Maximizing Your Sauna Experience

Setup & Stove Information

At the bottom of this page, you will find several resources, including a video tutorial demonstrating the tent and stove setup, along with a recommended stove arrangement to maximize space and ensure safety. The stove should always be positioned out of the way from the tent entrance. However, you may adjust the layout as needed—you can skip the elbow pieces and direct the stove toward the back window if preferred.

Regardless of the configuration, it is essential to maintain clearance from the tent door for safety.

Using a Wood-Burning Sauna Stove

Fuel Selection

• Use seasoned wood that has dried for at least six months.
• Kiln-dried wood is recommended for its low moisture content and resistance to mold and pests.
• Use a fire starter to light your stove. Avoid using paper - especially large amounts - as it may not burn fully, allowing sparks to escape through the chimney and potentially cause small melt holes in your tent.

Fire Maintenance

• Check the fire every 15–20 minutes and add wood as necessary.
• Regularly empty the ashtray to ensure clean and efficient combustion.

Ventilation

• Keep the vent open for a hotter, more efficient fire.

New Stove? Stove Seasoning Process

The stove is fully seasoned when:

• The paint has fully cured.
• Any initial fumes or odors have dissipated.
• The surface no longer emits a noticeable smell during operation.

After outdoor seasoning, complete an additional seasoning inside the tent with all doors and vents open to ensure proper airflow and odor elimination.

Safety Guidelines

Ensuring safety is a priority. Follow these guidelines for a secure and enjoyable sauna experience.

General Safety Precautions

• Exercise caution when entering and exiting the tent.
• Assist children when using the sauna.
• Wear sturdy footwear to prevent slipping on wet or uneven surfaces.
• Ensure the tent door is secured in an open position when carrying equipment inside.
• Do not carry heavy loads into the tent while the stove is in use.

Maintaining Clear Pathways

• Keep pathways inside and around the tent free from tripping hazards.

Optimizing Your Sauna Experience

Adding Water to Sauna Stones

• Pour water onto the stones slowly to keep the heat efficient and avoid cooling the stove too quickly.
  
• Always pour away from your hand to prevent burns from rising steam.
  

Smoke Management

If smoke enters the tent, check for the following:

• Damper – Open it to improve airflow (be sure valve is flush with the pipe)
• Clogged spark arrester (rain cap on top of the chimney stack) – Clean it regularly to ensure proper ventilation. This is most likely the reason for the smoke.

Thank You for Choosing Thermaculture

We are committed to providing the best possible sauna experience. If you have any questions, require assistance, or would like to provide feedback, please feel free to reach out.

Warm regards,
The Thermaculture Team