing an energy-efficient sauna model is key to ensuring long-term energy savings. High-efficiency heaters and designs make sure you receive the maximum benefit for every bit of energy you invest.

Choose models with high energy ratings. These are usually a sign of a more efficient sauna design and operation. Putting money into these strategies will save you tons of dollars on your electricity bills in the long run.

It’s a cost-effective decision that will save you money while protecting the environment.

Improve Sauna Insulation

The insulation of your sauna is probably the single most important variable that affects how much power your sauna will consume. To improve insulation, go around your sauna looking for gaps in the walls and door seals, making sure that heat isn’t escaping.

For new saunas, plan to install insulation materials or modify and improve the insulation that is already there. A sauna that uses good insulation will hold in the heat.

This increased efficiency will save you energy as you heat your sauna to the perfect temperature.

Checklist for Sauna Insulation:

• Inspect for gaps and leaks
• Upgrade insulation materials
• Seal windows and doors
• Ensure proper ventilation

Optimize Sauna Usage Habits

This is the point where you can save the most energy by changing how you use your sauna. Scheduling your sauna sessions during off-peak electricity hours will help you keep costs down.

Shortening the length of your sauna sessions is an easy, effective way to save energy.

Best Practices for Efficient Sauna Use:

• Limit sessions to 20-30 minutes
• Use the sauna during off-peak hours
• Turn off the heater a few minutes before finishing

Use a Sauna Cover

A well-fitting sauna cover will make sure that heat is stored safely for you when you’re not using your sauna. This keeps energy costs down by preventing the sauna’s heat from escaping.

When choosing a cover, make sure you get one that fits snugly and provides insulation. Be sure to cover your sauna during times of non-use for the most efficient operation and energy savings.

Calculate Your Sauna’s Energy Expenses

Accurately calculating your sauna’s energy expenses helps you budget better. Use a step-by-step process to estimate your home sauna’s energy costs. Then, you’ll input how much you think you’ll spend on it long-term.

Determine Your Sauna’s Wattage

First, find the wattage for your sauna, which should be available on the manufacturer’s label or in the user manual. Wattage makes a huge difference in energy usage.

Generally speaking, the higher the wattage, the higher the energy consumption. For instance, if you have a 6,000-watt sauna, it will obviously use more power than a 3,000-watt sauna.

If you are looking at various models, focus on the wattage ratings, as this will help ensure you are comparing apples to apples. Understanding your wattage needed can help you work out your budget and give you a better idea of what monthly costs may be.

Find Your Electricity Rate

Next, look up your local electricity rate, typically listed on your utility bill or available on your provider’s website.

NOTE: Electricity rates may depend on time of use. Peak hours typically have a higher rate. Savings may be found by comparing prices among different providers.

Check resources like the Energy Information Administration or local utility websites to find competitive rates and options that suit your lifestyle.

Calculate Hourly, Daily, and Monthly Costs

Use the following formulas to calculate your sauna’s energy costs:

• Hourly Cost: (Wattage / 1,000) x Electricity Rate
• Daily Cost: Hourly Cost x Hours Used Per Day
• Monthly Cost: Daily Cost x Days Used Per Month

The biggest variables when calculating costs are how often you plan to use your sauna and how long you’ll spend in it.

Consistently keeping an eye on these costs will keep you on budget. Have a plan to track usage and cost with a checklist to keep you on top to know your energy habits.

Maintenance for Sauna Efficiency

Regular maintenance ensures your home sauna operates safely and efficiently for years. Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Proper care reduces energy consumption while maximizing performance, helping you enjoy relaxation without wasteful power usage.

Even better, it saves you money in the long run.

Regular Inspections and Cleaning

This is why regular inspections are so important to keep your sauna running properly. Regularly inspect your components, such as the heater, benches, and walls, to catch any potential problems before they worsen and become costly repairs.

Making sure that all sauna components, such as the heater and benches, are clean will not only improve performance butalso improve safety.

Clean and InspectSchedule a routine cleaning and inspection every 3 months, or more frequently if you use the sauna daily. Good proactive maintenance will reduce your energy expenses by making sure each flaxing sauna component is working at its most efficient level.

Heater Maintenance

Sauna heater maintenance is key to efficient energy use. An efficient heater quickly and evenly warms the sauna, minimizing electricity use.

Cleaning the heater regularly, keeping an eye out for any corrosion, and regularly inspecting electrical connections ensure a safe sauna experience. This saves time and effort, but more importantly, it extends your heater’s effective lifespan, keeping it running efficiently.

Checklist items include things such as eliminating any dust or debris. Keep an ear out for any unusual sounds and make sure that your sauna’s thermostat is functioning properly!

Insulation Checks

Proper insulation is no doubt the top priority for keeping precious sauna heat from escaping. Inspect the insulation in walls and ceilings often to make sure it hasn’t settled or been disturbed.

Better insulation leads to huge energy savings. A well-insulated sauna will take less energy to heat it up from the start.

Notice signs of insulation woes, like drafts, nonuniform heating, or moisture accumulation. Resolving these issues quickly can have a tremendous impact on your energy expenditures.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Saunas

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Energy-efficient models prove they don’t have to. These saunas enhance your wellness routine while saving money and reducing environmental impact. Discover how upgraded features create comfort without excessive power consumption.

Reduced Electricity Bills

Energy-efficient saunas eliminate the hundreds of dollars your average sauna classically adds to your monthly electricity bills. By relying on smart heating technology, these models use less energy to achieve and hold the target temperature. Learning how much energy your sauna is currently consuming is the first step in identifying how you can save.

Compare that to a traditional sauna, which can draw as much as 6,000 watts. An energy-efficient model uses only 3,000 watts. That difference adds up to huge savings over time. Tracking your usage with a home energy monitor gives you ongoing, real-time data to understand and manage your electricity expenses. It helps you use energy more intentionally.

Environmental Benefits

Energy-efficient saunas are good for the planet. These saunas significantly lower your carbon footprint by consuming less energy. For instance, if every household switched to efficient models, the collective reduction in energy demand could lead to a notable decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy-efficient saunas incorporate and encourage the use of renewable energy sources, paving the way to a healthier planet. Opting for energy-efficient materials to build your sauna amplifies these benefits, encouraging sustainable production practices.

Increased Home Value

Upgrading your property with a new energy-efficient sauna will increase its value. Homebuyers have ever more been attracted to energy-efficient features, knowing the long-term savings and value they bring.

Do home saunas use a lot of electricity? Energy-efficient models prove to be smart investments, boosting your home’s resale value while saving on operating costs. As green home features become increasingly desirable, an efficient sauna offers both personal wellness benefits and market appeal.

It’s good for your health, too. It saves you a lot of money, and it helps keep you healthy.

Conclusion

Home saunas can be easily incorporated into your lifestyle without costing a fortune in electrical consumption. Knowing the difference between traditional and infrared saunas will allow you to make informed decisions. Each kind has its advantages, but either can provide cozy warmth without a big spike in your electric bill. To maximize the cost-effectiveness of your home sauna, monitor its energy consumption and adopt maintenance habits that will help reduce costs even more.

By investing in energy-efficient models, your wallet will benefit, as well as creating even more relaxation. If you’re looking to reap the rewards of a home sauna for yourself, begin your research on different types today. Providing you have the correct sauna setup, you can enjoy the restorative powers of heat comfortably without breaking the bank on energy expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions