How Much Does A Sauna Cost?
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How much does a sauna cost?
It can range anywhere from £1000-£17000.
Here’s how to get the right sauna for you in 10 steps.
1. Identify Your Sauna Type
The first step in estimating your sauna cost is deciding on the type of sauna you want.
The market offers a variety of options, including traditional steam saunas, infrared saunas, and portable saunas.
Traditional steam saunas, use a heater and rocks to produce steam, creating a high-temperature environment.
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to warm your body directly, which can be more energy-efficient and operate at lower temperatures.
Portable saunas offer flexibility and tend to be the most affordable, but they might not offer the same experience as permanent installations.
The choice you make affects not only the initial purchase price but also installation complexity, energy consumption, and maintenance costs.
Related article: The health benefits of using a sauna after your workout.
2. Determine the Size and Location
The size of the sauna and its intended location play crucial roles in determining the cost.
Saunas can be installed indoors or outdoors, each presenting different challenges and requirements.
An indoor sauna might require modifications to existing rooms, such as improved ventilation or waterproofing, which can add to the cost.
Outdoor saunas offer more flexibility in size and shape. You might incur additional expenses for building structures to protect them from the elements.
The size of the sauna not only affects the amount of materials needed but also the type of heater and the energy consumption.
Larger saunas require more powerful heaters and more energy to reach the desired temperatures, impacting both the installation and operational costs.
3. Consider Material and Construction Costs
The materials used in sauna construction significantly impact both the aesthetics and the cost.
Common materials include cedar, hemlock, and eucalyptus wood, each with its own price point and benefits.
Cedar, for example, is highly sought after for its durability, resistance to moisture and insects, and pleasant aroma…
It's also one of the more expensive options.
Hemlock and eucalyptus offer more affordable alternatives but might not provide the same level of quality or longevity.
It's important to also think about the construction costs.
Custom-built saunas tailored to your specific requirements and dimensions can significantly increase the price compared to pre-fabricated kits that you can assemble yourself.
4. Factor in Heater Options
Choosing the right heater for your sauna is pivotal as it not only affects the ambiance but also significantly impacts both upfront and operational costs.
Electric heaters are a popular choice for indoor saunas but can lead to higher electricity bills.
Wood-burning stoves offer a traditional experience and can be cost-effective if you have access to inexpensive wood, though they require more effort to maintain.
Infrared panels, on the other hand, provide a modern and efficient heating solution, with lower operating costs due to their ability to directly heat the body rather than the air.
Each heating option comes with its own set of expenses, from the initial purchase price to the cost of installation and ongoing energy consumption.
One of the most popular electric sauna heats on the market is the HUUM Hive Mini Electric Sauna Heater.
We’ve put the link below here:
- HUUM Hive Mini 6.0 kW Sauna Heater 240V/1PH
- UKU Black sauna control
- 330 lbs of 2" - 4" (5-10 cm) round olivine sauna stones
- 5-year limited warranty (excluding elements)
Related article: The safety of infrared saunas.
5. Calculate Installation and Labor Costs
The installation of your sauna can be as straightforward or complex as your design and location require.
Labor costs can vary widely based on the complexity of the installation…
The need for electrical or plumbing work, and the rates of local contractors.
A pre-fabricated sauna kit might only require a few hours to assemble, while a custom-built sauna could necessitate extensive construction work.
If your sauna installation requires electrical wiring for the heater or additional features like lighting, you'll need to hire a licensed electrician, which will add to the overall cost.
Outdoor saunas might require a concrete foundation or additional insulation, increasing labor and material expenses.
6. Account for Operating Expenses
Owning a sauna comes with ongoing operating expenses that you should consider.
The main cost driver is the energy required to heat your sauna, which will vary depending on the type of heater you've chosen and how frequently you use the sauna.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning and occasionally replacing parts like heaters or stones, also contributes to the cost.
To minimize these expenses, consider energy-efficient heaters, maintain a regular cleaning schedule to prolong the life of your sauna, and invest in a quality sauna that requires less frequent repairs.
7. Explore Additional Features and Accessories
Customizing your sauna with additional features and accessories can enhance your experience but will also add to the cost.
LED lighting, sound systems, and aromatherapy dispensers are popular upgrades that can make your sauna sessions more enjoyable.
These extras can increase the initial cost…
But they may offer value in terms of personal satisfaction and the overall sauna experience.
One sauna accessory we absolute love is this hat. So cool…
- Crafted from 100% organic wool felt to shield your head and ears from the elements while enjoying a sauna or banya
- The drawstring closure allows this baseball cap to fit most adult women heads comfortably
- Designed in a one-size-fits-style
- This wool felt cap is ideal for cold weather activities and provides warmth and protection from the cold when used in a sauna or banya
8. Understand Warranty and Insurance Implications
A warranty can offer peace of mind by covering repairs or replacements needed due to manufacturing defects or other covered issues.
Review the warranty terms to understand what is and isn't covered.
Adding a sauna to your property may affect your home insurance premiums.
Some insurers view saunas as an added risk, potentially leading to higher premiums.
Contact your insurance provider to discuss any changes to your policy and ensure you're adequately covered.
9. Research Financing and Payment Plans
If the upfront cost of a sauna is prohibitive, consider financing options or payment plans offered by the manufacturer or retailer.
These can make the purchase more manageable by spreading the cost over time.
However, it's crucial to read the fine print and understand the terms, including interest rates and repayment periods, to avoid unexpected expenses.
Financing can be a useful tool to afford your sauna, but ensure it fits within your longer-term financial plans.
10. Summarize the Total Cost Estimation Process
To accurately estimate the cost of adding a sauna to your home, start by determining the type and size of the sauna, considering both the initial purchase price and the cost of installation.
Factor in the choice of heater and any additional features or accessories you desire.
Don't forget to account for ongoing operating expenses, warranty considerations, and potential impacts on your home insurance.
If needed, explore financing options to spread the cost.
By taking a comprehensive approach to cost estimation, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and enhances your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Estimating the cost of a sauna involves considering initial purchase and installation costs, ongoing operating expenses, and the potential for additional features that enhance your experience.
By carefully evaluating each of these factors, you can make an informed decision that fits your budget and lifestyle, ensuring you enjoy the many benefits of sauna ownership without financial strain.
Remember, investing in a sauna is not just about the cost—it's about improving your health, relaxation, and quality of life.
Related article: How sauna usage can improve your skin health.
- Voted Best Infrared Saunas of 2023 by Sports Illustrated, Rolling Stone, and New York Post
- Features advanced full-spectrum heating system providing near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths
- Equipped with high-output heaters and supplemental Halogen heaters for faster heating
- Incorporates EMF/ELF blocking technology for safety; heater panels measure only 0.5 mG
- Utilizes Celliant textile technology in heater covers to convert body heat into infrared energy
- Saunas reach up to 165F, facilitating deep and detoxifying sweats
- Constructed with 100% solid wood, eco-friendly, non-toxic materials
- Innovative Magne-Seal system for easy assembly without screws or nails
- Includes medical-grade chromotherapy and premium Bluetooth surround sound speaker system
- Digital control panel with climate setting adjustment, 24-hour timer, and reservation mode
