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Whether a once-a-month treat or a weekly habit, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a sauna and sweating all your stress away. And with at-home spa features becoming more and more popular in recent years, you no longer have to go to the local gym to get the sauna experience.
Indeed, while the price of at-home saunas in the past was relatively expensive, nowadays, installing your own indoor or outdoor sauna at home is more affordable than ever!
However, alongside the initial installation price of such a feature, you’ll also need to consider the associated cost of running a sauna, and whether or not this is something you can afford in your monthly energy budget.
So, to help you decide whether or not an at-home sauna is something you want to invest in, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about sauna running costs, including how to calculate them and how to reduce them.
Given that other at-home spa features, such as hot tubs, can be somewhat expensive to run daily, you might expect the running cost of saunas to fall into a similar category. But it turns out that the opposite is true.
Due to the nature of how saunas operate, and the recommended duration you should use a sauna for before it becomes unhealthy, the average cost of running a sauna likely won’t significantly impact your monthly energy bill.
Generally speaking, how much it costs to run a sauna will depend on several factors, such as sauna size and what sort of heating system you use. However, given that most modern saunas operate using an electric heating system, we can provide a rough calculation of what your sauna might cost to operate if you were to use it every day.
For example, if we assume that the average kWh price in the UK is around £0.22 (as of July 2024), and you were to run your sauna for one hour every day using a 6kW heater, this would equate to a cost of £1.32 per day, or about £40 per month.
Of course, this is just an estimation, and most at-home sauna users tend not to use their sauna every day or for a full hour. And if your sauna uses a different heating system, such as infrared or a wood-burning stove, then your sauna running costs could be even lower.
Unlike a traditional or electric sauna, infrared saunas have a faster warm-up time, meaning they’re ready to use that much sooner. On top of this, because they’re using infrared lamps rather than heating stones on a hot plate, they tend to use less energy overall.
Most infrared saunas operate at a lower wattage overall, typically around 1.5kW. So, if you were to operate an infrared sauna for an hour, this would equate to a running cost of as low as £0.33 or just £10 a month!
In order to calculate how much your desired sauna might cost to run, you first need to know the wattage of your heating system. This is not really possible with wood-burning saunas, but for electric and infrared systems, you should be able to find out what your heater’s wattage will be before installation.
From here, you then need to estimate how long you’ll be using your sauna for each day. Most sauna sessions tend to be no longer than 20 minutes, however, you will need to account for sauna warm-up time, meaning you’ll probably have your sauna active for at least 40 minutes to an hour per use.
Once you have both these units in hand, you simply need to multiply the average price of a kWh from your energy provider by your sauna’s wattage (for example, £0.22 x 6kWh for our electric sauna), and this will give you the cost for one hour of sauna use.
Here at Hekla, our electric saunas specifically operate using 6.8kW and 9kW heaters. So, if we assume that your energy tariff price matches that of our previous example (£0.22), then a Helka sauna will cost you between £1.45 and 1.98 per hour.
As you can see, the cost of running a sauna in your home is very affordable, especially if you opt for an infrared sauna. However, how much it may cost to run your sauna can be dependent on far more than your heater’s wattage.
Below are some of the main factors at hand that can impact how efficiently your sauna will be to run:
On top of all these, it’s also important to remember that you’ll need to pay for regular sauna maintenance sessions and cleaning products in order to keep your sauna functional, all of which can add to your overall bills at the end of the year.
An essential part of sauna maintenance, the average sauna service in the UK will cost you between £50-£200, depending on how in-depth a service your sauna requires and how big your sauna is.
However, as this is only a once-a-year check, it should not impact your sauna running costs too much.
So, now that you know more about sauna running costs and what can impact them, is there anything you can do to help save money on your bills and make your sauna more cost-efficient?
Below are our top tips for reducing the cost of running your sauna:
Hopefully, you should now have a much better idea of how much it costs to run a sauna at home, and what might impact such costs. We encourage you to do your own estimation of running costs before you pick your sauna and bear them in mind alongside initial installation costs.
Of course, if you’ve already settled on getting a sauna for your home, and you’re looking for one designed with quality in mind, then why not take a look at the saunas we have on offer at Hekla?
From traditional barrel saunas and cube saunas to infrared models, we’ve a range of options to suit all tastes. Get in touch today to find out more about our sauna designs and technology, and don’t forget to visit our sauna blog for more articles like this one.
When it comes to centuries-old fitness practices, there are few well-being rituals more tried and tested than the humble sauna. Adored for their therapeutic and relaxation benefits, saunas are used around the world and are as much loved now as they were hundreds of years ago.
Naturally, the continual use of saunas throughout the years means their benefits are well-known, and it’s made them a staple of many people’s workout routines. However, if you’re only just starting to test the waters with saunas, you might still have a few questions about sauna time and use – especially around how long to spend in a sauna for your first time.
If any of these questions sound familiar, don’t worry, as we’ve pulled this guide together to answer all your questions around sauna timings, how long to spend in a sauna to avoid potential health risks, as well as providing advice on whether it’s safe to use saunas on a daily basis as part of your fitness plan.
Generally speaking, it’s recommended that you spend no more than 30 minutes at a time in a sauna, and you’ll likely want to stay for a shorter duration of 15-20 minutes on your first few visits as you acclimatise to the temperature experience.
This is because extended exposure to high temperatures for too long can cause dehydration or heat exhaustion, which can be serious if left untreated, and it’s the main reason why experts recommend hydrating before using a sauna and taking breaks between sessions if needed.
When it comes to how long to stay in a sauna, particularly for your first time, there are a variety of factors at play that can impact the duration of your sauna session, including all of the following:
According to experts, the number of sauna sessions required each week for you to start seeing the health benefits of this wellness practice is between 2-3 sessions. However, this will vary depending on how often you’re using a sauna each day.
For example, if you’re using a sauna once a week, then you should be looking to fit in 3 sessions on that to benefit from its full effects. On the other hand, if you’re going three times a week to a sauna, then one session per day will be enough when using a sauna after your workout routine.
Despite the health risks associated with overexposure to saunas, it is possible to use a sauna every day and experience the health benefits they provide, though the amount of time you spend in the sauna should be reduced and kept to one session per day to avoid any health complications.
With all this talk of when and for how long to use a sauna, you may be wondering exactly what these sauna benefits are. Numerous and far-reaching, these health benefits include the likes of:
Though there are many known benefits associated with regular use of a sauna, there are some potential risks that should be taken into consideration as well. For example, people who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions should consult their doctor before using a sauna as it could potentially worsen existing conditions or lead to complications.
On top of it is best to avoid using the sauna after consuming alcohol or drugs as these can increase your risk for dehydration or heat exhaustion.
So, now you know exactly how much time you should be spending in a sauna, and whether or not it is safe to sauna every day, all of which you can use to perfect your fitness routine and continue your journey towards better health.
Of course, in order to gain all the benefits associated with regular sauna use, you’ll need to find one you can easily access. And while you can opt for a sauna at your local gym or spa, having one at home means you can use your sauna when it suits you.
From classic barrel saunas and cube saunas to modern infrared sauna options, our collection of sauna models has been specially curated to give you the flexibility to find the perfect sauna for your garden.
Get in touch today to find out more about our product line and don’t forget to visit our sauna advice blog for more advice and tips around regular sauna use.
For fitness enthusiasts, the pursuit of peak performance and overall well-being isn’t just confined to the gym or the yoga mat. It extends to holistic practices that can amplify the results of a workout routine. One practice is the strategic use of saunas, a ritual that has been a cornerstone of wellness in various cultures for centuries. In this extensive guide, we’ll explore the profound effects of saunas when utilised both before and after a workout, equipping you with the knowledge to supercharge your fitness strategies.
Before we break down the benefits, it’s important to understand the basics of a sauna session. The experience typically involves sitting in a room heated to temperatures upwards of 76 degrees. The intense dry heat causes the body to sweat, which can lead to a range of health benefits, including improved circulation, stress relief, and detoxification. While there are several types of saunas, the underlying principle of heat therapy remains constant.
If you’ve ever seen an athlete head to the sauna before a competition, it wasn’t just for show. Pre-workout sauna sessions can offer several advantages to health and fitness.
Improved Circulation and Warm-up
Saunas pre-workout help dilate blood vessels, which reduces blood pressure and increases blood flow. This effect mimics the body’s response to physical exercise, known as the ‘vasodilation response.’ Improved circulation can lead to a better warm-up and enhanced delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles.
Muscle Relaxation and Flexibility
Heat from the sauna can cause muscles to relax, which can be especially beneficial before engaging in intense exercise. Relaxed muscles are more flexible and less prone to injury, making them easier to stretch and prepare for the stress of a workout.
Mental Preparation and Focus
Sauna time can be an opportunity to mentally focus on the upcoming workout. The serene environment compels individuals to relax and concentrate, which can be a valuable psychological warm-up for athletes and gym-goers alike.
The post-workout sauna session is equally significant, as it aids in the body’s recovery process and offers a range of restorative effects.
Muscle Recovery and Relaxation
After a workout, saunas can help the body flush out metabolic waste products and assist in faster muscle recovery. The warmth of the sauna promotes circulation, bringing fresh blood to oxygen-depleted muscles, which can reduce soreness and aid in repair.
Detoxification and Stress Relief
The act of sweating in a sauna can help eliminate toxins and heavy metals from the body. This detoxification process is complemented by the stress-relieving environment of the sauna, which encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
Enhanced Sleep Quality and Overall Well-being
A post-workout sauna gives the body a head start on cooling down, a process that is crucial for falling asleep. Quality sleep is when the body does most of its recovery and repair, and a sauna session before bedtime can enhance this process, leading to better overall fitness outcomes.
To ensure you’re reaping the full benefits and not risking any adverse effects, here are some key considerations when using saunas before and after workouts.
Duration and Temperature Recommendations
Begin with shorter sessions at lower temperatures, gradually increasing the time and heat as your body acclimates. A good starting point is around 10-15 minutes at 65 degrees. Always listen to your body and exit the sauna if you feel dizzy or unwell.
Hydration and Post-Sauna Practices
Hydrate before, during, and after your sauna sessions. Replenishing fluids is critical, especially after sweating heavily. Consider taking a cold shower post-sauna to aid in the cooling down process and to close pores.
Integrating saunas into your fitness regime can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to enhance your performance, recover more quickly, the sauna offers a multiplicity of benefits. It’s a tool that, when used mindfully, can help you achieve new levels of fitness and well-being. Remember, everybody is different, so your sauna routine should be tailored to your individual needs and goals. With this comprehensive insight into sauna use in the fitness context, it’s time to step up your wellness game and unlock the potential within.
FAQ’s
Q: How can a sauna benefit you after a workout?
A: After a workout, saunas can help the body flush out metabolic waste products and assist in faster muscle recovery
Q: Can a post workout sauna improve your quality of sleep?
A: A sauna session before bedtime can enhance this process, leading to better overall fitness outcomes.
When talking about mental health, there are many ways to care for our mental well-being. From therapy to exercise, medication to mindfulness, the options are endless. But have you ever thought of spending time in a sauna as a way to improve your mental health? It sounds like an unusual suggestion, but research has shown that there are many ways in which using a sauna can be beneficial to our mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different ways in which a sauna can help boost our mental health.
One of the most common and well-known benefits of using a sauna is the relaxation it provides. When we spend time in a sauna, our body temperature rises, which results in improved blood circulation and the release of endorphins. These endorphins are known as the “feel-good” hormones, and they help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, making us feel calmer and more relaxed.
Another benefit of using a sauna is the positive effect it has on our sleep quality. When we spend time in a sauna, our body temperature rises and then falls rapidly, mimicking the natural rhythm of our sleep cycle. This process helps to regulate our body’s sleep hormones, making it easier for us to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Using a sauna can also help to improve cognitive function. The increased blood flow to the brain stimulated by sauna use can help to improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance. Additionally, the release of endorphins can also help to boost mood and motivation, making it easier to focus and function throughout the day.
Studies have shown that using a sauna can be helpful in reducing symptoms of depression. The heat and relaxation provided by a sauna can help to boost the mood and improve overall mental health. Additionally, the release of endorphins can help to improve feelings of happiness and well-being.
Finally, using a sauna can be a beneficial way to promote social connection. Many saunas are communal, and spending time in this setting can be a great way to connect with others. Additionally, the relaxed state that comes with sauna use can help to open up communication channels, making it easier to connect emotionally with others.
In conclusion, taking care of our mental health is essential for our overall well-being. While there are many ways to do this, spending time in a sauna is a unique and helpful addition to our self-care routine. Whether you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or simply looking for a way to relax and connect with others, there are many benefits to be had from using a sauna. So why not give it a try and see how it can benefit your own mental health?
Q: Can a Sauna Help With My Sleep?
A: Yes, when we spend time in a sauna, our body temperature rises and then falls rapidly, mimicking the natural rhythm of our sleep cycle. This process helps to regulate our body’s sleep hormones, making it easier for us to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Q: How Does a Sauna Help With Depression?
A: The heat and relaxation provided by a sauna can help to boost the mood and improve overall mental health. Additionally, the release of endorphins can help to improve feelings of happiness and well-being.
Losing weight has always been a struggle for many people, especially those who have tried various diets and exercise routines with little to no results. It can be frustrating and demotivating to keep trying and failing. However, have you ever considered using a sauna to help with weight loss? Sauna therapy offers a wide range of benefits that extend beyond just relaxation. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits of using a sauna for weight loss and how it can help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Detoxification
One of the main benefits of sauna therapy is detoxification. Our bodies are constantly exposed to toxins from the food we eat, the air we breathe and the products we use. Over time, these toxins can build up, causing weight gain and other health issues. Using a sauna helps to eliminate these toxins through sweat, cleansing the body and promoting weight loss.
Increased metabolism
Using a sauna can also help to boost your metabolism. The high temperature in the sauna causes your heart rate to increase, which can lead to an increased metabolic rate. As a result, your body burns more calories, even at rest, leading to the potential for weight loss.
Reduced stress
Stress is a major factor in weight gain and an obstacle for many people trying to lose weight. The heat and relaxation of the sauna can help to reduce stress levels, improving your mood and making it easier to stick to your weight loss goals.
Improved circulation
In addition to detoxification, sauna therapy can also improve circulation. The heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, allowing for better blood flow. This can help to deliver nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, improving overall health and promoting weight loss.
Increased endurance
Lastly, using a sauna can also help to increase endurance. Regular use of a sauna can improve cardiovascular health, leading to better endurance during exercise and physical activity. This can lead to more effective weight loss efforts and an overall healthier lifestyle.
In conclusion, the benefits of using a sauna for weight loss and overall health are undeniable. Sauna therapy is a safe and effective alternative or complement to traditional weight loss methods, offering a wide range of benefits such as detoxification, increased metabolism, reduced stress, improved circulation, and increased endurance. Adding sauna therapy to your weight loss routine can help you achieve your weight loss goals and set you on the path to a healthier lifestyle. So next time you hit a weight loss plateau, consider incorporating a sauna session into your routine and let the benefits speak for themselves!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can Sauna Use Reduce Stress?
A: Yes, the heat and relaxation of the sauna can help to reduce stress levels and improve your mood.
Q: How Can a Sauna Help My Circulation?
A: The heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, allowing for better blood flow. This can help to deliver nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, improving your circulation.
Saunas have become increasingly popular as more and more people are discovering the numerous benefits they offer. From promoting relaxation and reducing stress to aiding in muscle recovery and detoxification, saunas offer a plethora of potential benefits for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, like any other activity, there are times when participating in sauna use may not be advisable. In this post, we explore the different scenarios when you should skip the sauna.
Saunas increase your heart rate and can lead to stress on your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. If you have a history of heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid using the sauna, as it may put undue stress on your body. It’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in any new health or wellness routines.
When you are feeling dehydrated or numbed due to anaesthetic use for surgery, sauna use can exacerbate these sensations and could potentially lead to dehydration or other unpleasant and harmful outcomes. Therefore, it is best to wait until you are properly hydrated, and your body has had time to heal following a recent surgery.
In cases of a weakened immune system or illness, sauna use may put further stress on your body, making your underlying health concerns worse. Additionally, there is a risk of spreading germs to other people using the sauna, so it’s best to stay away if you aren’t feeling well.
Sauna use increases circulation and in turn, may aggravate open wounds or sunburns. If you have open cuts or sores on your body, it’s best to avoid the sauna until you have fully healed.
Most saunas have age and height requirements. While many individuals can gain benefits from sauna use, it is essential to maintain safe usage by following guidelines about age and height restrictions.
Saunas offer many benefits for overall health and well-being, including promoting relaxation, soothing muscle tension, and enhancing sweating and detoxification. When participating in sauna use, it’s important to proceed with caution and avoid where necessary depending on your individual health needs and medical history. If you’re unsure whether you should use a sauna, it’s best to consult with your doctor before engaging in the practice. Remember, safety always comes first, and taking the necessary precautions will help ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and beneficial.
FAQ’S
Q: When should I avoid using the sauna?
A: There are a few times when avoiding the sauna is best; if you are pregnant, ill or have a heart condition and if you’re intoxicated or have sunburn.
Q: What are the potential risks of using a sauna?
A: When using a sauna, it is important to be aware of the potential risks that it may have. Some of these potential risks include; burns, dehydration and lowered blood pressure.
Saunas have been around for centuries and are used for health, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits. One of the most important factors when using a sauna is the temperature. But how hot should you let your sauna get? This is a common question that new sauna users often ask, and it’s a question that deserves some exploration. In this blog post, we’ll look at the different temperature ranges in saunas and discuss which one is best for you.
It’s important to note that the temperature of a sauna is a personal preference and varies from person to person. However, the recommended temperature range for a traditional sauna is between 76°C to 88°C (170°F to 190°F). This high temperature produces a lot of heat, which leads to sweating, dilated blood vessels, and increased heart rate. It’s thought that this extensive sweating helps the body to detoxify and relax muscles.
A factor to consider when deciding on the temperature of your sauna is the duration of your session. A typical sauna session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference and tolerance. If you’re new to saunas, start with a shorter session and work your way up. It’s better to start low and increase the temperature gradually, rather than starting high and risking any adverse reactions.
One common myth about saunas is that the hotter, the better. However, saunas that are hotter than the recommended temperatures are unsafe and can cause heat exhaustion and dehydration. If you’re feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous, it’s essential to leave the sauna immediately and seek medical attention. Additionally, it’s important to always listen to your body and adjust the temperature or duration of your sauna session accordingly.
Ultimately, the temperature of your sauna should be comfortable for you. When using a sauna for therapeutic or relaxation purposes, it’s important to be familiar with the temperature ranges in saunas and adjust accordingly. Always start low and gradually increase the temperature and duration of your sessions. Finally, it’s important to always stay hydrated, listen to your body, and never stay in the sauna beyond your comfort level. Enjoy your sauna session and let your body reap the benefits!
If you want to learn more about the optimal time to spend in a sauna then please read our blog on this.
The Sauna Temperature Guide: How Hot Should I Let my Sauna Get? FAQ’s
Q: How long should I spend in a Sauna?
A: A typical sauna session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference and tolerance.
Q: What are the benefits of using a Sauna?
A: The high temperature in a sauna leads to sweating, dilated blood vessels and increased heart rate. From the extensive sweating, this helps the body to detoxify and relax muscles.
Saunas and ice baths, such as the Chill Tub, are used for their numerous health benefits. While the two therapies may seem to be opposites, they are both known to promote wellness in different ways. Saunas involve exposing your body to high temperatures, while ice baths involve submerging your entire body in ice-cold water. This blog will explore the different health benefits of ice baths and saunas and how they differ.
Increased circulation
One of the biggest health benefits of an ice bath, like a Chill Tub, is increased circulation. When you immerse your body in cold water, your blood vessels constrict, which causes your blood to circulate more efficiently. Once you get out of the ice bath, your blood vessels dilate, leading to improved circulation. Saunas on the other hand, promote circulation by increasing your heart rate.
Reduced inflammation
Saunas are known to have anti-inflammatory benefits due to the heat they produce. For more information on health benefits of sauna use, read our blog – The Proven Health Benefits of Regular Sauna Use. Ice baths are also known to be effective in reducing inflammation. When your body is exposed to cold temperatures it triggers an anti-inflammatory response that reduces inflammation throughout your body.
Improves recovery time
Sauna use can help with muscle recovery by increasing blood flow to your muscles and reducing muscle tension. Ice baths are also popular therapy among athletes because they help reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time. The cold water helps flush out lactic acid, which builds up in your muscles during exercise.
Mental health benefits
In addition to physical benefits, both ice baths and saunas have mental health benefits. Saunas are known to reduce stress and anxiety, while ice baths can help improve mood and increase mental alertness. Some studies have also shown that regular use of saunas can reduce the risk of depression and other mental health disorders.
Overall, both saunas and ice baths have numerous health benefits, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer the feeling of warmth and relaxation, saunas may be the better option for you. If you’re looking to boost recovery time and improve circulation, ice baths may be the better choice.
Fire vs. Ice: The Difference Between Ice Bath and Sauna Health Benefits FAQ’s
Q: Do Saunas and Ice Baths offer mental health benefits as well physical benefits?
A: Yes, saunas are known to reduce stress and anxiety, while ice baths can help improve mood and increase mental alertness. Studies have shown that regular use of saunas can reduce the risk of depression and other mental health disorders.
Q: How can Saunas help with muscle recovery?
A: Saunas increase blood flow to your muscles and reduce muscle tension.
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