Infrared vs traditional sauna: purchase and running cost
In our table the median infrared sauna lists at $6,248 and the median traditional sauna (heater included) at $7,022. Saunahandbook's 125-model report found medians of $6,050 for infrared and $6,936 for traditional (Saunahandbook). The bigger difference is often the electrical work and the power each session uses.
- $6,248Infrared median (our table)
- $7,022Traditional median (our table)
- 5.2Trad. kWh per session
- 1.3Infrared kWh per session
Electrical needs
- Infrared: Almost Heaven's Hinton and Laurel and Plunge's Infrared Sauna list 120V on a 20A dedicated circuit. Plunge's Infrared Sauna Pro runs on 240V.
- Traditional: 240V and a 30A breaker for a 6 kW heater, or 40A for 8 kW (Redwood Outdoors). It usually means a new circuit costing $700–$3,500 depending on the run (RenovCost).
Electricity per session
Using a 40-minute warm-up and a 30-minute session, a 6 kW traditional heater uses about 5.2 kWh (full power for 35 minutes, then half power, following Harvia). A 1,775 W infrared cabin at full power for 15 + 30 minutes uses about 1.3 kWh, and likely less if its panels cycle. At the US average 18.16¢/kWh, that's about $0.95 vs $0.24 per session.
Cheapest infrared saunas we list
| Product | Price | Freight | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EROMMY 3–4 Person Infrared (carbon)Infrared | $2,400 | Included | Universe of Comfort | True cost → |
| Durasage Health 3-Person Carbon InfraredInfrared | $2,500 | Included | Universe of Comfort | True cost → |
| Durasage Health 2-Person Carbon InfraredInfrared | $3,295 | Included | Universe of Comfort | True cost → |
| Coldture POD LITEInfrared | $3,999 | Varies | Coldture | True cost → |
| Finnmark FD-1 Full SpectrumInfrared | $4,695 | Included | Universe of Comfort | True cost → |
| Almost Heaven LaurelInfrared | $6,000 | Included | Almost Heaven | True cost → |
This compares cost only. The two types feel different, so try both if you can.
Safety first. Saunas and cold plunges put real stress on your heart and circulation. If you have a heart condition, high or low blood pressure, are pregnant, or take medication, talk to your doctor before you use one. We don’t make health claims. This site covers costs only.
Prices checked 1 Nov 2026 on retailer sites; methodology. Spot an error? Tell us.