Barrel Sauna Temperature Options
An outdoor barrel sauna provides a unique way for people to relax and enjoy some downtime in the comfort of their garden or backyard. These saunas come in varied sizes and heat up quickly and efficiently. Additionally, barrel saunas do not require insulation to increase heat.
People have different preferences for sauna temperatures. While some like to keep it at a low heat (around 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit), most people prefer to keep the temperatures between 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit. Ultimately, the right sauna temperature depends entirely on individual preferences.
The United States has set regulations to keep the heat to 194 degrees Fahrenheit. The Finnish Sauna Society recommends that traditional saunas have a temperature between 176 and 194 F, with a 212F maximum reading. Consult the manufacturer’s manual for guidelines.
Barrel sauna heating options
Both electric and wood-burning heaters can heat up to a maximum of 195F. However, the type of heater, wood, and stones affects the sauna’s ability to create and retain heat. Here are the two heat sources a barrel sauna can use:
Electric heater
An electric heater heats the sauna quickly and can even be pre-programmed. It is convenient to use and has a safety feature that resets it automatically after an hour. However, using an electric heater can raise the utility bills.
Wood-burning heater
Wood burning-heaters cost less than electric heaters. They give an authentic spa feel and eliminate the hassle of laying electric wiring. On the downside, they require a chimney, take more time in heating the room, and make it harder to control temperatures.
When choosing wood to fuel the heater, pick the one easily accessible, clean, and seasoned. Avoid wood that is painted, stained, freshly cut, or has broken knots.
It is essential to size the barrel sauna heater properly to ensure proper heating. A small heater will take longer to warm the room, and a big one will heat the sauna too quickly. Consider opting for an inside feed instead of an outer feed for a better heating experience. Choose stones designed explicitly for the sauna heater to ensure it functions correctly and retains heat.
How to improve barrel sauna temperature?
If the heater fails to reach the desired temperatures, here are a few ways to add a few extra degrees for a better sauna experience.
Inside the sauna
Close the vents when beginning the session and open them if it starts to feel too hot and stuffy.
Install the heater, keeping its bottom about 5 to 7 inches high from the ground.
Place the temperature sensor 18 inches above and 18 inches to the heater’s side.
Avoid overfilling the heater with stones.
Set up a small fan to disperse the hot air.
Evenly sprinkle water on the sauna stones to add humidity.
Outside the sauna
As mentioned, barrel saunas do not require insulation. However, adding insulation outside the sauna improves the effectiveness and prevents hot air from escaping and cold air from entering the barrel sauna, especially in colder climates.
Cover the barrel sauna using a rain jacket, roof shingles, corrugated metal roof, or a tarp cover.
Check the door, window, wooden staves, and other areas for gaps and leaks. Ensure that the areas are tightly sealed.
Do not forget to hydrate properly before raising the sauna temperature. Contact a barrel sauna company for more information.
