What’s it Like Owning a Sauna?

lady entering a traditional Finnish sauna

What’s it like to own a sauna?  Your very own home sauna? Well, in my experience it’s incredible.  To have round-the-clock access to your own sauna, in your own home, is one of life’s little luxuries.  But what are the down sides?  Are there things you need to consider before splashing the cash on a home sauna?  Let’s take a look.


Owning a Sauna: What You Need to Know

Are you considering investing in a home sauna?  Want to know what’s it like owning a sauna before you part with your cash?  Well, let me help you.  My name’s Amy and I’m an avid sauna user.  I’ve been using my very own home sauna for over 12 years now.   And, I’ll let you know everything you need to know about what it’s like to own a sauna.


The Ultimate Convenience

The best thing about owning a sauna is the convenience.  Having a sauna in your home is the ultimate luxury.  At times, it feels like living in a hotel with a spa at your disposal whenever you need it.  It’s a real quality-of-life upgrade.  Having a sauna at your disposal whenever you choose to use it, just feels incredible.

man and woman relaxing

Better still, you don’t even have to leave your home.  And, you don’t have to share it with anyone.  I think the best thing about owning a sauna is the sheer convenience of having easy access.  That, and never having to leave your home to unwind and chill out in a sauna.  The lap of luxury.


Your Own Personal Oasis

If you own a sauna, you’ll discover your own little personal oasis. Somewhere you can go and relax. Just shut the door and leave the rest of the world behind you. It’s a unique feeling. And, you just can’t recreate it in a public sauna. In a public sauna, you have to share the space with whoever happens to be there beside you.


Sharing With Friends & Family

three women friends enjoying a traditional finnish sauna

Even better, you can share the experience with friends and family.  Why not light up their lives and introduce the joy of personal sauna to your closet and dearest?  There’s nothing better than sharing the luxury and watching your friends and family relax in the comfort of your home.  You’ll be a very popular sauna owner.


Cost

The biggest drawback of owning a sauna is the cost.  And, the most significant cost is the initial purchase price.  On average, they cost between $1,000 to $2,000 for a standard sauna.  Then you’ll have to consider installation and running costs.

Running costs are surprisingly low, especially for infrared saunas.  I worked out that my infrared sauna costs about $1 per week in electricity costs.  I use it 2-3 times per week.  A traditional sauna will cost at least twice this and works out to about $2 per week.  Either way, they are easy to run.


Installation

Installation is often overlooked when it comes to owning a home sauna.  And, it’s something you need to consider if you are planning on purchasing a home sauna.  Saunas need an electrical connection and proper ventilation to ensure safe operation in your home.

man performing home installation with a drill

You may need to hire a professional electrician to get the job done safely.  If you are investing in an outdoor sauna, you need to consider adequate weatherproofing and drainage.


Space

If you plan on owning a sauna, you’ll have to consider space.  How much space do you have in your home?  Even the smallest saunas have a significant footprint.  A standard two-person sauna measures 5 feet by 4 feet.  And, they’ll be at least 6 feet high.  Probably a little more.  So, take a moment to consider where you will place the unit and evaluate the amount of free space you have.


What Type of Sauna Did I Get?

I got a 2-person infrared sauna.  They’re a great option for home use.  Firstly, the size is great.  I usually use it solo.  And, 2-person means you have a little extra space and comfort when using it on your own. Then, if you want to share it with a friend or family member, no problem.  There’s enough room for two.

I chose infrared sauna for 3 reasons.  Firstly, heat-up time.  Infrared saunas heat up much more quickly compared to traditional saunas.  Secondly, running costs.  They’re cheaper to run and consume less energy. And finally, health benefits.  Infrared saunas have all the same potential health and relaxation benefits compared to a traditional sauna.  That made it an easy choice for me.

How about you?  Do you own a home sauna?  What has your experience been?  Let us know your thoughts.  What’s it like owning a sauna?  We’d love to hear if you share the same thoughts as we do.  Maybe you have a different view and can share your tips.


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About the Author

AMY SHAFER

• Allied Health Specialist

Meet Amy, a dedicated advocate of sport, fitness, and the application of infrared sauna therapy. Originally from Texas, she moved to the Sunshine State at an early age. Growing up in the Tampa Bay area, she enrolled in the University of Tampa where she graduated with a BS Degree in Allied Health and a MS in Athletic Training.

Amy’s expertise lies in infrared sauna therapy, with a special focus on the synergistic effects of infrared sauna in combination with traditional therapies. She has a passion for exploring and developing innovative approaches to wellness enhancement and injury recovery.

Amy began her journey as a swimming coach at the YMCA Aquatic Center in Central Florida. Here she developed a passion for applying her sporting knowledge to help individuals achieve their goals. Transitioning to a role more closely aligned with her allied health and athletic training degrees, she delved into the field of infrared sauna therapy. She has been instrumental in pioneering the use of infrared sauna in rehabilitation and injury recovery.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Amy is actively involved in a community-based soup kitchen where she helps support her local homeless community. In her free time, she enjoys cycling and exploring her local national parks, including Biscayne Park, Big Cypress, and the Everglades.


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