Overview of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas offer a variety of health and wellness benefits, including helping to flush toxins from the body and improve circulation. The cost of an infrared sauna can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size and features of the sauna.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of infrared saunas to help you decide if an infrared sauna is proper for you:
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas offer several physical, mental, and emotional benefits that can improve overall well-being. By using infrared rays, these saunas can raise your temperature, allowing your body to sweat on the inside and out. It helps reduce inflammation and toxins, improve circulation, and alleviate stress.
Other benefits include:
- Pain relief – Reducing muscle soreness, joint pain, and stiffness
- Weight loss assistance – Increasing sweating rate, cleansing toxins from the body, increasing metabolism
- Cardiovascular exercise – Improving heart rate and burning calories
- Relaxation – Easing anxiety, reducing stress levels, and providing a sense of relaxation
- Detoxification – Helping to flush out toxic substances stored in the body
- Improved skin appearance – Lowering acne, discoloration, and wrinkles due to the improved circulation of blood through the skin
Types of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas provide many of the same benefits as typical saunas, such as muscle relaxation and increased blood flow and circulation. However, these saunas use infrared light to generate heat in your body rather than just heating the air in the room. As a result, it provides for a more comfortable, deeper penetrating heat. Infrared saunas come in three varieties: near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared. Each type is unique and offers its advantages.
- Near-Infrared Saunas – Near-infrared (NIR) saunas are equipped with carbon or ceramic heaters that emit light at 750–1400 nanometers (nm). They are often used for healing and tissue stimulation because they have the shortest wavelength, which can penetrate deep into the skin. The intense heat produced by near-infrared saunas helps to increase circulation and release toxins from the body.
- Mid-Infrared Saunas – Mid-infrared (MIR) saunas are usually heated between 900–1,200 nm with ceramic or quartz lamps. They provide a soft, diffused warmth that penetrates up to 3 inches beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate healing from within. The heat from mid-infrared lamps offers a milder sweat session that’s quite similar to sitting out in natural sunlight for a few minutes each day – especially beneficial for those coping with chronic health problems or skin issues like eczema or psoriasis who may need longer exposure times than traditional near or far infrared therapies can offer.
- Far InfraRed Saunas – Far infrared (FIR) saunas use lamps and emits light at 4–14 um, which is not visible but creates invisible radiation that creates deep heat penetration through multiple wavelengths are very effective in increasing perspiration levels, although their lower level of intensity often makes them more enjoyable to use than other forms of sauna therapy – making them suitable for everyone regardless physical condition! This thermal therapy can also decrease pain levels by increasing endorphin production and help reduce inflammation of joint tissues throughout your body, including muscles along back areas most likely affected by arthritis.
Factors Affecting Cost
There are several factors to consider when determining the cost of an infrared sauna. These include the type of construction, size, and features. The materials and technologies used in the construction of the sauna also affect pricing. Finally, the brand, retailer, or installation service will also influence the cost.
Let’s look at all the factors that contribute to the cost of an infrared sauna:
- Type of construction
- Size
- Features
- Materials and Technologies
- Brand
- Retailer
- Installation service
Size of the Sauna
When looking at infrared saunas, the size of the sauna is one of the key factors in determining the cost. The size of an infrared sauna will affect the price and how many people can use it at a time. In general, a larger sauna will have higher upfront costs, but more people can use it, and over time, it may become less expensive if used frequently.
For example, a single-person model such as a two or 3-person model may cost $2,000 to $3,000 or more depending on features. On the other hand, if you want an 8-person far infrared sauna, you could expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 or more, depending on the features included.
Size is an important factor and should be considered when shopping for an infrared sauna to purchase one that meets your needs without overspending. Other factors like materials used, design elements, and heating elements can also all impact cost and should be considered when selecting your infrared sauna.
Quality of Materials
The quality of materials is one key factor affecting an infrared sauna’s cost. While different manufacturers use different grades and types of materials, there are some general guidelines to consider.
- Wood: Higher quality wood, such as cedar, may cost more than other types of wood, but it will last longer and have better insulation properties, reducing energy costs over time. Additionally, wood-frame saunas may appeal to some consumers’ aesthetic preferences more than a metal frame.
- Doors: Doors come in various sizes and styles, including all-glass or tempered glass units with wooden frames. The selected type directly impacts the overall cost of a sauna package. Tempered glass with a wooden frame may be less expensive than all-glass doors, though both provide good insulation and heat retention.
- Heaters: Lower-wattage heaters may require additional protection from burns and therefore require extra shielding or material costs that can add up quickly for larger units. High-wattage heaters require larger breakers and amperage ratings, which incur increased service charges from the electric company as well as specialized electrical knowledge needed when hard wiring them into your home’s electrical system — also leading to the higher total cost for the installation portion at least (since you can’t just plug in these types of heaters).
Brand
When purchasing an infrared sauna, one of the primary factors determining the cost of the unit is the brand. Many reputable companies, such as Dynamic, Medical Thermal, Sauna Ray, and Helo, produce high-quality saunas from top-quality materials. These products typically have a higher price tag due to superior performance and construction. On the other hand, generic brands or knock-offs may sell for significantly lower prices. Still, they may not provide the same level of durability or efficiency as their more established counterparts. Be sure to research any potential purchase thoroughly to ensure you are getting a quality product.
Installation Costs
Many people may not consider the installation cost when looking into infrared saunas, but it can significantly affect the total cost. Installation costs vary depending on how much work needs to be done and where the infrared sauna will be located. For example, if you are building a new spa and want to include an infrared sauna with permanent installation, these costs can be much higher than if you opt for an infrared sauna that is portable or easy to assemble.
Most homeowners who want to install an existing sauna will need a professional electrician to run the power wiring, increasing the cost. Additional costs may include hiring professionals for plumbing needs and carpentry work. As such, thorough research into the installation requirements is recommended before purchasing.
Average Cost of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas offer several health benefits, such as improving circulation, reducing stress, and burning calories. However, when considering the purchase of an infrared sauna, a major factor to consider is the cost. Prices for infrared saunas vary significantly depending on the size, features, and quality of the sauna.
In this article, we will discuss the average cost of infrared saunas.
Entry-Level Saunas
When researching the average cost of infrared saunas, it is important to consider that several varieties are on the market today. Generally, entry-level saunas, or those smaller in size and only use lower-end materials, will be the most affordable option and offer basic functionality. These models can be as low as $500 to $2,000 and may feature wooden or vinyl benches and some basic safety features.
These saunas may include extra options such as built-in sound systems or chromotherapy lights with different color settings. Additionally, manufacturers may offer add-on components such as aromatherapy diffusers for an additional fee. It is important to note that some entry-level infrared saunas have a shorter lifespan than more expensive models due to their construction with lower-quality materials.
Mid-Range Saunas
Mid-range infrared saunas typically range in price from $2,000 – $3,000. These saunas are designed to offer both affordability and customization, allowing you to find a sauna that fits your needs and budget.
Examples of mid-range infrared saunas include:
- Three-person models with ceramic and carbon heaters.
- Full wood paneling for maximum insulation.
- MP3 audio players for an enjoyable ambiance.
- Tempered glass door panels for ventilation and viewing.
- Upgraded safety features like stainless steel wires and self-regulating digital control systems.
When looking into mid-range saunas, it’s a good idea to research the specific components in your model to know what exactly you are purchasing.
High-End Saunas
High-end saunas are much higher in quality than other options and can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000, with countless customization options and accessories to consider. Top-of-the-line infrared saunas offer advanced features such as full digital display technology, auto climate control with humidity sensors, aromatherapy diffusion capabilities, and stereo systems that allow music to be played directly from your smartphone.
Many high-end saunas come with insulated walls for maximum heat retention giving you an enhanced thermal experience. Carefully crafted from large hemlock boards, these luxurious models generate maximum airflow throughout the interior while maintaining their timeless visual appeal. Additionally, many high-end infrared saunas are crafted with a unique cornerless design that dramatically enhances the usable interior space allowing you to luxuriate in comfort and completely immerse yourself in relaxation.
Additional Costs
Infrared saunas might come with a hefty upfront cost, but there are additional costs that you should consider before making your purchase. It goes beyond the price of the sauna itself and into various other factors. In this section, we will go over the various additional costs associated with buying and using an infrared sauna:
- Installation costs
- Electricity costs
- Maintenance costs
- Replacement parts
- Accessories
Maintenance
An infrared sauna is a great way to relax and get all the health benefits of saunas. However, like any other appliance, regular upkeep and maintenance are necessary to keep your infrared sauna running efficiently.
Aside from the cost of installation and purchase of the unit, some additional costs come with using an infrared sauna that should be considered when budgeting. Proper maintenance requires several tasks ranging from changing out light bulbs to maintaining the floor. It is important to consider these tasks as you plan for the cost of investing in an infrared sauna.
Maintenance:
- Lightbulbs: Depending on how much you use your sauna, replace the bulbs in your infrared unit every three to four months. It is important to use bulbs rated for this type of fixture as other types may not work correctly or could even cause damage.
- Floor: Cleaning and replacing floor mats or tiles periodically is important for hygiene and preventing slips or falls.
- Control Panel/Technology: You must ensure that all control systems—such as temperature sensors and external controllers—function correctly. A qualified technician should do regular inspections to ensure safety features are working properly if needed; they should also check all wiring connections while inspecting parts.
Accessories
When buying an infrared sauna, it is essential to factor in the cost of additional accessories. Depending on how and where you plan to enjoy the sauna experience, additional items may be required for a comfortable and safe experience.
Popular accessories include:
- Floor mats
- Backrests
- Armrests
- Covers
- Storage stools
These items protect surfaces from heat and moisture damage and provide additional comfort while enjoying the sauna.
Some people choose to enhance their experience with aromatherapy diffusers or sound systems to play calming music during the session. Other popular additions include foot massage systems, lighting elements, or custom-made benches. It is important to ensure that any extra features are compatible with your chosen sauna model before buying them.
Installing an infrared sauna requires carefully considering space, ventilation, and power supply requirements. When budgeting for equipment and associated costs, consider installation costs related to electrical wiring and hardware mounting or delivery fees if applicable in your area.
Conclusion
When looking at infrared sauna prices, numerous factors determine the overall cost. These include the type of construction and materials used, the size and features of the unit, as well, and additional installation requirements such as an outside vent or heater. Additionally, electrical hookups need to be considered depending on the model chosen. As a result, prices can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a basic infrared sauna to several thousand dollars for a luxury model.
It is important to research multiple models and options before purchasing so you can find the best unit for your space and budget:
- Type of construction and materials used
- Size and features of the unit
- Additional installation requirements, such as an outside vent or heater
- Electrical hookups
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average cost of an infrared sauna?
Prices for infrared saunas can vary greatly, but you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000.
2. What factors affect the cost of an infrared sauna?
The size, quality of materials, additional features, and brand are all factors that can affect the cost of an infrared sauna.
3. Is it worth paying more for a higher-end infrared sauna?
Higher-end infrared saunas often have more advanced heating technology, better insulation, and additional health benefits. But ultimately, whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your preferences and budget.
4. How much should I expect to pay for additional features like chromotherapy or sound systems?
Add-ons like chromotherapy or sound systems can increase the cost of an infrared sauna by several hundred dollars each.
5. Are there any additional costs associated with owning an infrared sauna?
Aside from the initial purchase price, there may be costs associated with electricity usage and maintenance over time.
6. Can I find an affordable infrared sauna with health benefits?
Infrared saunas come in various price points, and even less expensive models can offer health benefits like improved circulation and relaxation.