How Much Does a Sauna Cost to Run in the UK?

The cost of running a home sauna in the UK depends on several factors, including the type of sauna, the energy source used, insulation quality, how often it is used, and your electricity tariff. Understanding these factors can help you estimate ongoing costs and choose a more efficient option.

Main Factors That Affect Running Costs

Type of sauna:

  • Electric saunas are the most common in UK homes and are easy to operate, but they use more electricity at higher temperatures.

  • Wood-fired saunas use firewood instead of electricity but require more maintenance and suitable outdoor space.

  • Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures and typically use less electricity.

Energy source:
Electricity prices vary by supplier and tariff in the UK. Gas and wood costs also depend on location and availability. Homes with solar panels may be able to reduce long-term running costs.

Insulation and ventilation:
Good insulation reduces heat loss and lowers energy consumption. Proper ventilation improves heating efficiency and safety.

Typical Energy Use by Sauna Type

  • Electric sauna: around 6–9 kWh per session

  • Infrared sauna: around 1.5–2 kWh per session

  • Wood-fired sauna: cost depends on the price of firewood

For comparison:

  • Tumble dryer: 2–3 kWh per load

  • Dishwasher: about 1.5 kWh per load

  • Central heating boiler (electric): around 2–5 kWh per hour

Using a sauna three times per week for 30–45 minutes may consume around 20–30 kWh per month, depending on the model and usage.

Climate and Location

  • Colder parts of the UK: Outdoor saunas take longer to heat and use more energy.

  • Milder areas: Less energy is required to reach temperature.

  • Indoor saunas: Usually more energy-efficient than outdoor models.

High-quality insulation helps reduce the impact of outside temperatures.

Upfront vs Ongoing Costs

Upfront costs may include:

  • Sauna unit

  • Installation

  • Electrical or ventilation work

  • Insulation and materials

Ongoing costs include:

  • Electricity or firewood

  • Maintenance

  • Replacement parts

More energy-efficient saunas can cost more initially but may reduce long-term running costs.

Example Monthly Running Costs (UK)

These examples are based on typical household use and average UK electricity prices:

  • Electric sauna: £16–£24 per month

  • Wood-fired sauna: £32–£40 per month (depending on firewood cost)

  • Infrared sauna: £2–£4 per month

Actual costs depend on your energy tariff and how often the sauna is used.

Session Length and Frequency

  • 30–45 minutes: most cost-effective

  • Longer sessions: higher electricity use

  • Daily use: noticeable increase in monthly bills

Most sauna benefits can be achieved with moderate session lengths.

Ways to Reduce Running Costs

  • Avoid unnecessary pre-heating

  • Use moderate temperatures

  • Turn off the sauna when not in use

  • Keep insulation and door seals in good condition

  • Clean and maintain the heater regularly

  • Use off-peak electricity tariffs where available

  • Consider renewable energy sources

Summary

In the UK, sauna running costs depend mainly on sauna type, electricity prices, insulation, and usage habits. Infrared saunas are generally the cheapest to run, while wood-fired saunas vary depending on firewood costs. With efficient use and good insulation, running a sauna is comparable to other household appliances.