If you’re in the market for a home sauna, it can be a little intimidating because in such a small market like Australia, there is actually a large amount of options, so deciding between brands, feature options and understanding the health claims (and if they are true or not) can actually be a tedious task.
We wanted to make things simpler for you (because we believe saunas are a great addition to your wellness routine), so our buying guide does just that: we cover the key sauna types, what installation typically involves in Australian homes and a simple way to estimate running costs.
Sauna types for Australian homes
There are two main sauna types most homeowners compare: infrared and traditional (Finnish-style). Both can suit a home, but they behave quite differently.
Infrared saunas (full-spectrum)
An infrared sauna uses infrared heaters as the heat source, so the experience is often a “gentler” dry heat compared with the classic high-heat sauna feel. Many people prefer infrared because it can be comfortable at lower room temperatures than a traditional sauna and it is much safer than dealing with steam and water heat.
In the Wellness range available through Just Spas, the infrared sauna models are designed for home use and are listed as 10amp / 240V, with stated temperature ranges that typically range from 50°C to 65°C (depending on the surroundings). This combination is ideal for Australian homes as it offers a straightforward setup without overcomplicating the electrical side.
Who do infrared saunas suit best
- First-time sauna buyers who want a dry-heat experience without extreme temperatures.
- Fitness and recovery-focused households that want regular sessions as part of a routine (without expecting guaranteed outcomes).
- Space-conscious homes (including some townhouses) that prefer a plug-in style option, where suitable.
Traditional saunas (Finnish-style)
Traditional saunas heat the room (and stones) via a sauna heater. You can add water to hot stones to increase humidity and create steam. Traditional sauna bathing is commonly associated with higher temperatures, often around 80°C to 100°C in classic setups.
Because of those higher temperatures and the heater design, traditional sauna heaters are often higher powered. For example, well-known heater manufacturers offer home sauna heater models in the 4.5 kW to 9 kW range (size-dependent), which can affect installation requirements and running cost.
Who traditional suits best
- Sauna Traditionalists wanting the classic high-heat experience.
- Homes where a dedicated electrical plan and suitable ventilation/clearances are already part of the renovation scope.
- People who specifically want the option of steam.
Best sauna for home use: how to choose (Australian checklist)
We’ve created a checklist to narrow down the best sauna for home use based on your needs and your home.
1. Where will it go?
Indoors
- Great for convenience and weather protection.
- Choose a spot with sensible airflow and clearance around the unit.
- Avoid placing it right next to water sources or in areas prone to damp.
Outdoors (undercover)
- Many Australians prefer outdoor placement to save indoor floor space.
- Plan for an undercover area that shields the unit from sun, rain and wind.
- If you are looking at a portable infrared sauna, Wellness specifically recommends outdoor placement only in a sheltered area away from the weather.
2. Size and capacity
Think about how you will actually use it most weeks, along with your household size.
- 1–2 person: ideal for solo sessions or couples and usually easiest to place in smaller homes.
- 2–3 person: a popular “family home” size if you want elbow room.
- 3–4 person: best if you will genuinely use it with family or friends.
As a practical reference point, the Wellness range lists these approximate sizes
- 1–2 person: 1000 × 950 × 1900 mm
- 2–3 person: 1190 × 1040 × 1900 mm
- 3–4 person: 1450 × 1040 × 1900 mm
Our tip: measure your intended area and also measure the path to get your sauna to its final location (think doorways, stairs, tight corners, etc).
3. Heat style preference
Ask yourself which sentence sounds more like you:
"I want a lower-temp dry heat that still feels like a proper session."
- You may prefer infrared.
"I want the classic high-heat sauna experience and I like the option of steam."
- You may prefer traditional.
4. Running cost sensitivity
The running cost of saunas are influenced by:
- How often do you use it and for how long.
- The length it takes to warm up.
- Location and ambient temperature (a cold garage in winter is different from an internal room).
- Your electricity tariff type (flat rate versus time-of-use).
If you are cost-sensitive, it is worth doing a simple estimate before you buy (check out our calculator section below, to help you work this out).
5. Controls and everyday usability
Look for features that make it easy to stick with:
- Timers, temperature controls and simple panels.
- Lighting and entertainment features if they matter to you.
For example, the Wellness Infrared Sauna range has a integrated control panel with features like timers and Bluetooth audio.
Installation basics in Australia
Electrical planning: do this first
Even if the sauna seems “plug and play”, always check the product manual and plan the electrical side early.
- The Wellness infrared sauna models list 10amp / 240V, which aligns with a standard household power point in many homes.
- Traditional sauna heaters may require more substantial wiring and a dedicated circuit (often due to higher kW ratings).
Important safety note: Don’t do your own electrical work! Electrical wiring work must be done by, or under the supervision of, a licensed electrician (requirements vary by state, but the principle is consistent).
Location, airflow and moisture
Plan for:
- Clearance and ventilation: allow airflow around the unit and follow manufacturer spacing requirements.
- Dry, level flooring: if the area is damp, fix that first and let it fully dry before assembly.
Outdoor protection: if outdoors, keep it under cover and protected from the elements.
Delivery and access
Before ordering, check:
- Door widths and hallway turns.
- Stair access.
- Where the unit will be assembled (some are easier to assemble in position).
How much does a sauna cost to run in Australia?
Running costs vary by model power (kW), time used and your electricity rate (c/kWh). Your rate is shown on your bill and it is commonly listed in cents per kilowatt-hour (c/kWh).
Also note: many households are on tariffs that can change by time of day (peak and off-peak).
As a general rule, Australian electricity usage rates can vary significantly by state, network and tariff, with many households falling somewhere in the broad range of around mid-20s to 40+ cents per kWh (as of January 2026).
The simple running cost formula
Running cost ($) = kW × hours × your rate ($/kWh)
How to use it:
- Find the sauna’s kW rating on the spec sheet (or convert watts to kW: 2400W = 2.4kW).
- Estimate how long you run it per session (including warm-up).
- Multiply by your electricity rate.
Example A: 10A infrared sauna used 3x/week
The Wellness catalogue lists our infrared saunas as 10amp / 240V. A 10A circuit at ~240V is up to about 2.4 kW at maximum draw (your actual draw can be lower and may cycle).
Assumptions (example only)
The Wellness catalogue lists our infrared saunas as 10amp / 240V. A 10A circuit at ~240V is up to about 2.4 kW at maximum draw (your actual draw can be lower and may cycle).
Estimate
- Per session: 6 × 1 × 0.30 = $1.80
- Per week: $1.80 × 2 = $3.60
- Per year: $3.60 × 52 = $187.20
So, are infrared sauna running costs lower?
Often, infrared sauna running costs can work out lower simply because the power draw is commonly lower than a traditional heater, but it is never guaranteed. It depends on:
- Your sauna’s kW rating
- Your ambient conditions (cold areas require more energy)
- Session length and frequency
- Your tariff (especially time-of-use)
Ready to join the sauna lifestyle or take the next step into your purchase research? You can:
- Read our deeper explainer: Infrared Saunas Australia and find out how they work.
- Visit a showroom by finding your local store by using the Just Spas Store Locator to see options in person.
Download the Wellness Saunas & Ice Baths Catalogue for sizes, inclusions and power requirements.
Saunas may support relaxation and recovery for many people, but outcomes vary. If you have health concerns (especially cardiovascular issues, pregnancy, or heat sensitivity), speak with your GP first. For product claims and comparisons, it is also worth keeping the ACCC’s guidance on avoiding false or misleading claims in mind.
FAQs
What are the main sauna types for homes?
Most homeowners compare infrared and traditional (Finnish-style). Infrared is often lower-temp dry heat, while traditional commonly runs hotter and can include steam.
What is the best sauna for home use in Australia?
We always believe that the best option is the one that fits your space, your electrical setup and how you like the heat. For many households, a standard power-point infrared model can be the simplest starting point, while traditional saunas are more suited to renovation-ready homes chasing high-heat sessions.
How much does a sauna cost to run in Australia?
Use: kW × hours × your rate ($/kWh). Your bill shows the rate in c/kWh and tariff types can vary (including time-of-use).
Are infrared sauna running costs cheaper than traditional?
They can be, but it depends on the kW rating, warm-up time, insulation and your tariff. Compare your shortlisted models using the same formula to keep it apples-to-apples.
Do I need a dedicated power circuit?
Ideally, but it is not always the case. Some infrared models are designed around standard household outlets, while many traditional heaters may require dedicated wiring due to higher power. Always check the manual and use a licensed electrician for electrical work.
How much space do I need?
Start with the sauna’s external measurements, then add clearance for airflow and comfortable access. For example, Wellness Sauna models like the 1–2 person models are around 1000 × 950 × 1900 mm, scaling up to 1450 × 1040 × 1900 mm for 3–4 person.
What should I avoid when installing a home sauna?
Avoid damp locations, cramped clearances and DIY electrical work. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, keep outdoor installs sheltered and use a licensed electrician where wiring is involved.
