How Much Does a Sauna Cost to Run?

Beyond the installation cost, how much does a sauna really cost to run? The operating costs of a sauna vary depending on its size, type, and frequency of use. And then there’s also the difference between an electric sauna and a firewood-heated sauna, which will favor you depending on your setup and resources. 

This guide explores the various factors that affect sauna costs, and provides actionable tips to save money while maximizing efficiency. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear picture of what it takes to maintain your sauna experience without straining your budget. 

Knowing the factors that influence running expenses can help you make the most of your investment for outdoor/ indoor saunas of your choice. 

Key Takeaways

• A sauna heater requires 1 kW of power for every 1.25–1.5 m³ of space, with larger saunas incurring higher costs.
• Proper insulation minimizes heat loss and reduces running costs.
• Use solar power for electric saunas and kiln-dried hardwood for firewood saunas to maximize efficiency.
• Opt for FSC-certified firewood and energy-efficient heaters to reduce environmental impact.
• Regular cleaning of heaters, chimneys, and proper firewood storage ensures efficiency and safety.

Factors Influencing Sauna Running Costs

The cost of running a sauna isn’t a one-size-fits-all calculation—it depends on several key factors that vary from one setup to another. From the size of the sauna and the type of heater you choose to how often and how long you use it, these variables play a significant role in determining operating expenses. 

Additionally, insulation quality, energy rates, and even the materials used in construction can greatly impact efficiency and costs. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions to optimize your sauna experience and manage expenses effectively.

1. Size of the Sauna

To determine the ideal sauna heater size, match it to the volume of your sauna space. As a general rule, a sauna heater requires 1 kW of power to heat 1.25 to 1.5 cubic meters of sauna volume. Using this principle, here are the typical heater requirements for our sauna sizes:

2-4 Person Sauna

Outdoor Sauna Thermo Treated Spruce UNION 125 (2 – 4 Person) EURO

Dimensions: 196 cm × 105 cm × 190 cm tall

Volume: 3.91 m³

Suggested Heater Requirement: 2.61–3.13 kW

Outdoor/Indoor Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna 2 – 4 Person

Dimensions: 150 cm Length × 200 cm Diameter × 150 cm Height

Volume: 4.71 m³

Heater Requirement: 3.14–3.77 kW

4-8 Person Sauna

Outdoor Nordic Spruce Sauna ECLIPSE M EURO

Internal Dimensions: 175 cm × 190 cm × 200 cm tall

Volume: 6.65 m³

Heater Requirement: 4.43–5.32 kW

Outdoor/Indoor Spruce Square Barrel Sauna 4-8 Person

Dimensions: 180 cm × 210 cm × 210 cm tall

Volume: 7.94 m³

Heater Requirement: 5.29–6.35 kW

4-8 Person Sauna

Outdoor Sauna Thermo Treated Spruce SERENITY ROUND CUBE SINGLE (3 – 10 Person) EURO

Internal Dimensions: 209 cm × 293 cm × 205 cm tall

Volume: 12.55 m³

Heater Requirement: 8.37–10.04 kW

Outdoor Spruce Log Sauna CUBE (4 – 10 Person) EURO

Internal Dimensions: 200 cm × 200 cm × 210 cm tall

Volume: 8.40 m³

Heater Requirement: 5.60–6.72 kW

2. Frequency and Duration of Use

The frequency and duration of sauna use significantly affect your monthly costs. Beginners often start with short, infrequent sessions, but avid users may require multiple, longer sessions weekly.

Longer or more frequent sessions result in higher energy or fuel consumption. For example, increasing a session from 15 minutes to 30 minutes doubles energy use, especially for electric heaters that remain on longer.

NOTE: When computing running cost, do not forget to add and consider the standby heating time of the sauna, not only the actual sauna sessions. 

3. Insulation and Materials

Various insulation materials | Shym Saunas

Good insulation significantly reduces heat loss, making your sauna more energy-efficient. Poor insulation can cause heaters to work harder, increasing running costs. Consider these materials:

• Fiberglass Insulation: A popular and cost-effective option for saunas, helping retain heat effectively.
• Reflective Barriers: Aluminum foil or similar materials can enhance heat retention by reflecting warmth back into the sauna.
• Wood Types for Sauna Construction: Durable and heat-retaining woods like cedar, hemlock, and spruce are ideal. They not only improve energy efficiency but also add a pleasant aroma to the sauna experience.

For detailed insulation tips, refer to Shym Saunas’ guide on sauna insulation.

4. Electrical Power Rates in Australia

Electricity costs in Australia vary by region. According to Momentum Energy, the average rate is between 22.88c and 35.38c per kWh. This rate impacts how much you’ll pay to run an electric sauna.

Urban areas often see higher firewood costs due to demand and transportation fees, while rural areas may offer cheaper and more accessible options.

Detailed Cost Analysis for Electrical Saunas

Electric saunas are convenient and easy to use, but their running costs depend on the heater’s power rating and your electricity rate.

To calculate energy consumption:

1. Determine the heater’s kW rating (e.g., 6 kW).
2. Multiply the kW by the hours of use per session.
3. Multiply the result by the number of sessions per month.

Example calculation for a 6kW heater

• Heating Period (1 Hour): 6 kW × 1 hour = 6 kWh.
• Session Usage (15 Minutes): 6 kW × 0.25 hours = 1.5 kWh.
• Total Energy per Session: 6 kWh + 1.5 kWh = 7.5 kWh.
• Monthly Cost: 7.5 kWh × 8 sessions × $0.30 = $18/month.

Energy-Efficiency Tips

• Install Solar Panels: Solar panels can generate renewable energy to power your sauna. In Australia, where sunlight is abundant, solar energy is a cost-effective solution that pays off in the long term. Excess energy generated during the day can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid.
• Use Off-Peak Energy: Schedule sauna sessions during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This not only saves money but also reduces strain on the power grid.
• Energy-Efficient Heaters: Invest in modern, energy-efficient sauna heaters. These heaters consume less electricity while providing the same level of heat, further reducing your overall energy consumption.

Cost Analysis for Firewood-Heated Saunas

Photo Credit: Pexels

Firewood-heated saunas provide a traditional and immersive experience, but they come with specific considerations regarding fuel consumption and maintenance. As a rough estimate, a typical wood-fired sauna uses approximately 7–9 kg of firewood for a 1–2 hour session. 

Firewood prices depend on the type of wood and location:

• Hardwoods (e.g., Ironbark, Redgum): $350–$500 per tonne.
• Softwoods (e.g., Pine, Spruce): $250–$350 per tonne.

Choosing the Best Firewood for Saunas

Not all firewood is created equal. While some types are ideal for creating the steady heat required in saunas, others are better suited for campfires and toasting marshmallows. The key to enjoying a great sauna experience lies in understanding what wood works best and why. 

Let’s explore the characteristics of effective firewood for saunas, proper storage practices, and why kiln-dried hardwood is the ultimate choice for a consistent and efficient sauna fire.

Softwoods vs. Hardwoods

Photo Credit: Arrows UK

Softwoods: Great for Kindling

Softwood species like pine, cedar, fir, and spruce are excellent for starting fires due to their low density and high resin content, which helps them ignite quickly. Here’s why softwoods work as ideal kindling:

• Fast Ignition: Softwoods light easily and burn hot for a short duration, making them the perfect way to ignite hardwood logs.
• Pleasant Aroma: Burning softwoods often releases a subtle, incense-like fragrance that enhances the sauna’s ambiance.

Caution: Avoid overusing softwoods, especially resin-heavy species like eucalyptus and aspen. Excessive resin can produce “gunk” in your sauna stove, leading to inefficiencies, excessive smoke, and wear on your equipment.

Hardwoods for Steady, High Heat 

Hardwoods, such as oak, birch, and maple, are the best choices for maintaining the steady, high heat needed for saunas. Their dense structure ensures a long-lasting and consistent burn, ideal for heating your sauna efficiently.

Benefits of Hardwood in Saunas:

• High Heat Output: Hardwoods burn hotter and for longer, providing steady warmth throughout your session.
• Less Smoke: Denser wood produces less smoke, reducing the likelihood of creosote buildup and creating a cleaner environment inside the sauna.
• Low Maintenance: Because of their slow burn, hardwoods require less frequent stoking, letting you relax and enjoy your sauna.

Why Kiln-Dried Hardwood is the Best Option

Photo Credit: Pexels

Kiln-dried hardwood is the premium choice for saunas, surpassing seasoned firewood in terms of efficiency and cleanliness. Here’s why:

1. Lower Moisture Content:
   Kiln-dried wood is dried in controlled conditions to reduce its moisture content to below 20%, making it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke compared to seasoned wood (moisture content around 40%).
2. Faster Ignition:
   The reduced moisture makes kiln-dried wood easier to light and keeps the fire steady without constant adjustments.
3. Cleaner Burning:
   Kiln-drying eliminates mold, mildew, and bugs from the wood, ensuring a healthier and more pleasant sauna experience.
4. Longer Burn Time:
   Hardwood that has been kiln-dried burns hotter and for longer, reducing the amount of firewood you need per session.

Top Hardwood Species for Sauna Use

If you’re looking for the best hardwood species to fuel your sauna, consider these top options:

• Oak: The densest and most common hardwood, offering exceptional heat output and longevity.
• Birch: Provides high heat and long burn times, making it a classic choice for saunas.
• Maple: Produces minimal smoke and creosote, ideal for those sensitive to firewood smells.
• Ash: Readily available and easy to light, a convenient option for sauna owners.
• Cherry: Adds a fruity aroma to your sauna session, combining heat with a touch of aromatherapy.
• Hickory: Known for clean, long-lasting flames that provide consistent heat.

Maintaining Your Sauna Firewood: Best Practices for Storage

Proper storage is critical to preserve the quality of your firewood and ensure it burns efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining your sauna firewood:

1. Keep Firewood Dry:
   Store logs in a dry location to prevent reabsorbing moisture. Wet firewood loses efficiency and produces excessive smoke.
2. Elevate the Stack:
   Avoid stacking firewood directly on the ground. Use pallets, concrete, or a firewood rack to keep the wood elevated and ensure proper airflow.
3. Allow for Ventilation:
   Stack the logs with enough space between them to promote airflow, which helps keep the wood dry and prevents mold.
4. Cover with a Loose Tarp:
   Protect your firewood from rain and snow with a loose tarp or store it under an awning. A tight tarp can trap moisture, compromising the quality of the wood.

Be Sustainable with Firewood

In addition to choosing high-quality hardwood, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of your firewood. Here’s how to make sustainable choices:

• FSC-Certified Suppliers: Purchase firewood from suppliers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure it comes from responsibly managed forests.
• Reclaimed Wood: Look for reclaimed hardwood from construction sites or woodworking projects as an eco-friendly alternative.
• Local Sourcing: Reduce transportation emissions by sourcing firewood from local suppliers.

Conclusion

Enjoy your sauna to the fullest by understanding how to run it efficiently. With the right approach, you can relax, improve your health, and elevate your space while keeping costs and environmental impact in check.

Ready to invest in a sauna or upgrade your setup? Explore our premium saunas, firewood, and electrical heaters at Shym Saunas. Designed for efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, our products help you create the ultimate sauna experience. Visit us today to find the perfect solution for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sauna Running Costs

1. How long does it take to heat a sauna?

The time required to heat a sauna depends on the size of the sauna and the type of heater:

• Electric Saunas: Typically take 30–45 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
• Firewood Saunas: Require about 40–60 minutes, as the fire needs time to establish before effectively heating the space.

2. Are there additional costs beyond electricity or firewood?

Yes, potential additional costs include:

1. Maintenance Costs: Cleaning heaters, chimneys (for firewood saunas), and repairing or replacing worn components.
2. Replacement Parts: Sauna stones, heater components, or fire grates.
3. Water Use: If your sauna uses water for steam, minimal water costs may apply.

3. Can I reduce running costs with off-peak electricity rates?

Yes, scheduling sauna sessions during off-peak hours can significantly lower electricity costs. Many Australian providers offer cheaper rates during late evenings or early mornings.

4. Is it more cost-effective to use a small sauna?

Smaller saunas are typically more cost-effective because they require less energy or firewood to heat. For example:

A 2-4 person sauna uses 2.5–4 kW of power, while an 8-10 person sauna may require 6–10 kW.

5. How often should I clean my sauna stove?

• Electric Stoves: Clean every 3–6 months or as needed to remove dust and debris.
• Firewood Stoves: Clean the chimney and stove after every 20–30 uses to prevent creosote (a sticky, black, tar-like substance that builds up inside the chimney or flue of a wood-burning stove or sauna) buildup and ensure proper ventilation.

6. What’s the lifespan of an electric sauna heater?

An electric sauna heater typically lasts 10–15 years, depending on usage frequency and maintenance. Regular servicing can extend its lifespan.

7. Can I use alternative woods like softwoods in a firewood sauna?

Softwoods like pine and cedar are great for kindling but not ideal for sustained heating due to their high resin content, which can cause creosote buildup. Stick to hardwoods like oak, birch, or ash for primary heating.