Curious about why some saunas that look very similar to each other have vastly different price tags? When shopping for a sauna, it can be confusing to discern what features or qualities a sauna has that will add financial value to the sauna. In this article you will learn the primary factors that determine the cost of a sauna:
- The Type of Sauna: Traditional Sauna vs Infrared Sauna
- Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna vs Far Infrared Sauna
- The Square Footage or Size of the Sauna
- Outdoor-Specific Saunas
- Special Features: Himalayan Salt Walls, Ergonomic Benches, etc.
- Electrical Devices or Computers Included in the Sauna
Once you understand what causes one sauna to cost significantly more than another (when appearances may be very similar), then you can decide for yourself what matters most to you in a sauna and choose the right sauna for your needs.
Cost Difference Between Traditional Sauna or Dry Sauna vs. Infrared Sauna
The first major difference that you will notice in the cost of a sauna is whether the sauna is a traditional sauna or an infrared sauna. Traditional saunas rely on a stove to create convection heat are almost guaranteed to have a higher price tag than a sauna using infrared technology. Furthermore, these saunas will require more electricity to maintain a high heat, and will also cost more to operate on a daily basis.
The traditional sauna has the ability to reach 190 degrees Fahrenheit, so if reaching a high atmospheric temperature is important to you, then the added cost will be an inevitable component of this choice.
There will be a clear drop in price for the same size sauna when comparing a traditional to an infrared sauna. This will be the first significant price difference that you will notice when shopping for a sauna. So, if you are looking for something more affordable to purchase and operate, you will likely want to start looking for an infrared sauna.
*Price Drop Incoming* – Full Spectrum Infrared Saunas vs. Far Infrared Saunas
The next significant drop in price you will notice is when comparing a full spectrum infrared sauna to a far infrared sauna. A full spectrum sauna includes both near and far infrared heaters, each of which require a different type of heating panel. Near infrared light requires ceramic heaters, while far infrared heat uses carbon heaters to best maximize the release of their respective light wave frequencies.
Some research suggests that near infrared light, particularly when combined with red light, has clinically significant applications in mitochondrial health. The term photobiomodulation refers to the effect that the combination of near infrared light and red light (in therapeutic doses) has on the body. For some individuals, including near infrared light into their sauna experience is worth the extra cost.
If you are someone who is simply looking to sweat profusely and benefit from heat therapy, then a far infrared sauna will get the job done for significantly less money.
The Larger the Sauna; the Higher the Cost
This one hasn’t likely caught you by surprise! Once you have determined what type of sauna you would like to purchase, you will begin to notice that a significant factor in sauna pricing is related to the size of the sauna cabin. As a sauna goes up in size to accommodate more people, or just more leg room, the price of the sauna will continue to increase accordingly.
Outdoor-Specific Saunas
Saunas that are designed to be used outside in very cold climates will tend to cost more than indoor saunas. Often, saunas rated for use outdoors will require more insulation and protection from humid and cold environmental factors, such as snow. This will add to the price of the sauna, although marginally. Most outdoor specific saunas are also traditional saunas, which already include higher cost heating elements when compared to infrared.
Costs Increase with Special Features: Himalayan Salt Walls, Ergonomic Benches, Removable Benches, etc.
As you explore the sauna market, you will also notice that the price of saunas goes up with specialized features. Many individuals appreciate the aesthetic, as well as the health benefits, of having Himalayan salt walls in their sauna. Other special features will include lay down ergonomic benches or, conversely, removable benches for activities such as yoga or aerobic exercise.
Depending on how important certain features are to you, It is up to you to decide if paying a little more is ultimately worth it.
*Price Jump Incoming* Computers, Tablets, and Electronics
If you are shopping for a sauna and notice a major price jump from $5,000 to $10,000, and simply cannot figure out why, there is a good chance you are paying for both a sauna as well as a tablet or device of some kind. Some sauna companies are including tablets in their sauna for individuals to be able to set a more elaborate ‘personalized program’.
If this is a ‘must-have’ feature that is important to you, you may not mind the major price uptick. But if you can leave the electronics out of your sauna experience (you can still use your own tablet or phone in the sauna and follow a program) and enjoy Bluetooth speakers alongside a standard control panel, you can save upwards of $5,000.
Decide What Type of Sauna Matters To You: Traditional, Full Spectrum Infrared, or Far Infrared
We believe it is important to figure out what type of sauna will suit your health needs, lifestyle, and preferences – and then begin to figure out the size sauna that you will want, as well as any extra features.
Certain health conditions will dictate a different type of sauna, so be sure to consult with a medical professional to decide what type of sauna will best suit your medical needs. It is always important to put your health first, and then figure out how much space you have available for your sauna in your home or business – especially with our wide variety of size options.
Finally, adding special features to your sauna will be the last decision, and if money is no issue, then you can dress your sauna up with all of the bells and whistles.
Regardless of your financial stature, at least now you will be better informed regarding what it is you are actually paying for when you purchase a sauna. Furthermore, in case you need it, you can always look into financing your sauna and pay for it over a period of time in installments. Be well!
