Recently, the popularity of barrel saunas has sparked controversy. Some traditional sauna builders argue that the bench height is too low, which is admittedly a drawback of this design. However, if someone expresses disdain towards barrel saunas, consider whether they profit from selling more expensive alternatives.
It is important to note that not all barrel saunas are of equal quality. Unfortunately, there are more subpar barrel sauna kits on the market than there are good ones. These lower end options are prone to leakage and warping, which gives barrel saunas a bad reputation.
Despite this, we believe that barrel saunas, much like sauna tents, have made this therapeutic experience more accessible and affordable to a wider range of people. Our goal is to make sauna therapy attainable for as many people as possible, because we believe that a world with more people who have access to its benefits is a better world.
Of course, if you can afford an expensive, custom sauna, that’s fantastic and we can put you in touch with trusted local builders. However, barrel sauna kits also offer many incredible benefits and are a more wallet-friendly option. Most importantly, many owners have expressed absolute satisfaction with their barrel saunas.
MCP Sauna 4-Person Barrel Sauna
The A rating of this product signifies its high level of quality and performance.
The MCP barrel sauna is a masterful example of innovative design and construction. Crafted from sturdy Canadian pinewood, the sauna excels in insulation and is well-matched to its powerful 9-kilowatt electric heater. With ample space for up to four people, this 6-foot sauna is the ideal size for a small family. Additionally, a wide range of accessories such as a bucket, ladle, and thermometer come included to enhance your sauna experience.
Notable Features:
– Made from durable Canadian pinewood
– Equipped with an electric heater and lava rocks
– Comes with a glass door and wooden supports
Specifications:
– Item weight: 700 pounds
– Heater power rating: 220 Volts, 990 Watts
Pros:
– Perfect for accommodating a small group of people
Cons:
– Assembling the sauna can be difficult due to inaccurate instructions.
Aleko Outdoor Rustic Cedar
The Aleko outdoor sauna has made the cut due to its ability to comfortably fit eight people both indoors and outdoors, making it an affordable and energy-efficient option. Constructed with Western Canadian Red Cedar, tempered glass, and stainless steel, the sauna comes with an 8kW electric heater from high-end Finnish brand Harvia. Unlike other sauna kits, this one includes all necessary components and accessories, such as the heater, bucket, ladle, and thermometer. Although the interior lacks windows, the sauna heats up quickly thanks to its space-efficient design. With free shipping or local pickup available at retailers like Home Depot, you could have your very own outdoor wood sauna in less than a week.
Sanctuary Outdoor 2 by Clearlight
Constructed with a sturdy yet lightweight frame and a waterproof cover, this versatile sauna is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s no surprise that it’s the second-most popular sauna among our Yardzen clients, as it has been included in over 26 landscape designs this year.
Equipped with advanced infrared heaters, the sauna helps increase circulation, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate joint pain during and after use. The contemporary design of the sauna, with its Cedartec® Eco-Certified Exterior siding and boxy shape, is guaranteed to look sleek and modern in any outdoor space. Additionally, the mahogany interior is reminiscent of a traditional cedar sauna.
The sauna features a built-in chromotherapy lighting system that uses different colors to promote relaxation and soothe the body. With a wide range of colors to choose from, you can customize your sauna experience to suit your mood or specific health concerns. It’s even been known to help alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia, arthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Setting up and using this infrared sauna is a breeze, thanks to its convenient remote control that allows you to adjust settings such as lighting, temperature, and timer. Plus, the built-in speaker system lets you enjoy your favorite music while you sweat it out with a friend – the sauna comfortably accommodates two people.
Crafted with a combination of engineered wood and Canadian mahogany, this sauna is built to last. It also features thick double pane glass, EMF/ELF shielding that boasts the industry’s lowest levels, and well-insulated double wall tongue and groove walls that keep the heat in.
Xmatch Far Infrared Wooden Outdoor Sauna
This kiln-dried hemlock wood sauna is equipped with nine low-electromagnetic-field (EMF) heating plates that quickly warm the space in just 10 to 15 minutes. The LCD panel allows for easy temperature control, ranging from 68 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and the tempered glass door offers both insulation and visibility. The sauna boasts a tongue-and-groove design for effortless assembly, whether for indoor or outdoor use. With two Bluetooth speakers, users can enjoy music from their smartphones or tablets during their sauna session. However, this sauna may not be suitable for individuals taller than 6 feet 2 inches. Despite this, the sauna offers ample space for two bathers to use comfortably. Additional features include reading lamps and chromotherapy.
Dundalk Leisurecraft Canadian Timber Tranquility Barrel Sauna
Last but not least, a barrel sauna. An awesome barrel sauna. Made by Dundalk Leisurecraft, the Tranquility barrel sauna holds up to six people and comes with your choice of electric sauna heater or wood burning sauna stove. This is a classic barrel sauna that automatically circulates the hot air within the sauna, keeping the air consistently hot and humid.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Porch and Windows
- Holds up to six people
- Choose from electric sauna heater or wood burning sauna stove
How do I Buy and Install a Sauna?
When it comes to getting your own backyard or home sauna, you can choose between two options: a prefab sauna or a custom-made one. While a custom sauna provides more flexibility in terms of fitting into your desired space, prefab sauna kits are easier to install and come with professional designs and precise cuts.
Before purchasing an indoor or outdoor sauna, you need to consider the available usable space, the flooring or foundation, and electricity. Indoor saunas require a waterproof floor or foundation and enough space for the sauna and a door to swing open. Additionally, you need to take into account the electric hookup requirements for an electric stove.
If you’re considering buying an outdoor sauna kit, check your local regulations, building codes, or permit requirements. For an outdoor sauna, the primary concern is finding a safe and reliable source of power for the electric stove and lighting. It’s always good to consult the manufacturer for a comprehensive plan and installation information before making a purchase decision.
FAQs
Q: How much do outdoor saunas cost?
Outdoor saunas ran in price based on materials, size, and components. They range from around $3,000 to upwards of $12,000. You’ll also have to factor in installation (some saunas are DIY) and electrical assistance for higher-voltage units.
Q: Will I have to assemble my outdoor sauna?
Many modern outdoor saunas are “pre-fab” meaning they are pre-fabricated and ship in larger parts to go together quickly. Some outdoor home saunas have self-assembly, while others require installation. Check with each manufacturer for the complexity of installation before you purchase. Most manufacturers will recommend hiring a professional electrician to assist with the installation due to the high voltage requirements.
Q: Are outdoor saunas expensive to run?
Many outdoor saunas are designed to run extremely efficiently, ranging from 1kWh for small models to 6kWh for larger saunas. Depending on where you live, 1kWh of electricity can range in price from $0.10 to $0.34 per hour. Typically, sauna owners will not notice a change in their energy bills and will spend less than $1/hour to run their sauna.
Q: Can you use an outdoor sauna in the winter?
Winter is a great time to get warm, purifying benefits of an outdoor sauna. You can use any outdoor sauna in the winter, although barrel saunas and insulated saunas will have the highest performance in cold temperatures.
Q: How do I protect my outdoor sauna?
If you buy an outdoor sauna, it should be treated or designed to withstand the elements. Some saunas come with mildew- and UV-resistant coating, while others use naturally durable wood like cedar. If you do decide to treat the exterior, you can use wood stain with UV protection or a wood-penetrating oil to reduce the weathering of your outdoor sauna.
For the interior, do not use any chemicals or household treatments. Maintenance is minimal, but you should clean your sauna regularly to get rid of sweat or buildup. If you’re purchasing a barrel sauna, use the cradle supports to keep it suspended off the ground, reducing its exposure to moisture.
Q: Are infrared saunas better than traditional?
Both infrared and traditional saunas have their benefits.
Infrared saunas require lower operating temperatures because the heat penetrates your body directly rather than heating the air around you. It raises your core temperature much more effectively than a traditional sauna. Infrared saunas are great for people looking to maximize their health benefits without exposing themselves to very high temperatures or humidity.
Traditional saunas, on the other hand, use either dry heat or steam to warm the air in the sauna. They are more reminiscent of Finnish saunas and have a heating element, rocks, and water. Both dry and steam saunas can reach higher temperatures than infrared, so you can’t spend as long in the sauna as with an infrared. If you’re looking for shorter, yet intense steam or heat sessions, a traditional sauna is a better fit.
David Henry
Hello, everyone! I'm David Henry, a dedicated customer and enthusiastic reviewer of Tractor Supply Company. As a farmer and agriculture enthusiast, I frequently visit Tractor Supply Company to explore and purchase a wide range of agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment. Over the years, I have accumulated extensive experience and knowledge in shopping at Tractor Supply Company, and I aim to help others make wiser choices through my sharing. I understand the importance of selecting the right products for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. That's why I enjoy sharing my insights and recommendations to assist individuals in finding the best-suited products for their needs. Join me as we embark on a journey of discovering quality products and making informed decisions at Tractor Supply Company. Together, let's enhance our farming and outdoor experiences through valuable insights and practical advice.
