If you’re thinking about adding a sauna to your home or garden, one of the most common questions is simple: how much does a sauna cost, and what does it cost to keep it running? The good news is that for most people, sauna running costs are far lower than expected, especially when compared to other home comforts like hot tubs or underfloor heating.
For the average UK household, running a sauna usually costs just a few pounds per session. The exact amount depends on the type of sauna you have and how often you use it, but it is rarely an expensive luxury. When people consider sauna cost, they often focus on installation, but ongoing use is typically very affordable.
An electric sauna, which is the most popular option for homes, typically costs between £1.50 and £3 per hour to run. Most sauna sessions last between 30 and 60 minutes, meaning you are often spending less than the price of a coffee for a relaxing, health-boosting experience. Once the sauna reaches temperature, it does not need to work as hard to stay hot, which helps keep costs down.
Infrared saunas are even cheaper to run. Because they heat your body directly rather than warming the air, they use less electricity overall. Many owners find they cost well under £1 per session, making them a great option for regular use and helping keep home sauna cost low over time.
If you are drawn to the traditional sauna experience, a wood-burning sauna has no electricity costs at all. Instead, the running cost depends on firewood prices or whether you have access to your own supply. While these saunas require a little more effort to light and maintain, many people love the atmosphere and ritual they create.
There are also simple ways to keep running costs low. Good insulation, sensible session lengths and only heating the sauna when you are ready to use it all make a difference. Modern sauna designs are very efficient, meaning very little heat is wasted.
Overall, a sauna is surprisingly affordable to run. Whether you use it once a week or every day, the costs are modest, especially when you consider the long-term benefits for relaxation, recovery and wellbeing.