If you’re looking to level up your home wellness routine, few investments are as luxurious as a sauna. While traditional wood-burning saunas have been used for centuries, infrared saunas function at lower temperatures by using infrared light to provide direct heat to the body, providing potential health benefits such as reduced pain, improved immune function, and increased relaxation. (1)
Sun Home’s Luminar 5-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna is a great example of how to bring a luxury spa experience to your backyard. In this Sun Home sauna review, we’ll break down what sets the Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna apart from other infrared sauna models and give you all the details about how it performs.
This review is based on extensive evaluation criteria that put the Sun Home Luminar Sauna to the test. Our team of health and fitness experts assessed factors such as performance, cost, ease of use and assembly, and additional features. Read on to decide if this Sun Home outdoor infrared sauna is the right investment for you.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Key product features
What you should know
The Sun Home Luminar 5-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna excels in heat efficiency, ease of setup, and outdoor durability. Its stylish, high-tech design makes it a great investment for group relaxation and wellness at home.
- With 10 full-spectrum infrared and five far-infrared heaters with ultralow EMF emissions, this infrared sauna’s combination of effectiveness and safety is hard to beat.
- This sauna costs $11,199, which is more expensive than many similarly sized models but more affordable than many high-end saunas with similar specs, so you’re paying for a quality design without overspending.
- This is best for someone looking for a mid-size sauna that will heat them from every angle while giving them access to chromotherapy and nice tech features.
Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna overview
The Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna combines many of the most sought-after features for home outdoor saunas while keeping a mid-range cost. In terms of design, we love the look of this sauna. It combines some traditional sauna elements, like a cedar wood interior, with a modern edge, such as a black aerospace-grade aluminum exterior, medical-grade chromotherapy lighting, and built-in Bluetooth speakers. This gives it a new-age, high-tech feel while still being relatively easy to assemble and operate. Let’s dive into some of the specifics.
Infrared heat is known for its ability to penetrate the skin deeply at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, potentially offering more effective muscle recovery, improved circulation, and pain relief. (2) But for those looking for a really intense heat experience, you should know that this sauna maxes out at 170℉. While this is more than warm enough to enjoy the benefits of sauna therapy, die-hard sauna fans who use their sauna outdoors during the winter months may prefer a sauna that can reach even higher temperatures. (3)
That said, this model offers ample space, allowing multiple users to enjoy the experience simultaneously, which is ideal for families or those who prefer a more social experience. But our testers found that, while it advertises itself as a five-person sauna, even four average-sized adults at one time are pushing the comfort level. The double-pane glass windows promote tranquility (bonus if you have a beautiful backyard to stare out at) and help prevent you from feeling boxed in.
As for assembly, while it has a relatively simple set-up design, actually putting the sauna together will require several helpers and a good amount of time—more than a few hours. The parts are heavy and large, so you may need a few people to hold parts in place while another person does the screwing. Sun Home Saunas does recommend hiring a professional contractor to install their outdoor saunas.
If you’re wondering whether or not this sauna has what it takes to withstand the elements and the tests of time, we’re confident that it does. (4) Its weather-resistant aerospace-grade aluminum exterior and cedar interior ensures that it can withstand just about any weather, and the solid build and design help maintain a well-insulated interior space.
The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor Infrared Sauna is also offered in a smaller, two-person version.
Sun Home Saunas offers a 30-day return period and a one-year residential limited warranty for its outdoor saunas.
Sun Home Sauna benefits
As with all saunas, both traditional and infrared, there are many potential health benefits. Some of these sauna’s health benefits may include improved relaxation, reduced blood pressure, and reduced joint pain. (1)
Because the Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna uses infrared light to penetrate the skin at lower temperatures than a traditional sauna, it comes with some additional potential health benefits for those with poor heat tolerance, such as reduced systolic blood pressure and improved skin appearance and quality. (5, 6) Infrared sauna use may improve cardiovascular function by enhancing circulation, reducing blood pressure, and promoting better overall heart health. (7) One recent study even showed that regular infrared sauna use may improve sleep. (8)
This particular sauna model offers ample space, allowing up to five users to enjoy the benefits at once. The addition of chromotherapy lighting in the Sun Home Luminar sauna may even have mental health benefits, with a recent study suggesting chromotherapy lighting may help reduce anxiety. (9)
How to use the Sun Home Sauna
Using the Sun Home sauna is straightforward and user-friendly, even for first-timers. The Smart Control Center allows users to set the desired temperature and timer with ease. For optimal results, it’s recommended to preheat the sauna for 15-20 minutes before use. Sessions typically last 20-45 minutes, depending on personal preference and heat tolerance. Beginners should start with a lower temperature and shorter duration, and build their tolerance over time.
This model includes advanced features such as chromotherapy lighting and an integrated sound system, which can be controlled by an app on your smartphone. Simply set your desired temperature using the control panel or app, give it time to heat up, then step in and enjoy.
Sun Home Sauna side effects
Heat tolerance can vary from person to person. As with all saunas that create an atmosphere of high heat, the Sun Home sauna can come with unwanted side effects, such as dehydration, increased heart rate, muscle cramping, and fatigue. This is usually temporary, or easily mitigated by exiting the sauna and hydrating before use. For some, however, an adverse reaction can be due to either underlying medical conditions that affect the body’s temperature regulation, heat sensitivity, or a history of cardiovascular issues. (10) It’s also important to be cautious if you take any medication affecting your heat tolerance. It’s always best to check with your doctor about using a sauna before using one for the first time.
While infrared saunas are generally safe for most people when used correctly, individuals with certain medical conditions—such as hypotension, recent myocardial infarction (heart attack), unstable blood pressure, neurological conditions, and pregnancy—should also consult a healthcare professional before using one. (10) It’s also important to follow the Sun Home Saunas safety guidelines and limit session duration to avoid the risk of overheating or dehydration.
Sun Home Sauna cost
Home saunas come in a huge range of costs, from $1,000 to upwards of $15,000. This particular Sun Home infrared sauna costs $11,199, which puts it in the mid-high price range for outdoor infrared saunas. But we think it’s priced reasonably given its many special features and the addition of chromotherapy lighting.
While it offers good value for its size and features, there are models at a similar price point that come with additional technology and higher-grade wood finishes. However, if you’re looking for a solid build quality, infrared heat benefits, and ample space, this sauna is an excellent choice. It provides a balance between affordability and functionality without completely breaking the bank.
Sun Home Saunas also offers a smaller, two-person Luminar Outdoor Infrared Sauna for $9,899.
Specs
| Heaters | 10 full spectrum, 5 far infrared |
| Temperature range | 0-170℉ |
| Weight | 1,270 lbs |
| EMF/ELF shielding | Ultralow |
| Shipping cost | Free |
| Electric | 240V, 30A |
| Price | $11,199 |
We’ve featured Sun Home saunas in:
- Best infrared saunas, according to a doctor of physical therapy
- The best home saunas, tested by our experts
- Best outdoor saunas, according to a physical therapist
Who Sun Home Sauna is recommended for:
The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna is best for individuals or groups looking for an effective, two to five-person-sized sauna with ample indoor or backyard space and an interest in mood-matching chromotherapy lighting, high safety standards, and app-controlled tech features. It’s ideal for those who prefer outdoor setups with a view and weather-resistant designs that give the traditional sauna experience a modern twist.
Who Sun Home Sauna is not recommended for:
While beautiful, sauna purists might prefer a more traditional sauna model. With a price tag of over $10,000, the Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna is also not ideal for those on a tight budget. Cheaper models can be found, but they might not include some extra specs or have a quality build. This sauna is definitely a long-term investment that requires a budget for proper maintenance.
Compare Sun Home Sauna
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| Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna | Redwood Outdoors Cabin Sauna 4-Person | Sunlighten Portable Infrared Sauna | SweatTent Outdoor Sauna | Plunge Sauna | |
| Rating | |||||
| Cost | $11,199 | $6,799 | $3,199 | $1,599 | $11,990 |
| Sauna type | Infrared | Traditional | Infrared (dome + pad) | Tent | Traditional |
| Dimensions | 51.5” L x 82” W x 82.5” H | 78 ¾” L x 59” W x 96 ¾” H | Dome: 69″ L x 28″ W x 18″ H SoloPad: 69″ L x 23.6″ W x 4″ H | 72” L x 72” W x 84” H | 71” L x 68” W x 95” H |
| Max temperature | 170℉ | 190℉ | 150℉ | 200℉ | 230℉ |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 5 |
How we test recovery products
Recovery is essential, not just for athletes but for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether through heat therapy in a sauna or cold therapy in a cold plunge tub, these methods can significantly enhance your recovery process. Choosing the right recovery products involves considering a range of factors to ensure they meet your specific needs.
Our process is comprehensive, combining physical product testing with expert input to assess everything from effectiveness and ease of use to durability and safety standards.
Whether you’re seeking the intense heat of a sauna to relax your muscles or the invigorating chill of a cold plunge tub for inflammation reduction, we’re here to guide you. After all, effective recovery tools can make a significant difference in longevity, health, and overall wellness.
You can read our full recovery product testing methodology here.
Testing criteria
Performance (recovery effectiveness)—30%
A high-quality recovery product should deliver on its promise of aiding your recovery process. Performance encompasses various critical aspects, including the ability of saunas to reach and maintain desired temperatures for heat therapy and the capacity of cold plunge tubs to accurately regulate water temperature for effective cold therapy. Our testers assess various factors to reflect the functional aspects of the product as well as the user’s recovery experience.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Temperature range
- Temperature stability
- Ease of use
- Durability and material quality
- Power demand
Design and safety—30%
Alongside effectiveness, design is paramount for a positive recovery experience. It factors in how these therapies support and enhance the user’s overall well-being, whether sitting in a sauna or immersed in a cold plunge tub. The health and safety aspects are also critical, especially for products used in close contact with the body or for therapeutic purposes like saunas and cold plunge tubs. This category scrutinizes the measures and features implemented by manufacturers to protect users from potential hazards while also assessing the health-promoting aspects of the products. We evaluate:
- Size
- Accessibility features
- Material safety
- Certifications
- Safety features
Value—20%
This category delves into the intersection of quality, performance, durability, and the financial investment required to identify products that offer significant health and wellness returns without the financial burden. This offers a holistic view of the product’s worth by balancing the initial investment against the quality, benefits, and ongoing costs associated with its use. This approach helps consumers make informed decisions, identify products that meet their recovery needs, and represent a wise and sustainable financial investment.
Customer experience—20%
The overall purchasing and ownership experience can significantly impact satisfaction with a recovery product. This category focuses on consumers’ journeys, from initial interest to post-purchase support. The assessment goes beyond the physical attributes and considers the entirety of the process, including shipping, customer support, assembly, and more.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Shipping
- Assembly
- Warranty
- Customer support
FAQs
How hot do Sun Home Saunas get?
While traditional saunas can heat up to 200℉, the Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna heats up to a maximum of 170℉. Because infrared heat penetrates the skin directly, Sun Home infrared saunas can operate at a lower temperature than traditional steam saunas to produce an intense sweat effect. (1)
Is the Sun Home Sauna worth it?
Choosing a sauna is a personal decision based on many different factors. That said, the Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna—while a little pricey—is likely worth it for anyone looking to invest in an outdoor infrared sauna that is safe, beautiful, and effective. We recommend testing out multiple saunas before purchasing this one to be sure that it’s the right investment for you.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Anju Goel, M.D., MPH
Anju Goel, M.D., MPH, is a public health consultant and physician in California with a focus on communicable diseases, health policy, health promotion, and disaster preparedness. She’s also a consultant for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the COVID-19 response. Dr. Goel received her medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine and her Master of Public Health from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She’s board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Rachel Tavel, PT, DPT, CSCS
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Rachel Tavel is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (National Strength and Conditioning Association), Forbes Health Advisory Board Member and writer. She earned her BA from Bowdoin College and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York University.
References
- Massachusetts General Hospital. Infrared Saunas and Cold Plunges: Is Everything Old New Again? Accessed on October 11, 2024.
- Ahokas EK, Ihalainen JK, Hanstock HG, Savolainen E, Kyröläinen H. A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biol Sport. 2023 Jul;40(3):681-689. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.119289.
- Podstawski R, Borysławski K, Józefacka NM, Snarska J, Hinca B, Biernat E, Podstawska A. The influence of extreme thermal stress on the physiological and psychological characteristics of young women who sporadically use the sauna: practical implications for the safe use of the sauna. Front Public Health. 2024 Jan 26;11:1303804. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1303804
- Czerwinski F. Thermal Stability of Aluminum Alloys. Materials (Basel). 2020 Aug 4;13(15):3441. doi: 10.3390/ma13153441
- Beever R. (2009). Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors: summary of published evidence. Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 55(7), 691–696. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2718593/
- Kang, M.H., Yu, H.Y., Kim, GT. et al. Near-infrared-emitting nanoparticles activate collagen synthesis via TGFβ signaling. Sci Rep 10, 13309 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-70415-1
- Henderson KN, Killen LG, O’Neal EK, Waldman HS. The Cardiometabolic Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure in Individuals with High-Stress Occupations. A Mechanistic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Jan 27;18(3):1105. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18031105
- Kim H, Choi W, Lee S, et al. Cardiovascular and Thermoregulatory Responses to Infrared and Conventional Sauna Bathing. Maturitas. 2019;125:21-26. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.04.008
- Saklecha P, Kishan KV, Savaliya K. Effect of chromotherapy on the anxiety level in the patients undergoing endodontic treatment: A randomized clinical study. J Conserv Dent. 2022 Jul-Aug;25(4):398-402. doi: 10.4103/jcd.jcd_381_21
- Patrick RP, Johnson TL. Sauna use as a lifestyle practice to extend healthspan. Exp Gerontol . 2021;154:111509. doi:10.1016/j.exger.2021.111509