Electricity Cost Calculator

How this calculator works

This tool estimates the monthly electricity cost of running your sauna or cold plunge chiller. It uses a standard formula: (Wattage ÷ 1,000) × Hours per session × Sessions per week × 4.33 weeks × your electricity rate.

Most manufacturers list the wattage on the spec sheet or the heater itself. If you aren’t sure of your exact local electricity rate, the US average is around $0.18 per kWh, but you can check your recent utility bill for the precise number.

Why this matters for small spaces

In a small apartment or home, adding a high-draw appliance like a traditional 4,500W sauna can significantly impact your monthly budget. Running a 4,500W sauna for just a few hours a week can add $20–$40 to your bill, while a 300W cold plunge chiller costs just a few dollars a month. Knowing these numbers before you buy helps you choose an appliance that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

Tips to lower your electricity cost

• Use a timer: Don’t leave the sauna or chiller running longer than necessary.
• Insulate your space: Better insulation means the heater doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain temperature.
• Upgrade to infrared: Infrared saunas typically use 1,500W, which is less than half the wattage of traditional saunas and far cheaper to run.
• Check your rate: Electricity rates vary wildly by state. If you live in an area with high rates (like California or Hawaii), your costs will be higher than the default $0.18.

Frequently asked questions

Does a cold plunge chiller use a lot of electricity?
No. Most residential chillers run at around 300W. If you run it 24/7 to keep the water cold, it will still only cost around $15–$20 a month on average.

Is it cheaper to run a traditional or infrared sauna?
Infrared saunas are significantly cheaper to run because they draw less power (typically 1,500W vs. 4,500W for traditional). However, infrared saunas take slightly longer to heat up.

Can I plug a sauna into a standard wall outlet?
Most infrared saunas can plug into a standard 120V outlet, but traditional saunas usually require a dedicated 240V circuit. Always check the manufacturer’s electrical requirements before buying.