14
TREATING THE SAUNA
Western Canadian Red Cedar is naturally resistant to the elements and will retain its natural col-
or when not in direct sunlight. If you wish to stain your sauna, your local paint store can rec-
ommend a stain for Red Cedar. A stain with a UV inhibitor will retain the full natural color of
the cedar and is recommended if the sauna will be exposed to sunlight, say, when located by a
window or slider door. Be sure to follow the directions from the stain manufacturer for applica-
tion instructions. Never treat the inside of the sauna, and never use varnish or paint on the exte-
rior of the sauna.
OPERATION
After the sauna has been installed, sweep down the inside to remove any sawdust and wood
shavings, and then vacuum completely. Using a damp cloth and warm water, wipe down the
entire sauna including the benches to remove any remaining dirt, dust and debris. Rinse off the
sauna rocks and install them in or on the heater in accordance with the heater manufacturer’s
instructions. Improper placement of heater rocks can result in lower than desired heat tempera-
tures. The first time you turn the heater on, set it to the maximum setting and operate it for
about 30 minutes with the door propped open. Then close the door and allow your sauna to
come up to the desired temperature.
Since you most likely will use your sauna as both a "wet sauna" and a "dry sauna", you should
install the sauna rocks that have been included with the heater, following the manufacturers
instructions. These stones are necessary if water will be sprinkled on the heater to create the
"wet sauna", and they will produce more consistent heating in the dry mode (without the use of
water). It is common for a stone to occasionally crack during initial heating. If excess amounts
of water are used during sauna, prop door open to let the humidity escape. Not much water is
necessary to achieve a “wet sauna”.
The amount of ventilation in the sauna can be adjusted by means of the vent located toward the
top of the sauna. It is important to have adequate fresh air flowing through the sauna, and this
flow can be adjusted with the movable vent cover.
