
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Locally made, delivered and installed in Calgary and area.
Ordering & Installation Enquiries
1. What is the lead time on an order?
BnB Barrels is committed to a two-week production timeline from deposit to delivery.
For more information on lead times, please contact our customer service team at [email protected].
2. What payment options are available?
A 15% deposit is required to place an order. Once your order is placed we will confirm your details and then invoice you for the remaining balance.
The remaining balance is due upon delivery and we accept Cash, Cheque, or Credit.
BnB Barrel Saunas also offers financing through Financeit.
3. Does BnB Barrels only offer barrel saunas?
Yes, currently BnB Barrels exclusively offers six sizes of barrel saunas.
4. What size sauna should I get?
BnB Barrels offers two-, four- and six-person saunas.
Choosing the right size sauna depends on several factors, including the available space, the number of users, and your personal preferences. Here are some considerations to help you determine the size of sauna that’s right for you:
- Available Space: Measure the area where you plan to install the sauna to determine the maximum dimensions you can accommodate. Consider both the footprint of the sauna unit and the clearance space required around it for ventilation and access.
- Number of Users: Think about how many people will be using the sauna at the same time. If you plan to use the sauna solo or with one other person, a smaller sauna may be sufficient. However, if you anticipate regular use by multiple people or want to accommodate guests, a larger sauna may be more suitable.
- Comfort: Consider how much space you prefer to have inside the sauna for comfortable movement and relaxation. A larger sauna provides more room to stretch out and lay down, while a smaller sauna may feel cozier and more intimate.
- Budget: Consider your budget and how much you are willing to invest in a sauna. Larger saunas come with a higher price tag, so be sure to factor in your budget constraints when choosing the size of the sauna.
Ultimately, the right size sauna for you will depend on a combination of these factors, as well as your individual preferences and priorities. It’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and preferences to choose a sauna size that will provide the most enjoyable and comfortable sauna experience for you and your household.
5. What site preparation is required for my sauna?
Barrel saunas offer the advantage of not needing a concrete foundation, allowing for versatile installation on various level surfaces.
For installations on grass, it is advisable to place pavers beneath the sauna feet to prevent settling into the ground over time.
Our saunas are set on either two or three (depending on sauna size) cradles, each 4ft wide, constructed with cedar wood.
6. Which sauna heater should I choose?
The right heater depends on your sauna size, electrical service, property setup and preferred experience.
Electric heaters offer convenient, consistent heat with temperature control and optional Wi-Fi operation. They are available in 8 kW or 9 kW options, include a one-year warranty and can be upgraded upon request. Installation requires properly sized electrical service completed by a qualified electrician.
Wood-burning heaters offer a slower, more hands-on experience. BnB Barrels uses Harvia wood stoves, known for their quality and efficiency. They require firewood, chimney installation and a 10-foot clearance radius.
When properly sized, electric and wood-burning heaters have comparable heat-up times. BnB Barrels can recommend the right option for each sauna.
7. What is required for the electric heater connection?
Our 6kw heater requires a 40 amp breaker and a 240v connection.
Our 8 or 9kw heater requires a 50 amp breaker and a 240v connection.
It is recommended that a spa pack be installed on the outside of the house with a disconnect breaker.
All electrical installations should be carried out by a certified electrician.
8. Is there a warranty?
Our standard sauna heaters come with a 1 year manufacturer warranty but Harvia and Huum both come with a 3 year manufacturers warranty.
9. Do I need a permit for my sauna?
In Calgary, structures under 107 sq/ft do not require a building permit, but it’s essential for customers to verify compliance with local laws and codes.
For saunas equipped with electric heaters, installation must be completed by a licensed electrician and an electrical permit is always required.
10. What materials are used to build the sauna?
We take pride in using locally sourced Western Red Cedar for crafting all our saunas. We use kiln dried Smooth Four Side knotty cedar to minimize splitting and warping.
In our seating areas, we exclusively use clear cedar that way there are no knots on the surface, offering a comfortable and enjoyable sauna experience.
Clear cedar’s natural beauty with no knots or defects also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the sauna interior.
11. Where are BnB Barrel’s built?
All of our saunas are built locally in Calgary, AB
12. Can you deliver and assemble all year round?
We frequently receive inquiries about winter deliveries for our saunas. In most cases, the answer is yes, depending on your location.
The designated area for the sauna to be installed in must be leveled, cleared of snow and have a clear path for access.
For electric saunas, coordination with your electrician regarding electrical routing is necessary. If trenching the cable is needed, it can typically be laid on the surface temporarily and then buried in the spring (please consult your electrician for confirmation).
13. Why the barrel shape?
- Optimal Heat Distribution: The curved shape of a barrel sauna allows for more efficient heat distribution compared to traditional square or rectangular saunas. The rounded walls help to evenly circulate heat throughout the sauna space, creating a more consistent and comfortable sauna experience.
- Natural Strength and Stability: The cylindrical shape of a barrel sauna provides natural strength and stability, allowing it to withstand external pressure and environmental elements more effectively. This makes barrel saunas durable and well-suited for outdoor use in various climates.
- Traditional Design: Barrel saunas have a long history and are inspired by traditional Scandinavian sauna designs. The classic barrel shape reflects the heritage and cultural significance of sauna bathing in regions such as Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
Overall, the barrel shape of a sauna offers a combination of functional benefits, aesthetic appeal, and cultural significance, making it a popular choice for outdoor sauna enthusiasts around the world.
14. How hot do the saunas get?
The temperature inside a sauna can vary depending on heating source and personal preference. However, traditional Finnish saunas typically operate at temperatures between 70°C (158°F) and 100°C (212°F). It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and adjust the temperature based on individual comfort levels and health considerations.
15. Do the saunas work well in cold climates?
Yes. BnB Barrels saunas are built for year-round outdoor use in Canadian conditions, including Alberta winters. Each sauna is paired with an appropriately sized heater for dependable cold-weather performance. Heat-up time may be longer during colder temperatures.
16. Where does BnB Barrels deliver fully assembled saunas?
BnB Barrels offers fully assembled delivery within approximately four to six hours of Calgary, covering much of Alberta and select locations in British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Delivery and assembly are free in Calgary and Edmonton. Availability depends on the exact location and site access. Customers outside the assembled-delivery area can order a DIY sauna kit shipped across Canada.
17. Does BnB Barrels sell DIY sauna kits?
Yes. BnB Barrels offers DIY kits. Each kit is prepared from premium Western Red Cedar and includes detailed assembly instructions. Building a sauna kit requires suitable tools, time and basic construction ability.
18. Does BnB Barrels ship sauna kits across Canada?
Yes. BnB Barrels ships DIY sauna kits Canada-wide. Shipping costs and timelines depend on the sauna model and destination. Contact us with your postal code for an accurate shipping quote.
19. What makes BnB Barrels different from other Canadian sauna companies?
BnB Barrels is a family-owned Calgary sauna builder offering handcrafted saunas made from premium Western Red Cedar. Customers can choose from multiple sizes, electric or wood-burning heaters, windows, lighting and other custom features.
BnB Barrels is committed to providing high-quality products and personal service at fair prices, with a two-week production timeline from deposit to delivery. Delivery and assembly are free in Calgary and Edmonton, fully assembled delivery is available within four to six hours of Calgary, and DIY sauna kits can be shipped across Canada.
Operation and Maintenance Enquiries
20. Can I pour water on the heater stones?
Yes, you can pour water on both our electric and wood-fire heaters. However because of this feature we highly recommend clients having their electrician install a spa pack on the outside of the house with a GFCI breaker as GFCI’s are generally installed where electrical circuits may accidentally come into contact with water.
21. How long does the sauna take to warm up?
The warming time for our saunas varies depending on outdoor temperatures, usually ranging from 20 to 30 minutes to reach the ideal sauna temperature.
22. Do I need to stain or seal my sauna?
Staining your cedar sauna is not necessary, as cedar is naturally resistant to decay and rot. However, some individuals may choose to apply a protective finish, such as a clear sealant or a UV-protective stain, to maintain the wood’s appearance and protect it from environmental elements over time.
Ultimately, whether or not to stain your cedar sauna is a personal preference.
23. What safety precautions should I take?
When using a barrel sauna, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some key safety precautions to keep in mind:
- 1. Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines provided in the sauna heaters manual before use.
- 2. Pre-Heating Check: Before entering the sauna, ensure that the sauna has been preheated to the desired temperature and that the thermometer indicates a safe level.
- 3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sauna sessions to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration.
- 4. Limit Session Time: Avoid prolonged sauna sessions and limit the duration to a recommended timeframe (typically 15-20 minutes) to prevent overheating and exhaustion.
- 5. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Avoid consuming alcohol or drugs before or during sauna sessions, as they can impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents.
- 6. Exit if Uncomfortable: If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or uncomfortable during a sauna session, exit the sauna immediately and cool down with cold water or fresh air.
- 7. Cool Down Period: Allow your body to cool down gradually after a sauna session by resting and hydrating before engaging in vigorous physical activity.
- 8. Check for Hazards: Regularly inspect the sauna for any hazards, such as loose or damaged components, and address them promptly to ensure a safe environment.
- 9. Medical Consultation: If you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns, consult with your healthcare provider before using the sauna to ensure it is safe for you.
By following these safety precautions and using common sense, you can enjoy the benefits of a barrel sauna while minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring a safe and relaxing experience.
