A “spa day” doesn’t need to be a far-off treat, anymore. The best home saunas can be excellent additions to your space, bringing the wellness benefits of improved rest, relaxation, and recovery to your doorstep. (1)(2) “Home saunas can also help you detox through increased sweating, influencing your breathing efficiency and potentially improving your muscle recovery and cognitive function,” adds Dr. R. Michelle Koolaee, DO, FACP. For those that want to get their athletic posse in on the sweat-induced perks of home saunas, the Sun Home Luminar 5-person outdoor sauna can be a worthwhile consideration.
In our opinion, the Sun Home Luminar silhouette can be a great investment for your training space, thanks to its roster of high-intensity full spectrum heaters and outdoor-ready construction. However, the price is high for such a luxe sauna, and those not trying to sweat with othersmay prefera smaller profile. In this Sun Home Luminar review, we’ll explore every nook and cranny of this infrared sauna option and examine its real-world qualities based on protocols set forth in our equipment testing methodology. Ready to turn up the heat on your recovery routine? Let’s get into our findings.
This at-home infrared sauna can fit up to five people comfortably, convenient for multi-athlete homes or families. You can also control this unit right from your smart phone.
Main Takeaways
- The omni-season exterior and pitched roof mean this infrared sauna can efficiently withstand the rigors of seasonal weather without excessive wear and tear.
- Despite the high price tag, Sun Home only offers a one-year limited warranty with this outdoor-ready sauna with extended coverage available for purchase.
- According to our tester, the curved ergonomics of the bench seating can make it difficult to lie prone during your sauna experience — it may be best to sit upright for optimal comfort.
Sun Home Luminar Specs
| Price | $14,599 |
| Product Dimensions | 51.5” L x 82” W x 82.5” H |
| Product Weight | 1,270lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Max Temperature | 170º F |
| Additional Features | 10 full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, LED accent lighting, mobile app settings control, Bluetooth surround sound system, aerospace-grade aluminum exterior, pitched stainless steel roof |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
As one of four outdoor-rated silhouettes offered by Sun Home Saunas, the Luminar carries a footprint of 51.5 inches deep by 82 inches wide (29.33 square feet) and can accommodate up to five people. Sun Home does offer a smaller, two-person Luminar, but for the sake of this review, we’ve focused on the larger five-person unit. “I’ll also point out that while dimensions are rated for five people, in reality, I’d suggest keeping capacity to four people,” states our expert tester, a certified personal trainer. “Can you fit five athletes inside? Yes. Is it going to facilitate a relaxing, comfortable sauna experience? Likely, no.”
What separates the Sun Home Luminar from other samples of the best infrared saunas is its outdoor-rated exterior that can withstand seasonal weather. The aerospace-grade aluminum siding, cedar wood framing, and thermally-efficient Luminar glass can stand up to regular wear and tear without compromise or damage. We also appreciate the pitched roof that allows for rain to roll off without adding excessive load to the frame.
In terms of the heating elements, this Sun Home Luminar sauna uses 10 full spectrum infrared heaters to generate internal temperatures up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead of heating the interior space via steam and humidity — what you’d experience with a traditional sauna — this thermotherapy discipline can be more efficient since the infrared waves heat the body directly, requiring less energy to achieve similar benefits. We also appreciate that Sun Home uses full spectrum infrared heating elements, which indicates that you’re exposed to all three wavelength types — near, mid, and far — during a session for optimal benefits including muscle recovery, improved blood flow, heart health, skin rejuvenation, and more. (2)(3)(4)(5)
Aside from the infrared sauna benefits, the Luminar is capable of other recovery modalities thanks to its included add-ons. The chromotherapy LED lighting, in particular, can be helpful for mental well-being, according to studies. (6) You also have LED accent lighting along with a Bluetooth-capable surround sound system, great for setting the mood for your next sweat session.
Another excellent feature of this outdoor 5-person full-spectrum infrared sauna is its digital controls through the compatible app. Rather than toggling your temperature, light, and sound settings on the internal control panel, you can simply operate your control system directly through your phone. This can be plenty convenient for those that need to walk a small distance from their back door to their sauna — think of it as a remote start for your recovery protocols. “I could really see myself taking advantage of the Bluetooth control settings during winter months,” adds our tester.
As impressive as these features are, though, they do come at a cost. The Sune Home Luminar outdoor sauna has a listed MSRP of roughly $14,599, making it one of the most expensive profiles in the category. For reference, the average infrared sauna costs roughly $4,150, although this Sun Home unit does have the capability of indoor and outdoor use.
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
“Saunas, like the best cold plunges, can be nice-to-have items, but they aren’t a must-own for every athlete looking to invest in their recovery,” states Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS. While we don’t doubt that the Sun Home Luminar’s heating technology, chromotherapy features, and Bluetooth connectivity could enhance your post-workout experience, we do realize that the price tag, footprint, and electrical requirements do limit its functionality within certain spaces. Below are a few groups we feel could benefit from adding this Sun Home sauna to their arsenal, as well as a handful of camps that may fare better with a different recovery tool.
Recommended for:
- Individuals wanting a one of the best outdoor saunas with weather-rated siding that can withstand the elements
- Athletes prioritizing multiple recovery modalities such as thermotherapy, red light therapy, and chromotherapy
- At-home sauna enthusiasts looking for a spacious interior that can accommodate multiple people at once
Not Recommended for:
- Athletes with limited outdoor space or limited accommodations for the Luminar’s 29.33-square-foot footprint
- Budget-conscious individuals not willing to invest in a near-$15,000 recovery item
- Those wanting a more portable sauna experience such as those offering through a pop-up profile or infrared sauna blanket
Our Experience Training With the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
The BarBend team is made up of certified personal trainers, competitive athletes, nutrition coaches, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. Over the years, we’ve been able to test and examine over 12 home saunas, including the Sun Home Luminar. To offer expert-derived analysis for these products, we utilize our equipment testing methodology to guide our examinations, focusing on a range of factors relative to the gear in question. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, has used this particular Luminar silhouette — amongst others in the Sun Home sauna lineup — for multiple sweat sessions, rating the unit on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in key categories including dimensions, included features, conveniences, performance, value, and more. Here’s what we found.
Outdoor-Ready Construction
You wouldn’t select one of the best squat racks if it couldn’t support weights over just a few hundred pounds, right? Similarly, your infrared sauna should be durable enough to withstand regular use without compromising safety and performance, especially when that sauna profile will spend a majority of its lifespan outdoors. Thankfully, our tester says the Sun Home Luminar is rugged enough for a range of weather conditions without any signs of use and abuse.
“I really appreciate the sloped roof that allows for rain, debris, and snowfall to slide off without accumulating overhead,” they note in reference to their 4.5-out-of-5 durability rating. “The brand’s omni-season exterior also shows no weak points, and I wouldn’t hesitate to test this in the elements.”
In addition to the weatherized aluminum siding, the Sun Home Luminar’s internal framing is built for the long haul with carbonized cedar wood for better rigidity and toughness. A double-pane glass front also helps ensure that internal temperatures will remain steady throughout your session without any escaping degrees. “It’s also a nice view for when you’re in the middle of a sweat session,” our tester notes. “I’ve caught myself getting lost in watching birds and little critters scurry through my lawn mid-treatment.”
Rapid Temperature Reach
A well-built sauna can be rendered useless if it fails to reach temperature in an efficient manner. Thankfully, our tester had no issues with the Sun Home Luminar, as the high-quality full spectrum and FIR heaters were quick to satisfy at the selected range. “In total, I think it took roughly 10 minutes for the temperatures to rise completely,” they note in reference to their 5-out-of-5 performance rating. “This can help keep your recovery sessions effective and efficient without having to wait around for sweat to begin pooling.”
We also appreciate this rapid heating procedure that pairs perfectly to the Bluetooth-capable control systems. You can toggle your sauna sessions to your desired temperature, gather your belongings like your best water bottle and a comfy towel, trek over to your outdoor sauna, and quickly get to sweating without waiting around for your unit to reach temperature.
Fun, Convenient Features
While the infrared technology and durable construction of the Sun Home Luminar do make for a high-quality hot box, the additional features and recovery components can really elevate your sauna sessions. “I’m a big fan of the accent LED lighting and built-in speakers,” says our tester, who rates the add-ons and features at 5 out of 5. “You can adjust your ambient lighting to create a relaxing environment, and the Bluetooth surround sound can be tailored to a soothing scape for breathing performance or a jam-filled listen-along to your favorite artists and tracks.”
While toggling the lights and soundscapes can be great for setting the perfect mood, the Sun Home Luminar is also equipped with medical-grade chromotherapy LED lighting. These LEDs consist of specific colors and wavelengths to influence physical and emotional well-being. Studies suggest that practicing chromotherapy can yield positive improvements in stress management and anxiety reduction, among other perks. (6)
What to Consider Before Buying the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
Like the best functional trainers, power racks, and cold plunge tubs, home saunas are a bit of an investment. Accordingly, it can be wise to think through your purchase prior to finalizing your online cart. Below, we’ve outlined a few key factors worth considering prior to checkout, whether you’re interested in the Sun Home Luminar or another sweat-inducing unit.
- Available Space: “One of the first things I tell budding sauna enthusiasts is to measure their available space,” notes Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS. “Having these confirmed dimensions can help you fine-tune your search for a sauna that’s usable in your personal abode.”
- Indoor or Outdoor Use: Capritto adds that you should also consider where you’d like your sauna to live — indoors or outdoors. If you plan on having an exterior sauna, be sure to look for a unit with durable siding and other components that can withstand the occasional rain, wind, or snowstorm. “If you plan to set your sauna on a deck or patio, it’s also wise to ensure you choose a unit that’s rated for such,” Capritto notes.
- Wavelength Type: If you’re looking at an infrared sauna, such as the Sun Home Luminar, you’ll also need to be mindful of the infrared wavelengths used for creating the warm interior space. Far-infrared wavelengths will provide the deepest penetration for the most powerful benefits, while near-infrared beams can be ideal for skin vitality. (4)(5) Full spectrum infrared lighting — a popular option amongst high-quality infrared saunas — combines all available infrared wavelengths for a variety of benefits such as improved circulation, muscle recovery, cardiorespiratory improvements, and more. (3)
- Added Features: Home saunas can come with add-ons like ambient or chromotherapy lighting systems, Bluetooth-connected settings adjustments, surround sound speakers, and more. While these features can be nice conveniences and elevate your at-home sauna sessions, they can influence the price. Think about your needs and wants and look for a sauna profile that caters to your preferences.
- Price: “Even reasonably-priced saunas can be expensive,” states Capritto, “So price should always be top of mind when searching for your ideal unit.” Crunch some numbers and ensure you can comfortably afford your chosen home sauna. We also recommend looking at the required voltage for your sauna — while 120-volt units can be plugged into a standard household outlet, those requiring 240 volts (like the Sun Home Luminar) may require the hiring of a professional electrician.
Sun Home Luminar Vs. Competitors
Given their rising popularity, it’s no surprise that Sun Home is not the lone sauna brand on the market. Having options to choose from can be great for ensuring you’re fitted with the perfect unit for your needs, but diving through details and specs sheets can be challenging (and time consuming) if you aren’t aware of what to look for. To make things easier, we’ve charted the key specs for two high-quality competitors to the Sun Home Luminar — the Sun Home Equinox and Sunlighten Amplify II — to give you a better illustration of how these units compare to one another. Read below and determine which build has all the right dimensions, temperature ranges, and add-on features for your personal checklist.
| Sun Home Luminar | Sun Home Equinox | Sunlighten Amplify II | |
| Price | $14,599 | $6,699 | Starting at $6,799 |
| Product Dimensions | 51.5” L x 82” W x 82.5” H | 45.9” L x 50.9” W x 77.7” H | 45.9” L x 50.9” W x 77.7” H |
| Product Weight | 1,270lbs | 520lbs | Up to 541lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 2 | 2 |
| Max Temperature | 170º F | 165º F | 165º F |
| Additional Features | 10 full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, LED accent lighting, mobile app settings control, Bluetooth surround sound system, aerospace-grade aluminum exterior, pitched stainless steel roof | Magnetic locking assembly system, 4 far infrared heaters, 2 full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, Bluetooth surround system | 4 SoloCarbon far infrared heaters, 2 full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy lighting, magnetic locking assembly system, basswood or eucalyptus construction, premium sound system |
| Warranty | 1-year limited | 7-year cabinetry and heaters, 3-year controls | 7-year cabinetry and heaters, 3-year controls, 1-year glass doors and audio |
Ordering and Assembling Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
Ordering the Sun Home Luminar is as simple as any online transaction. The unit is shipped in two large parcels, and Sun Home recommends measuring any doorways or pathways prior to purchase in an effort to make delivery as efficient and seamless as possible — similar to purchasing one of the best treadmills and game-planning to ensure it gets transported easily to your room of choice.
In terms of assembling this massive outdoor sauna, our tester, a certified personal trainer, says this is quite the tall task. “These components are quite heavy and you will likely need some assistance during the build,” they said, scoring the assembly process at a modest 3 out of 5. “I also recommend trying to be home when your sauna arrives, either to help your delivery driver or simply thank them for their effort. The sheer size of the cartons does mean that unloading the sauna from the truck can be a challenge in itself, especially if your driver doesn’t have the proper equipment or your area is limited on space.”
Places to Buy the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna is available online directly from the brand’s retail page with a listed MSRP of $14,999. If you’re looking for a lower cost, we’ve found some Sun Home Saunas discount codes that may be able to help you catch a deal.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
As a brand, Sun Home crafts some of the best home thermotherapy devices on the market, including popular saunas and cold plunge tubs — we’ve previously trialed the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro and feel it’s an exquisite example from the category. To reach the brand with any inquiries, call 1-855-936-6338 or email info@sunhomesaunas.com. The brand also offers a ‘Live Chat’ feature online for any quick questions regarding orders or equipment.
When it comes to customer reviews, the Sun Home Luminar is well-received online with a 5-out-of-5-star rating based on 23 customer responses. “I use it almost every day and find great satisfaction from it,” states one positive customer review. “It’s beautiful and very effective.”
Warranties
As expensive as the Sun Home Luminar is upfront, we are somewhat disappointed in the warranty package included with this purchase. Sun Home only protects the Luminar for 1 year with the service covering the carbon heaters, the cabin, controller, full-spectrum heater, oxygen bar, color light and light strip. However, you can purchase extended warranty packages for protection against defects that arise after 1 year of service as well as failures that pop up after regular wear and tear. Sun Home offers 3-year ($633.99), 5-year ($1,056.99), and 7-year ($1,585.99) warranty bundles that can be added to your cart prior to checkout.
Final Thoughts on the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
If you’re in the market for a spacious, tech-heavy outdoor sauna, the Sun Home Luminar should definitely be on your radar. We appreciate the durable omni-season exterior that’s sure to withstand the rigors of inclement weather, and the interior infrared heaters work efficiently to reach your desired temperature as you take advantage of the other included conveniences like chromotherapy lighting, a Bluetooth sound system, and more. However, the five-person capacity (and the expensive price tag) may be less ideal for certain athletes and spaces, so be sure to get measurements and look through your finances before adding this impressive unit to your online cart.
When looking for an infrared sauna, be sure to focus on profiles that can fit comfortably within your space, as well as units utilizing far-infrared or full spectrum infrared wavelengths in order to facilitate the benefits of the discipline. (3)(4)(5) You can also find Bluetooth-capable units that can be controlled through your phone for less waiting around inside as the space reaches temperature. Remember, there’s no need to sweat through a grueling purchasing process — narrow down your wants and needs, stick to your budget, and you can soon be relaxing and recovering in the lap of luxury.
Sun Home Luminar FAQs
How much does the Sun Home Luminar cost?
The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna has a listed MSRP of $14,599. The brand does offer a two-person model, as well, for $6,699.
How hot does the Sun Home Luminar home sauna get?
The Sun Home Luminar can reach a maximum temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long should I use an infrared sauna?
How long you should stay in a sauna can depend on a variety of factors, including your cardiovascular health, hydration levels, and tolerance to hot, humid conditions. Studies suggest, though, that 5- to 20-minute sweat sessions can yield the positive benefits of saunas, with shorter durations recommended for novice users. (7)
What are the benefits of infrared saunas?
Infrared saunas can be beneficial for a range of athletes with perks related to improved muscle recovery, skin vitality, circulation, heart health, and more. (2)(3) As Dr. R. Michelle Koolaee, DO, FACP states, though, it’s best to speak to your personal healthcare provider before signing up for regular sweat sessions. “The heated environment can place more stress on cardiovascular systems and does lead to a more dehydrated state. Make sure your body can handle the conditions prior to use,” she notes.
References
- Chang, M., Ibaraki, T., Naruse, Y., & Imamura, Y. (2023). A study on neural changes induced by sauna bathing: Neural basis of the “Totonou” State. PLOS ONE, 18(11). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10681252/
- Ahokas, E. K., Ihalainen, J., Hanstock, H. G., Savolainen, E., & Kyröläinen, H. (2023). A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biology of Sport, 40(3), 681–689. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37398966/
- Tsai, S.-R., & Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 170, 197–207. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5505738/
- Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014). A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(2), 93–100. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/
- Shui, S., Wang, X., Chiang, J. Y., & Zheng, L. (2015). Retracted: Far-infrared therapy for cardiovascular, autoimmune, and other chronic health problems: A systematic review. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 240(10), 1257–1265. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4935255/
- Kishan, K., Saklecha, P., & Savaliya, K. (2022). Effect of chromotherapy on the anxiety level in the patients undergoing endodontic treatment: A randomized clinical study. Journal of Conservative Dentistry, 25(4), 398. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36187850/
- Laukkanen, J. A., Laukkanen, T., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2018, August). Cardiovascular and other health benefits of Sauna Bathing: A review of the evidence – mayo clinic proceedings. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(18)30275-1/fulltext
