
How much does it cost to run a home sauna?
How much does a sauna cost to run? An electric indoor sauna costs $0.25 to $0.50 to run per 20-minute session. Running a wood sauna costs $4 to $8 for 15 to 20 firewood pieces for a 20-minute session. The cost to run a sauna depends on the sauna type, size, usage frequency, and local utility rates.
Is a home sauna worth it?
That alone may be worth the investment. Saunas take up a fair amount of space, and they're not a universally appealing home feature. A family with young kids, for example, might specifically not put in an offer on a house with a sauna.
How much are home saunas?
Saunas typically cost between $2,500 and $5,000, more if you need professional installation or additional wiring or plumbing. Electric or infrared sauna kits are relatively easy to install, but you may need to pour a concrete slab (for an outside sauna) or add an electrical line.
Does installing a sauna add value to my home?
The good news is that this investment does indeed add to the value of the home. Of course, the more elaborate the sauna, the more value it adds. But that is no reason to break the bank just for the sake of adding home value. The sauna that is installed should be adequate enough to support the needs of those who will be using it.

Are saunas expensive to run?
Do Electric Saunas Consume a lot of Energy? Most sauna users say they don't even notice a change in their electric bills after their sauna is built. The cost to operate a sauna can easily be calculated. For example, a three-or four-person sauna, used twice a week, will cost less than $5 per month to operate.
Is it expensive to have a sauna in your house?
Many homeowners would love a sauna, but many don't think the cost is justified. You can expect to pay an average of $4,500 to add a sauna to your abode. The total cost (including installation and any other extras) often falls between $3,000 and $6,000.
How much does a sauna increase your electric bill?
A traditional 2-person electric sauna costs $1.85 per month, while a larger, 5-person electric sauna adds $4.12 to your electricity bill per month. An industrial-sized sauna (15 kWh) will cost $12.60 per month to run.
Which is better a steam room or sauna?
The big difference is in the type of heat that they provide. A sauna uses dry heat, usually from hot rocks or a closed stove. Steam rooms are heated by a generator filled with boiling water. While a sauna may help relax and loosen your muscles, it won't have the same health benefits of a steam room.
Where should I put my sauna in my house?
Keep in mind that as long as you can wire your sauna heater, most areas of the home will do just fine for placement....OPTIONS FOR INDOOR SAUNA PLACEMENTStorage closet.Small bathroom.Basement.Garage.Attic.
Can you plug a sauna into a regular outlet?
If your sauna comes with an 8.0kw heater, it will require a 40-amp breaker and 8/2 wire. Traditional saunas usually come with LED lighting that plugs into a standard 110v outlet. All of the wiring will come into the sauna through a hole that your electrician in the sauna wall below the heater for the conduit.
What type of sauna is better?
Far-infrared: Far-infrared wavelengths penetrate the most deeply past the skin and into the body, making far infrared saunas the preferred choice for many who are looking for the most powerful healing benefits.
Does a sauna need a drain?
Commercial saunas have drains for hygiene and cleanliness purposes. However, home saunas do not require a drain as the amount of water that may be used for it to function is small and the cleaning process does not require a significant amount of water.
How much maintenance is a sauna?
Most sauna owners are surprised to find out that the cost to clean and maintain their saunas is only 1-4% of its initial cost per year! For example, if your indoor sauna costs $3,000, you can expect your yearly maintenance cost to be between $30 to $120 each year (1% to 4% of $3,000).
How long should you sit in a sauna?
The longer you stay in the sauna, the more you risk dehydration, so a general rule is to cap your time to 15 to 20 minutes. The Finnish, who the word “sauna” comes from, may have an even simpler suggestion since the sauna is meant for relaxing, not ticking off minutes: Leave the sauna once you feel hot enough.
Does a sauna need to be vented?
Sauna ventilation is not required for safety reasons, but it makes the sauna experience more comfortable. And improper or insufficient air flow can impede heater operation. Sauna venting is not like venting for a shower. You are not venting humidity (saunas are basically very dry) and you do not vent to the outdoors.
How often should you use a sauna?
Most specialists recommend one 20-minute sauna session one to three times a week for maximum benefits without any damage to your health. Also, you may adjust the number of sessions during one visit, depending on your health and physical fitness.
How long does a sauna take to heat up?
It only takes an infrared sauna 10 minutes to heat up while a traditional sauna can take longer, about 15-30 minutes.
Is the sauna good for weight loss?
Although you may weigh less after being in the sauna, it is just the loss of water that has occurred while you are in the sauna. The weight will co...
Does a sauna add value to your home?
A sauna adds value to your home, sometimes more than it is worth. Many people think a sauna is much more expensive than it actually is.
How much does it cost to put in a sauna?
A prefab, four-person kit that you install yourself averages $2,640 to $4,790. A custom-built sauna averages $3,000 to $6,000.
How do you heat a sauna?
Saunas use electricity, wood, or an infrared heater. Each of these works in a different way, but the concept is the same. The sauna rocks are heate...
Is a sauna good for you?
A sauna can be very good for your health as it rids your body of toxins, improves circulation, and rejuvenates the skin. Many people believe that a...
Is an infrared sauna good for you?
An infrared sauna uses infrared therapy to increase white blood cells, encourage muscle regeneration, reduce inflammation, and a host of other phys...
How do you build a sauna?
Many contractors use prebuilt saunas. While this may sound easier, that isn’t always the case. While a prefab sauna comes with all the parts, it is...
How much does it cost to build an outdoor sauna?
Building an outdoor sauna will cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000.
How much does it cost to install a sauna?
Installation. No matter which type of sauna you choose, it is a wise idea to call an expert to install it at your home. The installation will cost from $700 to 1500. In some cases, you should count on additional hardware, such as a dedicated circuit, which may require an extra $1500. 3.
How much does a far infrared sauna cost?
The far-infrared sauna will use 1450 to 4225 W, on a monthly level. Overall costs will be approximately $11 to 27, which makes it cheaper in the long run than the traditional sauna.
Why is the far infrared sauna so popular?
Nowadays, far-infrared sauna has become popular all around the globe. The reason is the new technology connected to infrared heaters, which makes this type of saunas long-lasting. Plus, they heat the body without heating the space. Therefore, there will be no steam or fog like in the traditional sauna.
How much does a steam sauna cost?
If you are skillful, you can get this sauna for $1800. That means you can buy Steam traditional kits for saunas and save money by installing the DIY, indoor type of sauna. The kit includes all parts for the sauna, including woodwork, hardware, door, flooring, and heater.
What is the most common sauna?
The most common and practical saunas for the households and beauty salons are the traditional and the infrared sauna. There are two types of traditional saunas: Traditional rock sauna. Traditional steam sauna. The infrared sauna can be: Far-infrared sauna. Near-infrared sauna.
How long is the warranty on a steam sauna?
5. Warranty. The warranty for the traditional steam/rock sauna depends on manufacturers and brands, but it is five to six years on average.
How much does it cost to replace a sauna heater?
You should also count on some extra costs for general repairs and replacements for your steam sauna in the next ten years. All in all, it can cost you about $1500 for the heater, stones, and other necessary parts you need to replace.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Bathroom Remodelers
Who would say no to a sauna in their home or on their property? We can’t think of anyone, which is why we’ve created a cost guide that details everything you need to know about building a sauna. Saunas boast tons of well-known health benefits and serve as a wonderful way to relax and unwind.
All About Saunas
A sauna is a small space, most often made exclusively of wood, that heats up to provide a variety of health benefits. For decades, experts have touted benefits of saunas like improved circulation, release of toxins from the body, increased muscle rejuvenation after working out and stress relief.
Cost to Build a Sauna
Many homeowners would love a sauna, but many don’t think the cost is justified. You can expect to pay an average of $4,500 to add a sauna to your abode. The total cost (including installation and any other extras) often falls between $3,000 and $6,000.
Custom Sauna
Say you want to design every aspect of your sauna. Sure, it’ll end up being amazing, but you’ll pay much more for this freedom. Your other option is to choose a prefabricated sauna, which means it’s already been made on an assembly line.
Prefab Sauna
Looking to save some money on a sauna? Your best option is to purchase a prefabricated unit. These saunas are typically sold as a kit, costing between $60 and $120 per square foot. Therefore, a standard sauna, which measures 8-by-5 (and fits about four people) should cost about $2,450.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The only major difference between an indoor and an outdoor sauna is location. But there are a variety of pros and cons of each that you should carefully consider before deciding the best location for your sauna. Choosing an outdoor location places far fewer restrictions on where you place your sauna; it can go just about anywhere.
How Much Does a Sauna Cost to Run?
The infrared sauna is the least expensive to run. The size of your sauna influences how much it costs to run a sauna. Other factors are how often you use the sauna, what type of heating system you have, and how well your sauna box is sealed. Another factor is the price of electricity in your area. For instance, a two-person infrared sauna costs about 19.2 cents per hour, while a four-person infrared sauna runs about 26.4 cents per hour. Most people who have an infrared sauna pay about $15 to $20 per month extra. Consumers who own an electric sauna can expect to spend an extra $25 to $30 per month. Wood burning saunas do not use electricity, but you have to pay for wood. A pile of wood is around $10, which would cost you around $20 to $40 a month. All in all, home sauna running costs are fairly comparable.
How much does a glass sauna door cost?
You can opt to have the glass tinted to let in less light while still having the view through the glass. Tinting ranges from a lighter gray to a dark bronze. A glass sauna door can be etched with a design to make it more unique. If you like wood and glass together, you can choose a half glass and half wood door. The cost of a glass sauna door ranges from $ 500 to $2,000.
How much does an infrared sauna cost?
The national average costs range between $3,000 and $6,000. Most consumers spend around $4,500 for a four-person steam sauna with a wood bench, door with a window, additional ventilation, and LED lighting.
How much does it cost to install a wood burning sauna?
The cost to install a wood-burning sauna is $3,000 to $4,000.
What is the best wood for a sauna?
Western red cedar is an excellent option for the inside, benches, and outside of your sauna. Its natural resistance to mold, mild, and moisture combined with the fact that it doesn’t overheat or secrete resin, make cedar the perfect sauna material. The tree grows in western North America, carries a pleasant aroma, and sports many shades of red. To use cedarwood for a sauna, you will pay about $3 to $7 per square foot.
Where are Rocky Mountain saunas made?
If you hadn’t guessed, Rocky Mountain Saunas is based in Colorado. Veteran and family-owned and operated, the company is relatively new. Offering infrared saunas, Rocky Mountain produces a 100% green product and offers factory direct pricing and an unlimited lifetime warranty on all residential saunas. The cost of a Rocky Mountain sauna is lower than most at $3,000 to $5,200 plus installation.
What materials are used in saunas?
A variety of materials are commonly used in various sauna constructions. The woods used to construct a sauna can normally withstand excessive heat and moisture without twisting, bending, bowing, or warping. Metal is normally not used in a sauna unless it is stainless steel because other types can corrode.
How much does a sauna cost?
If that’s the case, consider downsizing to a two-person sauna that’s priced at $3,000.
How much does it cost to install a sauna?
The average cost to install a sauna in your home is $4,500. Homeowners also have the option of getting prefab saunas an average of $90 per square foot. You may also have to spend $1,500 if you need new electrical and water connections installed. Factors like size, type, materials used, and the sauna’s location will affect the final price.
What is an infrared sauna?
Infrared Sauna – Infrared saunas focus on heating your body up. If you’re worried about moisture affecting the wood used for the sauna, infrared is a good option.
How much does a wood burning sauna cost?
Dry saunas are just a bit more expensive than wood-burning saunas. The dry options are priced at $4,000 and the wood-burning saunas cost $3,500.
How much does it cost to build a sauna floor?
Concrete – Concrete floors for your sauna are priced at $650. They can be worth that price as long as you take good care of them. Use an epoxy coating to make the concrete floor less slippery.
How big is a sauna?
The standard dimensions for home saunas are 6 x 6 x 4 feet and 8 x 6 x 12 feet. The former is a good choice if you want the sauna to hold two to four people. The latter is spacious enough for a big family because it can accommodate up to seven users.
How many people can fit in a sauna?
For $4,500, you can build one that measures 6 x 6 x 4 feet. Those saunas are good enough to accommodate at least two people, but they can seat up to four.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Home Sauna Yourself?
A small one to two-person in-home sauna costs around $1,000 to $1,500 and you can put that in your desired location relatively easily. Unless you’re a plumber and an electrician, you should hire a pro to take care of the plumbing and electricity hookups. You’ll need to ensure that the sauna drains properly and it doesn’t short out while you’re inside.
How much does it cost to run a sauna?
If you’re using an electric-powered sauna, it costs around $0.12 to $0.50 per hour. Every state has different kilowatt rates. The sauna guide will let you know how many kilowatts it uses per hour.
Where do most people put their home sauna?
Most people will opt to put their home sauna outside near a pool or on a screened-in porch so the heat doesn’t move into the rest of the house. If your house has enough room, you may choose to put it in a bathroom so you can shower right after.
How much does a wood burning sauna cost?
These saunas use burning wood in a heat-resistant container to fill the sauna with warmth. On average, wood-burning saunas will cost around $500 to $1,000 extra, depending on the size of the sauna.
How much does a wet sauna cost?
Wet saunas are an add-on, which will cause the price to rise from around $100 to $200.
What is a dry sauna?
Dry saunas are the standard heating method in most saunas. They use electricity or gas to heat the rocks and create the warmth you’re used to feeling in a sauna. This method is typically included in the price.
Does a home sauna increase the value of your home?
Some homeowners consider a home sauna to be a luxury item, which means you may notice an immediate return on investment for the value of your home. But when it comes time to sell, whether it increases your home’s value or not depends on the person buying—they may not want the added cost of maintaining and heating a sauna.
How much does a home sauna cost?
For example, you can buy a very basic sauna kit for as little as £900. For a larger, high-quality Scandinavian sauna kit, you could end up paying as much as £17,000.
How much does it cost to install a sauna?
The cost of home sauna installation by a professional tends to be around £2,160 to complete the job.
Can you build a sauna with a kit?
Instead of having a kit sauna installed, there’s also the option of building a custom sauna. As it’s a bespoke build, the cost can vary considerably depending on the size and specifications of the sauna. Plus, where it’ll be installed.
Where are saunas installed?
Many home saunas are installed outdoors, where there’s more space. For example, in a converted garage, shed or outbuilding.
Is a sauna a bathroom fixture?
For many people, a home sauna is the ultimate in luxurious bathroom fixtures. Install one and you can unwind and relax just like in a real spa, but in the comfort of your very own home. Home saunas can be more affordable than you might think, depending on the size and specification you go for.
Why is it safe to use a sauna indoors?
Here are a few reasons why placing a sauna indoors is perfectly fine: You will not have to worry about flooding or humidity issues due to proper insulation. As long as your sauna has wiring for 220 volts, you will not have to worry about electrical problems.
Which is better, a wood burning sauna or an infrared sauna?
In this scenario, an infrared sauna is best for you. Maybe you are more of a fan of the traditional feel of a sauna. You enjoy the smell of wood and therapeutic bursts of steam during your session. In this case, a wood-burning sauna would better suit your needs.
Why does a sauna take so long to warm up?
Because basements are usually not insulated, the warm-up time for your sauna may take a little longer.
Can you use a sauna without fire?
Luckily for you, indoor saunas function optimally without flooding, fire, or electrical issues. You can relax in pure bliss without worrying about the safety of your home. Maybe you have questions about what type of flooring you should use or where your sauna should actually go. Conveniently, most areas and types of flooring will do just fine ...
Can you take a sauna apart?
If you already built your sauna on a lower level, taking your sauna apart is simple and painless. As an added bonus, you will put it back together much quicker due to familiarity.
Can you use a sauna in a basement?
INDOOR SAUNA IN BASEMENT. The basement is an awesome area for sauna placement. Not only does it provide a getaway inside the home, but it also saves room space at the same time. Remember the following tips if you decide to use your basement: Make sure that there is no dampness in your basement.
Can you put a sauna on a carpet?
Almost Heaven states that placing your sauna on a carpet is not recommended . Here are a few reasons why: Using carpet will make it harder to keep your sauna floor neat and clean. Sweat and debris will quickly discolor carpeted areas over time. Using carpet may also cause safety issues with your sauna heater as well.
How much does it cost to install a sauna?
The average sauna installation costs between $3,000 and $6,000. On average, you’ll spend about $4,500. Size and material costs play the biggest roles in what you’ll pay. Labor costs usually account for between $700 and $3,000 of the total price. Prefab options cost between $70 and $120 per square foot.
How much does a sauna kit cost?
A DIY kit costs between $800 and $1,200. Contract a sauna professional to help or subcontract out the plumbing and electrical tasks.
How many people can fit in a sauna?
Typical sauna sizes range between 4 by 4 feet to 8 by 12 feet. The average 8 by 5 feet unit can seat 4 people. Larger versions that can seat 5 to 7 people will run closer to $6,000. Relaxing in one benefits your health by removing toxins and bolstering the immune system. Most people don’t realize that you can install one in the home.
How much does an infrared sauna cost?
Infrared saunas cost between $1,500 to $6,900. Most of these units come as prefab kits. Infrared options don’t generate as much moisture, so you don’t need a strong and costly wood such as cedar.
How does sauna return on investment work?
Sauna return on investment heavily depends on how much the next buyer values the improvement. Some buyers perceive luxury and value, as long it’s high quality, resulting in a high ROI. Others may consider it an unnecessary expense and maintenance task.
How much does it cost to install a custom outdoor unit?
The average custom installation costs about $7,100. For an outdoor unit, there will be a range of wood to choose from such as cedar or redwood. Fiberglass or acrylic versions are very durable, but somewhat more expensive to repair than wood.
How much does an indoor air conditioner cost?
An indoor unit begins at $3,000 but can get up to $9,000+. In-home options cost more than outdoor units because you must vent it and protect the nearby area from heat and moisture. You can install it anywhere that space allows, like a walk-in closet or basement.
