Introduction
Infrared saunas are getting popular fast! But, before buying one, you need to understand how much electricity it needs. Calculate this correctly, and you won’t have to pay extra money or get a surprise electric bill. This article will tell you how much electricity an infrared sauna uses and what factors will affect this number. Plus, it’ll let you know how to save energy while heating your sauna at home.
Overview of Infrared Sauna Technology
Infrared saunas employ infrared heaters. These heaters release infrared radiation that warms the body. Unlike conventional saunas, infrared saunas use much less electricity and are way more efficient in terms of energy.
In this article, we’ll look at the basics of infrared sauna technology and its electricity usage to better understand it.
How Does Infrared Sauna Work?
Infrared sauna technology is based on a form of energy that is invisible to us. It’s called infrared light. This type of light has been used therapeutically since the 1800s. In saunas, infrared light waves are reflected off panels in the walls. These convert the light into heat that directly warms your body and penetrates your skin and muscles.
Most infrared saunas use electricity to generate heat. Heating units are made of powerful coils that energize carbon or ceramic rods. These convert electrical current and resistive elements into heat without emitting anything harmful. It’s coated with insulation to keep particles from entering the air.
Heating units vary by model. But all aim to provide comfortable temperatures without using too much electricity. This way, you save on energy costs when using an infrared sauna. Depending on the size of your room, a sauna may use as little as 10 kWh per hour. That’s about the same as a cordless drill.
Benefits of Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas, also known as FIRS, have benefits that regular saunas don’t. They heat your body rather than using steam and hot air. The temperature is usually 110°F – 140°F.
Here are some potential benefits:
- Improved Circulation: Infrared waves may help muscles recover after exercise or injury.
- Weight Loss: It helps burn calories and decrease body fat.
- Detoxification: Removes heavy metals and toxins.
- Pain Relief: Targets joints and muscles in pain.
- Skin Benefits: Reduces wrinkles, improves skin tone and complexion, face lifting effects. All of these when done regularly with safety precautions!
How Much Electricity does Infrared Sauna Use?
Infrared saunas are a sweet treat for your home! They offer many health perks. But, when you get one, the electricity it needs is a must-know. Here, we’ll go in-depth and talk about the factors that impact how much power infrared saunas use:
- Size of the sauna
- Heater wattage of the sauna
- Type of sauna (e.g., far infrared, near-infrared, etc.)
- Insulation of the sauna
- Temperature settings
Factors Affecting the Electricity Usage of Infrared Sauna
The heaters’ wattage, the installation spot’s insulation, and the frequency of use all affect the amount of power used by an infrared sauna. Generally, a small-sized sauna uses 1,200 to 2,000 watts per hour. A medium to the large-sized sauna can use up to 4,000 watts. Insulation greatly reduces energy consumption. It can save up to 40%.
Efficiency rates are around 90-98%, and energy usage days per month range from 64-128 kWh, depending on size and watt ratings. Older models may not be as efficient as newer models with LED or halogen lights.
When purchasing, compare models in terms of power usage and peak temperature. Look for high-efficiency ratings. It should help you make an informed decision about electricity usage to save costs and get optimal results.
Average Electricity Usage of Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas use 250-500 watts of electricity, on average 400 watts, for a one-hour session. It depends on the type, size, and features of the sauna. Components like lights, fans, and stereos use more power than a traditional wood-burning sauna. Also, the temperature needs to rise quickly in colder climates, which use more watts.
An hour session of an average size infrared sauna costs 6 cents if using 1000 kWh per month. To keep track of power consumption, get a watt meter device to measure it.
Tips to Reduce the Electricity Usage of Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas are increasing in popularity. They provide many health benefits and help relax muscles. However, these saunas use more electricity than traditional ones. Here are some tips to reduce electricity usage:
- Get the correct wattage for the space. The optimum wattage is 240 volts with 5 or 6 amps per room.
- Install a temperature control panel. It will regulate the sauna temperature and prevent it from overusing energy.
- Design the space to be energy efficient. Use double-paned windows, reflective panels, aerogel insulation, draft shields, and other materials.
- Schedule regular maintenance checks. Have an expert inspect wiring connections to ensure the best connection points are used.
By following these tips, you can save electricity and benefit from using your infrared sauna!
Conclusion
To summarize, an infrared sauna can be great for relaxation and health. But, electricity usage should be considered. It depends on how often it is used, what size, and how many people. Talk to your provider and explore efficient models to remain within budget.
- Monitor the running time and study other sauna electricity use.
- Researching and understanding energy-efficient models can help you choose the best sauna and stay within budget.