How much does an infrared sauna cost to run in the UK?
Counting the Costs: Running an Infrared Sauna in the United Kingdom
Infrared saunas have become increasingly popular in the United Kingdom for their potential health benefits and relaxation properties. While investing in an infrared sauna can be an enticing prospect, it should be even more so once you realise just how cheap they are to run. This article aims to shed light on the factors that contribute to the cost of operating an infrared sauna and provides a rough estimate of what you can expect.
1. Electricity Consumption
The primary cost associated with running an infrared sauna is electricity consumption. Infrared saunas use heating elements that emit radiant heat to warm your body directly. These heaters typically run on electricity, and the amount of energy they consume depends on several factors:
- Sauna Size: Larger saunas require more energy to heat the space effectively.
- Heater Type: The type and power of the infrared heaters influence energy consumption.
- Usage Time: The duration and frequency of sauna sessions significantly impact electricity costs.
2. Sauna Size and Power
The size of your infrared sauna and the power of its heating elements play a crucial role in determining energy consumption and, consequently, running costs. Smaller saunas with lower wattage heaters will consume less electricity than larger saunas with high-powered heaters.
3. Usage Frequency
How often you use the infrared sauna also affects operating costs. If you use it daily or multiple times a week, your electricity bill will reflect this increased usage. Conversely, occasional use will result in lower costs.
4. Energy Rates in the UK
Electricity rates in the UK vary depending on your location, energy provider, and the type of tariff you’re on. As of the time of writing this article, according to energyguide.org.uk the average electricity cost in the UK was around 34p per kWh. Keep in mind that energy prices may have changed since then, so it’s a good idea to check with your energy provider for the most up-to-date rates.
Calculating the Cost
To estimate the running cost of your infrared sauna, you’ll need to consider the following:
- Wattage of Heaters: Check your sauna’s specifications for the wattage of its heating elements.
- Usage Time: Determine how long you typically use the sauna during each session.
- Frequency: Calculate how often you use the sauna in a month.
- Electricity Rate: Find out your current electricity rate per kWh from your energy provider’s latest bill.
Once you have this information, you can use the following formula to estimate the monthly cost of running your infrared sauna:
Monthly Cost = (Wattage / 1000) x Usage Time (hours) x Frequency (sessions per month) x Electricity Rate (per kWh)
For example, if you have a 2,000-watt sauna, use it for one hour each session, three times a week (12 times per month), and your electricity rate is 34p per kWh:
Monthly Cost = (2,000 / 1000) x 1 x 12 x 0.34 = £8.16
Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate, and actual costs can vary. Sauna usage patterns and energy-efficient sauna models can all impact your monthly expenses.
To see the cost of running a Sun Stream sauna, please click here.
Conclusion
Running an infrared sauna in the United Kingdom incurs electricity costs that depend on factors such as the sauna’s size, heater power, usage frequency, and electricity rates in your area. To determine the precise cost, you’ll need to gather specific information and perform the calculations using the formula provided (click here to see the running costs of all Sun Stream Sauna models). While there are some small costs involved in operating an infrared sauna, many users find the health and relaxation benefits well worth the relatively minor expense, and the experience can be a valuable addition to a wellness routine.