The real cost to build and run a home sauna in Australia

Thinking about installing a sauna at home? Whether you’re considering a traditional Finnish sauna or a modern infrared model, the average cost for a quality prefab sauna unit is around $10,000.

However, prices can range from $3,000 for a basic setup to over $30,000 for larger or fully customised designs, depending on the type, size, and features you choose.

So how much does a sauna really cost?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll tell you more about the — 

• Cost of sauna at different price points
• Factors that impact the cost of a home sauna
• Cost of indoor vs. outdoor sauna
• Other home sauna costs to consider
• Cost of home sauna maintenance
• Pros and cons of DIY sauna installation
• Tips to save on buying, running, and maintaining a sauna at home

Understanding the variables that influence price and running costs can help you make a decision that fits your budget and lifestyle. Read this guide before starting your sauna at home project.

Home sauna costs from $3,000 to $30,000

At home sauna cost varies widely based on size, type, materials, and customisation.

The low estimate, $3,000, is based on typical basic, entry-level models that includes a prefab sauna product only, and excludes installation costs.

In general, there is no minimum space requirement for a home sauna. SDS Australia can tailor-fit a sauna to any available space you have at home. The main consideration for space would be the size of the heater you’re planning to use.

Indicated below are the average costs for a low-end, mid-range, and high-end sauna. Note that the cost ranges below account for prices across different types of sauna, and thus pulls average costs whether for a traditional, steam, or infrared sauna.

For the sake of comparison, the following assumptions were used:

• A 4-person sauna is about 2m x 2m x 2m
• A 2-person sauna is roughly about 1.3m x 1.3m x 2m

Price range for 2-person and 4-person sauna

Expect to pay more for larger saunas. Beyond size, however, the final sauna price depends on several other factors.

Keep in mind that, when it comes to saunas, a higher upfront cost such as in the case of choosing western cedar wood over cheaper timber, could translate to longer-lasting use and lower maintenance costs.

Factors that impact the cost of owning and running a sauna

How much does it cost to build a sauna? The cost to build and run a sauna at home will depend on the choices you make.

Do you prefer a quick and easy installation over customising the sauna room to your liking? Would you prefer cedar over timber wood? Do you want to use coal or an infrared heater?

Prefab or custom

A custom sauna allows for personalisation but comes at a higher sauna cost compared to prefab options. What’s indicated below are just ballpark estimates, however, and a prefab sauna can easily cost more, usually depending on the size, make, and model.

• Custom Saunas: Tailored to your specific needs, custom saunas can cost you between $10,000 and $30,000 or more.
• Prefab Saunas: These are ready-made units that are easier to install. Prices range from $6,000 to $18,000.

Wood used

Homeowners planning to add saunas to their homes usually choose timber which is ideal for keeping the heat in. For a more affordable price, timber can keep your sauna well insulated.

Check out SDS Australia’s Exelia Indoor Sauna. Made with naturally rot- and moisture-resistant Thermo Aspen wood, this sauna is built to perform and last for a very long time.

Western Red Cedar and Canadian Hemlock are popular choices for home saunas due to their natural durability and moisture-resistant properties. They’re also known for releasing a natural woody scent that adds to a relaxing sauna experience. Expect to pay premium price points if you decide to go for these wood variants.

Types of heating mechanism

How much you pay for a home sauna project is largely influenced by the type of heating mechanism you end up selecting. Take note how some sauna kits do not include heating equipment so make sure to check with your supplier before buying.

Traditional Finnish saunas generally cost more upfront but require cheaper running cost over the long term.

Here’s a summary of pricing in Australia for each heating mechanism:

• Traditional Finnish sauna: Uses electric or wood-fired heaters. Costs for heaters range from $1,500 to $10,000.
• Infrared sauna at home: Uses infrared heaters, costing between $300 and $4,500.
• Steam room or steam sauna: Requires a steam generator, adding to the initial cost.

Check out Electric, Wood-fired, Infrared Heaters & Accessories from SDS Australia.

Installation costs

Sauna installation costs vary depending on the complexity of your project.

Prefab sauna kits generally take less effort and time to build than a custom-built sauna, and thus, usually costs less to set up.

An indoor sauna will likely require a home renovation, depending on the unique requirements for the sauna you’re buying and your home.

On average, expect to pay the following fees for home sauna installation:

• Labor costs: $50 to $100 per hour, depending on your location and prevailing local rates.
• Electrical work: Additional costs if new wiring or circuits are needed. A dedicated circuit is typically installed to operate larger heaters to accommodate higher voltage requirements.
• Plumbing fees: Additional work to be done if drainage work will be required.

Keep in mind that these are very rough estimates. Get in touch with SDS Australia for more information.

Electricity and Local Rates

Home sauna running costs depend on your local electricity rates and how often you use your sauna.

Here’s a sample computation, assuming that the average electricity rate where you live is $0.25 per kilowatt-hour:

How much does it cost to run a sauna? On average, expect to add $10 to $30 to your monthly electricity bill. The heating mechanism you prefer, frequency of use, and the prevailing electricity rate from your power provider will determine by how much your electricity cost rises.

Outdoor vs. indoor home sauna cost

Which one is more expensive to build? Typically, an indoor home sauna would cost you more but, depending on the choices you make, an outdoor sauna may be more expensive.

Both the upfront and maintenance costs for either indoor or outdoor sauna also depends on the type of heating mechanism you choose.

Additional work on your ventilation and plumbing systems may  be required for proper drainage, insulation, ventilation, and moisture control around your home. These two considerations often make an outdoor sauna the cheaper choice than an indoor sauna.

Ventilation solutions vary based on house layout and space. Sometimes, it’s possible to vent directly outdoors if the sauna is directly against an external wall. Otherwise, other more complex options have to be considered. 

As for plumbing, preventing water buildup is the top goal. With proper drainage, your home sauna stays functional and safe which makes plumbing a non-negotiable requirement.

Additional roofing and special finishing may be needed for an outdoor sauna. Regularly priced between $8,000 and upwards of  $30,000, thick wood barrel saunas are often more expensive than an entry level indoor sauna.

Made with a 40mm Nordic Thermo Spruce and high-quality Thermo Aspen flooring, SDS Australia’s Thermo Barrel Sauna also comes with a rot resistant design and thermally modified wood. 

Expect to spend an additional $400 to $900 more for roofing.

Sauna accessories: Must-have or nice-to-have?

Adding features to your sauna will increase the total cost of your sauna. Make sure to check all inclusions with your supplier before you buy. You might be caught by surprise how some essential accessories like heaters, thermometers, and benches may have to be purchased separately.

Luxury items like Bluetooth speakers, mood lighting, and advanced air circulation systems can easily add up to $1,000 or more to your home sauna project.

Accessories enhance your at home sauna experience but add to the sauna price.

• Must-haves:
  • Thermometer and Hygrometer: $50 to $150
  • Lighting: $100 to $500
  • Sauna Stones: $50 to $200
• Nice-to-haves:
  • Sound System: $200 to $1,000
  • Aromatherapy Oils: $20 to $100
  • LED Lighting Effects: $300 to $1,000

Does home location affect the cost of your sauna?

Yes, your location in Australia can influence the cost due to shipping fees and local installation costs.

For example, shipping a sauna to Sydney could range from $700 to $900, while delivering to Brisbane could cost $900 to $1,000. Rural areas will likely incur higher shipping costs.

SDS Australia delivers anywhere in the country. For more accurate information on shipping costs, please contact us.

Cost of Home Sauna Maintenance

After installation, maintaining your sauna becomes an ongoing cost. This includes electricity, occasional repairs, and cleaning.

Cost of electricity

Typical energy consumption of a sauna is 16 kilowatts. Estimates vary based on size and setup. Electricity cost varies per location and energy provider.

Here’s a rough estimate of electricity costs:

• Traditional Sauna: Can add $20 to $30 per month, depending on usage.
• Infrared Sauna: Adds about $10 to $20 per month.

Maintenance works and frequency

Once you have your home sauna up and running, maintenance automatically becomes part of your budget.

Here are some expenses you can expect:

• Wood re-staining: Every 2 to 3 years at $200 to $500.
• Heater Maintenance: Annually, costing $150 to $300 — must include replacement of sauna rocks.
• Repairs: Varies based on issues, ranging from $200 to $1,000.
• Heater replacement: Approximately every 5 years — cost depends on preferred heating mechanism.
• Deep cleaning and upkeep: At least quarterly, but ideally increasing frequency of cleaning accordingly with frequency of use, costs $150 to $300 in professional cleaners’ fees. Set aside a budget for sanding wooden parts and oiling the timber too.

Should you DIY sauna installation or not?

DIY sauna installation kits are widely available for Aussies who love to set up their own home saunas. However, it is advisable that you must have some level of knowledge in construction when choosing this option.

Check out SDS Australia’s timber and construction materials for your home sauna project.

If you have special needs, such as for physical rehab or recovery, sauna design may require certain accessibility and ergonomic features that professionals can advise on.

Hiring professionals at SDS Australia ensures:

• Quality Workmanship: Fast and quality expert installation for safety and longevity.
• Customisation: Tailored solutions to fit your space and preferences.
• Warranty and support: Peace of mind with ongoing service and support.

Tips to save on home sauna cost to build and run

Here are points to add to your home sauna project checklist:

1. Choose the right sauna size: Opt for a 2-person sauna if you’re limited on space and budget. Consider a 4-person sauna only if you have sufficient space in your home or lawn.
2. Plan for location: If you have available open space, opt for an outdoor sauna.
3. Check local building codes: Find out if there are local residential ordinances or building codes that could limit your options as to where you set up your sauna and what type of sauna is allowed where you live.
4. Consider sauna design options: Prefab saunas are the easiest to install, and thus require lower installation cost.
5. Compare sauna heating mechanisms: Upfront costs matter but remember to check the wattage for your heater to see how much it will add to your monthly energy bill.
6. Limit DIY: Make sure you have the right qualifications or experience if you’d rather DIY than hire contractors. Fixes and repairs due to wrong installation will only cost you more time and money.
7. Compare quotes: Request pricing, scope of work, and qualifications from at least three sauna suppliers and contractors. Make sure you get warranties on products and services.

Canvas sauna supplies and prices, and set a reasonable budget for your home sauna project. Beyond budget considerations, place a premium on making sure you’re choosing the right materials for your safety, like non-slip tiles.

Ready to take the next step? SDS Australia can help you go over your options before you buy a sauna.

Contact Us Today to speak to an expert and know more about how much does a sauna cost.