Beatrice Lang
Home saunas can be a great source of relaxation, but they can also be a significant drain on your electricity supply, which can be costly. However, there are ways to reduce energy consumption and save on those bills. The type of sauna, its size, and how often you use it will all impact how much energy it consumes. Traditional saunas, for example, use more energy as they heat the air in the room, whereas infrared saunas heat up faster and are more energy-efficient. Proper insulation is also key to preventing heat leaks and keeping energy costs down. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and checking parts, can also improve energy efficiency, as can something as simple as lowering the temperature a little.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of sauna | Infrared saunas use less electricity than traditional saunas |
| Temperature | Lowering the temperature can save energy |
| Size | Smaller saunas use less energy |
| Insulation | Proper insulation prevents heat leaks and reduces energy consumption |
| Heater power | A heater that is too powerful or too small for the sauna's volume can increase energy consumption |
| Maintenance | Regular maintenance and cleaning can improve energy efficiency |
| Usage | The more the sauna is used, the more electricity it consumes |
| Timing | Using the sauna as soon as it is warm and setting a timer to turn it off automatically can reduce energy consumption |
| Electricity cost | The cost of electricity varies by location and provider |
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What You'll Learn
Choose an infrared sauna over a traditional one
If you're looking to save electricity with your home sauna, choosing an infrared sauna over a traditional one is a smart choice. Here's why:
Infrared saunas heat up faster than traditional saunas, reaching the desired temperature in about 10 minutes, whereas traditional saunas can take up to 30 minutes. This quicker heat-up time means infrared saunas use less electricity. Traditional saunas need to heat the air in the room, which takes more time and energy. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared light to directly heat the body without significantly warming the surrounding air. This makes them more energy-efficient and cheaper to run.
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, typically between 110°F and 150°F (43°C to 65°C), while traditional saunas run hotter, from 150°F to 195°F (65°C to 90°C). The lower temperatures in infrared saunas make them more energy-efficient, as they require less power to maintain the desired temperature. Additionally, the lower temperatures in infrared saunas allow for longer sessions, so you won't need to keep reheating the sauna if you want a longer session.
Infrared saunas also have safety benefits. Traditional saunas can reach very high temperatures, putting a strain on electrical wiring and components. The steam-producing nature of traditional saunas also poses a potential hazard with the proximity of water to electrical components. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, have lower electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions and directly heat the body, reducing the risk associated with high temperatures and wiring.
In terms of cost, infrared saunas are generally more affordable to run. Traditional saunas often require more powerful heaters, which consume more electricity. The larger the sauna, the more power it will need to heat the air, resulting in higher electricity bills. Infrared saunas, due to their lower power usage, can save you money on electricity costs without sacrificing the benefits of sauna therapy.
When choosing between a traditional and an infrared sauna, consider your personal preferences, the size of the sauna, and your desired temperature. However, if saving electricity is a priority, an infrared sauna is the way to go.
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Opt for heated rocks in a wood-burning stove
If you're looking to save electricity with your home sauna, one great option is to opt for heated rocks in a wood-burning stove. This traditional method of heating saunas is not only effective but also reduces electricity consumption compared to using an electric heater.
Firstly, wood-burning stoves with heated rocks can reach much higher temperatures than electric heaters. This means you can achieve the desired temperature in your sauna without using any electricity at all. The traditional method can get the temperature as high as 195°F (90°C), while infrared saunas, which use electricity, typically stay between 110°F and 150°F (43°C and 65°C). With a wood-burning stove, you can enjoy the benefits of a sauna at higher temperatures without relying on electricity.
Secondly, wood-burning stoves are a more reliable option. Traditional saunas have fewer electrical elements that could fail, so they often last longer than infrared saunas if properly maintained. This makes them a more sustainable choice in the long run, as you won't need to replace parts as frequently.
Additionally, the heated rocks in a wood-burning stove serve as an excellent heat reservoir. The rocks can retain heat for an extended period, allowing you to enjoy your sauna experience for longer without continuously running an electric heater. This feature not only saves electricity but also enhances your overall sauna session.
When using a wood-burning stove, it's essential to ensure proper insulation in your sauna. Quality wood is typically sufficient to insulate an indoor sauna if it is well sealed. For outdoor saunas, consider using thermoplastic boards or fiberglass rolls for effective insulation. Proper insulation prevents heat from escaping, reducing the need for continuous heating and, thus, conserving electricity.
By choosing heated rocks in a wood-burning stove for your home sauna, you can create an authentic and relaxing experience while also reducing your electricity consumption and costs. This traditional method offers higher temperatures, improved reliability, and efficient heat retention, making it a sustainable and enjoyable option for sauna enthusiasts.
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Ensure proper insulation
Insulation is key to saving electricity in your home sauna. Proper insulation prevents heat from escaping the enclosed area, but only if it is intact. If insulation is substandard, there will be heat leaks, and your sauna heater will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. The harder the heater works, the more energy it consumes, increasing the cost of running your sauna.
Indoor saunas can be insulated with good quality wood, provided the sauna is well-sealed. For outdoor saunas, consider using thermoplastic boards or fibreglass rolls for insulation.
Traditional saunas, which heat the air in the room, generally require more electricity than infrared saunas. They can, however, reach much higher temperatures. If you opt for a traditional sauna, ensure it is well-insulated to prevent heat leaks. Regularly inspect and maintain the heater stones, re-stacking them at least once a year or more if you use the sauna frequently.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, heat up faster and are more energy-efficient. They reach the desired temperature in about 10 minutes, compared to 30 minutes for traditional saunas. This quick start-up is a significant advantage, as it results in less electricity usage.
To further optimise your energy usage, consider the size of your sauna. Larger saunas need more powerful heaters, which consume more electricity. A smaller sauna with an appropriately sized heater will be more energy-efficient.
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Lower the temperature
Lowering the temperature of your home sauna is an effective way to reduce electricity consumption and lower your bills. Even a small adjustment in temperature can make a noticeable difference in energy usage over time. Many people find that a slightly lower temperature still provides a rejuvenating experience without the need for excessive heat.
Traditional saunas run at higher temperatures, from 150°F to 195°F (65°C to 90°C). If you opt for an infrared sauna, you can save energy as they operate at a lower temperature, between 110°F and 150°F (43°C to 65°C). Infrared saunas heat up faster than traditional saunas, reaching the desired temperature in about 10 minutes, compared to 30 minutes for traditional saunas. This quicker heat-up time means less electricity is used.
The size of your sauna also matters. Larger saunas need more powerful heaters to maintain the temperature, which means they use more electricity than smaller saunas. A smaller sauna will not only save you money upfront, but it will also require less energy to heat.
You can also lower the temperature by improving the insulation of your sauna. Proper insulation prevents heat from escaping, so the sauna heater doesn't have to work as hard to maintain the temperature. For indoor saunas, quality wood is usually enough to ensure good insulation. If your sauna is outdoors, consider insulating it with thermoplastic boards or fibreglass rolls.
Remember, the more your sauna is used, the more electricity it will consume. So, if you can, try to cut down on wasted electricity by using your sauna as soon as it is warm. You can set a timer to let you know when the sauna is ready.
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Use a timer
Using a timer is a great way to save electricity with your home sauna. By setting a timer, you can ensure that your sauna is only running when you need it, preventing unnecessary energy usage and reducing your electricity bill.
Schedule your sauna sessions: With a timer, you can schedule your sauna to turn on before you plan to use it. This allows you to set a specific time for your sauna session, ensuring that the sauna is ready for you when you need it. It also means that you don't have to remember to turn it on manually, reducing the risk of forgetting and wasting energy.
Automatic shut-off: One of the most important features of using a timer is the ability to automatically shut off the sauna after a predetermined period. This is crucial to prevent the sauna from running for too long, which can lead to unnecessary power consumption and overheating. By setting a timer, you can ensure the sauna operates for an optimal duration, conserving energy and reducing wear and tear on the components.
Convenience and peace of mind: A timer enhances your sauna experience by providing convenience and peace of mind. You can effortlessly set the clock to match your desired sauna schedule, whether it's a daily routine or an occasional treat. With the automatic shut-off feature, you can relax without worrying about manually turning off the sauna, eliminating the risk of forgetting and leaving it on for too long.
Energy and cost savings: Using a timer directly translates to energy and cost savings. By preventing the sauna from running unnecessarily, you conserve energy and lower your electricity bill. Additionally, avoiding overheating reduces wear and tear on the sauna components, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Optimal duration for health benefits: Setting a timer allows you to control the duration of your sauna session, ensuring you stay within a healthy time limit. This can provide health benefits, as staying in the sauna for too long may be uncomfortable and potentially harmful. By setting a timer, you can create a balanced and healthy sauna experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Using your sauna as soon as it is warm can help to lower energy use by cutting down on wasted electricity. You can set a timer or reminder to notify you when it's ready. Infrared saunas are also more energy-efficient than traditional saunas as they heat up faster, reaching the desired temperature in about 10 minutes.
Larger saunas need more powerful heaters to maintain the temperature, which means they use more electricity than smaller ones. Opting for a 2-person model instead of a 4 or 6-person size can help you save on upfront costs and energy usage.
Lowering the temperature can help save energy and reduce your electricity bills. Many people find that a slightly lower temperature still provides a comfortable and rejuvenating experience.
To calculate the monthly energy costs, multiply the wattage of the sauna by the number of hours it is used per month and the cost per kilowatt-hour charged by your electricity provider.
