Economics Of Sunbeds: Is Owning Or Renting Right For You?

Offering your clients the option to use a sunbed is a great way to boost your business. But before buying or renting a sunbed, consider the economics involved. In this article, we'll guide you through the true costs of owning or renting a sunbed, so you can make an informed decision that benefits you and your clients.

The costs of owning a sunbeds

When considering the cost of a sunbed, there are two main factors: the initial purchase price and the ongoing costs. Sunbed prices vary widely depending on the model, brand, and features. A basic sunbed may cost a few hundred pounds, while a high-end model can cost several thousand pounds.

Ongoing costs of sunbed ownership

In addition to the initial purchase price, owning a sunbed involves ongoing costs that you should factor into the decision-making process. The highest ongoing costs of owning a sunbed include maintenance and repairs, replacement tubes and electricity.

Electrical costs to run a sunbed at your business

The cost to run a sunbed depends on several factors, including the wattage of the tubes, the length of time the sunbed is used and the cost of electricity in your area. On average, a sunbed uses between 4 and 13 kilowatts of electricity per hour. In the UK, the average cost for electricity from April to June 2023 is around 33.2p per kilowatt-hour. This means running a sunbed for an hour could cost anywhere from £1 to £ 4.5.

Cost to maintain a sunbed

Maintaining a sunbed is an ongoing cost to consider. Sunbeds require regular cleaning and disinfecting to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Additionally, you need to replace the tubes if they happen to malfunction which can cost between £20 and £100 per lamp — depending on the type of sunbed. Sunbed manufacturers also recommend replacing the entire set of lamps every 500 hours, which can cost hundreds of pounds.

The costs of Renting a sunbed

Now that we've looked at the costs of owning a sunbed let's explore the option of renting. Renting a sunbed can be cost-effective for those who don't want to commit to the high upfront costs of buying a sunbed. Rental prices vary depending on the company and the length of the rental period. Still, they generally range from £20.00+ VAT to £80.00 + VAT per week.

Pros and cons of renting a sunbed

Renting a sunbed also has its pros and cons. The main advantage is that you can enjoy the benefits of a sunbed without the high upfront costs. Rental agreements can be flexible, and you can rent for short or long periods. Additionally, rental companies are responsible for maintenance and repairs which can save you time and money.

Pros:

•         Lower upfront costs compared to buying.
•         Flexible rental agreements.
•         Rental companies are responsible for maintenance and repairs.

Cons:

•         You don't own the sunbed.
•         Rental costs can add up over time.
•         You may have limited control over the features and customisation options.

Sunbed Rental vs Purchase: How to Decide Which Option is Right for You

When deciding whether to buy or rent a sunbed, you should consider a range of factors such as:

•         Budget constraints
•         Expected usage and demand from clients
•         Space and electrical requirements
•         Maintenance and repair costs
•         Long-term business goals and plans

Case studies

To help make the decision process easier, here are some case studies of salons that have either bought or rented sunbeds:

Case Study 1: Salon A

Purchased a sunbed for £5,000 and spent an additional £2,000 to remodel their salon and maintenance. After a year, they made £7,500 in sunbed revenue.  

Pros of Buying:

•         Long-term investment: If the salon plans to use the sunbed regularly for several years, purchasing may be more cost-effective in the long run.
•         Ownership: The salon has full ownership and control over the sunbed and can customise it to meet their specific needs.

Cons of Buying:

•         High upfront costs: Purchasing a sunbed can be a significant investment, with high upfront costs for the equipment and installation.
•         Maintenance and repairs: The salon is responsible for all maintenance and repairs which can be costly and time-consuming.

Case Study 2: Salon B

Salon B rented a sunbed for £200 per month, which included maintenance and replacement bulbs. After a year, they spent £2,400 but made £6,000 in sunbed revenue.

Pros of Renting:

•         Lower upfront costs: Renting a sunbed requires less upfront investment than purchasing, making it a more affordable option for some businesses.
•         Maintenance included: The rental company handles all maintenance and repairs, which can save time and money.

Cons of Renting:

•         Monthly expenses: Renting requires ongoing monthly expenses, which can add up over time.
•         Limited customisation: The salon may have limited control over the features and settings of the rented sunbed, depending on the rental agreement.

Conclusion

When it comes to the economics of sunbeds, there are many factors to consider. On the one hand, owning a sunbed can be a significant financial investment, providing greater control and flexibility in the long term. On the other hand, renting a sunbed can be cost-effective for those who don't want to commit to the upfront ownership costs.

Ultimately, buying or renting a sunbed depends on your situation and preferences. Take into account the upfront and ongoing costs of ownership, as well as the flexibility and convenience of renting. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that is right for you.

So, if you're wondering, "How much are sunbeds?" remember that the actual cost of owning or renting a sunbed goes beyond the initial purchase price. Consider the ongoing costs — maintenance and electricity — and the pros and cons of each option, to make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

FAQ

How much are 10 minutes on a sunbed?

The cost of 10 minutes on a sunbed varies depending on factors such as the lamp's wattage, session time and regional electricity rates. On average, a sunbed uses between 4 and 13 kilowatts of electricity per hour, and the cost of electricity in the UK is around 33.2p per kilowatt-hour. Therefore, 10 minutes on a sunbed could cost anywhere from 20p to 70p.

Can I claim the cost of a sunbed as a business expense?

Yes, if you are a business owner, you may be able to claim the cost of a sunbed as a business expense or apply for a small business rate relief. However, you should consult a tax professional to ensure you follow the correct guidelines for claiming business expenses.

How can I market my sunbed services effectively?

You can use various methods to market your sunbed services effect to market your sunbed effectively, including social media, email marketing and in-store promotions. You may also consider partnering with local beauty salons or fitness centres to expand your customer base.