The Thermory 8-person barrel sauna offers an exceptional social experience while providing authentic heat therapy benefits. With its spacious interior of 150-250 cubic feet, this sauna provides nearly 50% more room than other barrel models.
Thermory barrel saunas are designed for superior heat retention and even distribution, making them ideal for outdoor settings where you want efficient heating combined with rustic charm. The elegant barrel design also serves a practical purpose by helping the heat circulate evenly throughout the space, ensuring everyone enjoys the same therapeutic warmth.
Larger barrel saunas, like the Thermory 8-person model, are perfect for social gatherings and group relaxation. Some models even come with customization options like porches and Wi-Fi-enabled heaters. Whether hosting friends for a wellness weekend or creating a family retreat in your backyard, this sauna provides the perfect blend of functionality and social space.
Overview of the 8-Person Thermory Barrel Sauna
The 8-Person Thermory Barrel Sauna combines traditional Finnish sauna design with modern craftsmanship to create a spacious wellness retreat for your backyard. These premium saunas offer exceptional quality and ample room for social sauna experiences.
Design and Construction
Thermory barrel saunas feature a distinctive cylindrical shape that isn't just visually appealing but also highly functional, as the curved design allows for efficient heat circulation and natural water runoff during rain. These saunas are crafted from high-quality Nordic softwood that undergoes Thermory's special thermal modification process to enhance durability and resistance to moisture. The sauna also comes complete with proper insulation and ventilation systems to maintain optimal temperatures while ensuring energy efficiency during operation.
The top half of many models comes covered with bituminous shingles for additional weather protection. Unlike some competitor barrel saunas that may experience leakage issues, Thermory's construction techniques create a tight seal against air and water infiltration.
Dimensions and Space Requirements
The 8-person Thermory barrel sauna boasts an impressive interior volume of 150-250 cubic feet, providing nearly 50% more room than competing barrel saunas. This spacious design accommodates eight adults comfortably without feeling cramped.
These saunas generally stand about 7' tall at their highest point, and the typical exterior dimensions require approximately a 10' x 8' footprint, making it suitable for most backyard settings. Factor in additional clearance space around the sauna for safety and accessibility. When planning installation, you’ll need a level surface like a concrete pad, pavers, or a reinforced deck capable of supporting the sauna's weight.
Key Features and Benefits
Thermory barrel saunas blend rustic charm with modern European details to create a stunning wellness space. The generous interior accommodates multiple seating arrangements with benches at different heights for varied heat experiences.
Key benefits include:
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Authentic heat therapy that promotes relaxation and stress reduction
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Superior materials that resist decay, warping, and moisture damage
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Energy efficiency, thanks to the optimal barrel shape that requires less heating
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Quick assembly with DIY-friendly kits requiring minimal tools
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Year-round usability, regardless of outdoor weather conditions
The benches are thoughtfully positioned to maximize comfort during use. While some users note that the barrel shape places benches lower than traditional saunas, the overall heat experience remains excellent for genuine Finnish-style sauna sessions.
Installation and Setup
Setting up your 8-person Thermory barrel sauna requires proper planning and attention to detail. The process involves preparing a suitable foundation, following step-by-step assembly instructions, and ensuring proper electrical connections for safe operation.
Site Preparation
A level and stable foundation is crucial for your barrel sauna, ideally a concrete pad at least 4 inches thick that extends 6 inches beyond the sauna's footprint on all sides. The foundation must be completely level to prevent structural issues as the wood naturally expands and contracts. A slight slope (about 1°) can help with water drainage.
Allow at least 3 feet of clearance around the sauna for proper air circulation and maintenance access. This space also ensures compliance with most building codes. Also, before installation, check local regulations regarding outdoor structures and electrical installations to avoid potential compliance issues later.
Assembly Process
The Thermory barrel sauna kit comes with pre-cut and pre-milled staves, eliminating the need for cutting during assembly. This thoughtful design significantly reduces installation time and complexity. Assembly typically requires 2-3 people and takes about 6-8 hours. The kit includes a detailed step-by-step installation guide with clear illustrations. All hardware comes labeled and organized, making it easier to follow each stage of assembly.
Begin by positioning the rear panel, followed by installing the first few body staves to connect it to the front door panel. Use the provided 5.0 x 120 screws to secure side panels, with one person holding the door panel steady during this process. Continue adding body staves alternately on each side to maintain balance.
Electrical Requirements
The Thermory 8-person barrel sauna includes a Harvia electric heater that requires a dedicated 240V circuit. Hire a licensed electrician to handle the wiring, as electrical connections must comply with local codes and regulations. Plan the electrical installation before assembly begins. Running conduit under the foundation before pouring concrete can provide a clean, safe path for wiring to enter the sauna.
The circuit should be protected by a GFCI breaker appropriate for the heater's power requirements. Most 8-person models need a 40-50 amp circuit, but verify the specifications in your kit's manual. The control panel should be mounted at a convenient height inside the sauna, typically 3-4 feet from the floor.
Operation and Maintenance
Proper operation and maintenance of your Thermory barrel sauna ensures its longevity and optimal performance. Taking care of your sauna requires attention to the heating system, regular maintenance, and knowledge of how to address common issues.
Heating System and Controls
The 8-person Thermory barrel sauna typically comes equipped with a premium electric heater that includes Wi-Fi controls. This allows you to preheat your sauna remotely before use, optimizing your experience.
Wi-Fi Control Features:
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Temperature adjustment
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Timer settings (1-12 hours)
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Wi-Fi connectivity for remote operation
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Humidity control options
To operate the heater, first ensure the sauna is clear of flammable materials. Turn on the main power switch and set your desired temperature between 160-190°F (70-88°C). The sauna will take approximately 30-45 minutes to reach optimal temperature. Never cover the heater or place items on top of it, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for maximum runtime limitations to prevent overheating.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
Regular maintenance extends the life of your Thermory barrel sauna and keeps it functioning properly. We recommend establishing a consistent maintenance schedule.
Weekly Tasks:
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Wipe benches with a damp cloth after each use
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Sweep or vacuum the floor
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Empty and clean any water containers
Monthly Tasks:
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Clean the interior walls with mild soap and water
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Check heater stones and rearrange if needed
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Inspect door seals for proper function
Yearly Tasks:
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Treat exterior wood surfaces with appropriate preservative
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Inspect electrical connections and heating elements
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Clean and rearrange or replace sauna stones as needed
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Check for any loose boards or hardware
Never use harsh chemicals or pressure washers on your sauna, as these can damage the thermally modified wood and compromise its integrity.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even well-maintained saunas occasionally develop issues, but learning to identify and address these problems quickly will minimize downtime.
Heater Not Working:
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Check power supply and circuit breakers
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Verify timer and temperature settings
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Inspect heating elements for damage
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Contact a professional service if issues persist
Excessive Moisture Problems:
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Ensure proper ventilation during and after use
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Leave the door slightly open after sessions
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Check for leaks in the roof or walls
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Consider adding a ventilation fan if humidity remains high
Wood Issues:
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Minor cracking is normal due to heat fluctuations
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Apply appropriate wood treatment to exterior surfaces
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Replace any severely damaged boards promptly
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Tighten loose staves or hardware as needed
If you notice electrical burning smells or unusual noises, disconnect power immediately and contact a qualified technician.
Get in touch to discuss whether a Thermory Barrel Sauna is the best choice for your home.
