FAQ
Answers to some of our most common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why the barrel shape?
The cylindrical shape of a barrel sauna makes for a great convection flow where the air naturally recirculates and there are no corners for air to get ’trapped’. In addition, barrel saunas look great and are structurally sound, even in harsh climates.
What are the dimensions of the sauna?
7′ high barrel x 7′ interior length + a 2′ covered porch.
How many people can a sauna hold?
Our saunas are designed to accommodate 6-8 people comfortably.
What is the sauna made out of?
Tonttus’ saunas are made of top quality, 100% natural, 1 1/2″ solid clear cedar. All fasteners are high caliber stainless steel.
What else is included with the purchase of a sauna?
Everything. There are no upcharges. Your sauna will include the installation of the sauna, the 2′ covered porch with bench, as well a full top-of-the-line glass door, flat floor, full-length bench and your choice of an electric or wood burning heat source.
Where are Tonttu Saunas built?
All Nootka Saunas are fabricated in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. We believe in supporting the local economy and make every effort to support other local businesses when purchasing our cedar, glass, heaters, etc. This ensures better product support for customers, helps strengthen the local economy and speeds up manufacturing lead times.
Do I need to assemble the sauna myself?
- For those within 150 miles of Grand Rapids, there is no need to self-assemble! Our craftsmen will transport the sauna to your prepared location and assemble it on-site to make sure everything is ready for your use!
- For those beyond 150 miles of Grand Rapids, contact us for an installation quote or self assemble.
Do I need a permit?
Most jurisdictions allow for outbuildings under ~100 sq ft without a building permit. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that they are in alignment with all laws and codes in their area. Saunas with electric heaters, MUST be installed by a licensed electrician.
What heat supply will I receive?
You have your choice of a:
- Harvia Electric Heat Source (see below for requirements)
- Harvia Wood Burning Heat Source
How large is the heat supply?
- Electric – this unit is wall-mounted and will extend 18″ off the rear wall.
- Wood burning – this heater if floor-mounted and extend about 30″ from the rear wall of the sauna.
How long does it take the sauna to warm up?
Depending on the ambient temperature, it typically takes 10-20 minutes for our saunas to warm up.
How hot will the sauna get?
- Electric sauna heaters reach a maximum temperature of 195°F.
- Wood fired saunas can get slightly higher, depending on the type of wood being burned and the size of the fire.
If I choose electric, what will be required on site?
- All of our electric heaters are 240V.
- Our saunas use a 7.5kW heater, which needs a 40A breaker (non-GFI) and 8-2 Teck cable run to the back wall of the sauna. This wiring and the final connection of the sauna to your panel must be done by a certified electrician.
- Usually electrical hookup, is easier that customers think. Teck cable costs around $14/meter and is usually be buried in an 18” trench (local bylaws may vary). To save money on setup costs, several of our customers dig their own trenches and then have their electricians lay the electrical cable into the trench.
- Customers are recommended to have an electrician do a preliminary inspection (often free) of their electrical panel to ensure they have capacity on their service panel for the sauna. If you need a recommendation, please let us know.
Do I need to stain or seal my sauna?
This comes down to customer preference. Cedar has a natural resin in it that protects it from rotting so it is NOT essential to seal the sauna. That being said, UV and weather will fade the color of the wood. If you want to preserve the original color of your cedar then sealing the interior and exterior of the sauna is possible.
Do barrel saunas leak?
The staves of the sauna (boards that run from the back to front walls) are joined with a specialty joint that mimics a ball and socket connection. We use kiln-dried wood which swells after a couple rainstorms to create a very snug fit between boards. In addition, we use a special temperature safe and inert caulking material between staves, which minimizes any water ingress. Over time, we recommend tightening the bands around the sauna to ensure a snug, water-resistant fit between boards.
What safety precautions should I take?
- Part of the health benefit associated with saunas is that the temperature change increases your heart rate. You should consult your physician or other health care professional before using our saunas to determine if it is right for your needs. This is particularly true if you (or your family) have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, or if you have ever experienced chest pain when exercising or have experienced chest pain in the past month when not engaged in physical activity, smoke, have high cholesterol, are obese, or have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by using a sauna. Do not sauna if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while using the sauna you should stop immediately. Do not use the sauna under the influence or drugs or alcohol.
- In addition, customers should keep a fire extinguisher near the sauna and ensure that all combustible or flammable materials (towels, papers, etc.) are kept away from the heater or stove.
- Essential oils should NEVER be applied directly to the heater or rocks. Most essential oils are flammable and if used, should be mixed with water before ladling them on to the rocks. Every customer should familiarize themselves with the heater manufacturer’s recommended usage procedures.
The sauna heaters come with a 2-year warranty from Harvia. We don’t accept returns on our saunas, but we’re here to help with any questions you have or any support you need with your sauna.
Tonttu Sauna’s Privacy Policy can be viewed via the link here.
