Tanning Booth Buying Guide for Your Salon

By Sun Tanning Store | Published: 2026-10-20

Category: Buying Guides

Learn what to consider before buying a tanning booth for your salon, including space, lamp power, ventilation, and key features like the ESB Galaxy 30.

Quick Answer

For most salons, a vertical tanning booth like the ESB Galaxy 30 offers a space-saving, efficient solution that attracts clients who prefer standing while tanning.

Space and Layout Considerations

Tanning booths take up less floor space than traditional horizontal beds, making them ideal for smaller salons or rooms with odd layouts. Measure your available area including clearance for the booth door to swing open and for clients to step in and out comfortably.

Vertical booths also eliminate the need for clients to lie down, which can speed up session turnover and reduce cleaning time between appointments.

Lamp Power and Session Times

Lamp wattage directly affects tanning speed and session duration. Higher-wattage lamps (e.g., 160W or above) deliver faster results but generate more heat and may require better ventilation. Lower-wattage lamps are gentler for fair skin but need longer sessions.

Check the lamp configuration: more lamps generally mean more even coverage. The ESB Galaxy 30 uses 30 lamps, providing a balanced combination of power and coverage for a commercial setting.

Ventilation and Cooling

Vertical booths produce significant heat, especially during back-to-back sessions. Built-in fans and exhaust systems help keep the unit cool and comfortable for clients. If your salon lacks strong HVAC, prioritize a booth with robust ventilation.

Some booths include automatic shutoff if internal temperatures exceed safe limits—a useful safety feature for busy salons.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Tanning Booth

Measure Your Space First: Clear at least 3 feet in front of the booth for the door swing and client entry. Account for ceiling height—most booths need 7 feet or more.
Match Lamp Power to Client Base: If your clients are mostly fair-skinned or new to tanning, choose a booth with lower-wattage lamps (100–120W). For experienced tanners, 160W lamps deliver faster results. Consider offering a mix of lamp options if your clientele varies widely.
Check Ventilation Capacity: Look for booths with at least two exhaust fans or an integrated cooling system. Test the airflow in your salon to ensure the booth won't overheat during peak hours. If your salon has poor ventilation, add a portable fan or upgrade HVAC before installation.
Evaluate Lamp Replacement Costs: Lamps typically last 500–1000 hours. Calculate annual replacement costs based on your expected session volume. Some booths use proprietary lamps that are more expensive. Standard 160W lamps are widely available and cost-effective for most salons.
Consider Warranty and Support: A booth is a long-term investment. Look for at least a 1-year warranty on parts and labor. Verify that the manufacturer offers phone or online support for troubleshooting. The ESB Galaxy 30 includes free insurance and no tax in most states, which can reduce upfront costs.

Featured Product

ESB Galaxy 30 Tanning Booth (120v): The ESB Galaxy 30 Tanning Booth takes up minimal floor space and looks beautiful in any home. Its compact footprint makes it a practical choice for salons where square footage is limited, while its aesthetic design adds a professional look.
ESB Galaxy 30 Tanning Booth (120v)

Who Should Buy a Tanning Booth?

Best For

Salons with limited floor space that cannot accommodate a horizontal bed
Owners who want faster client turnover and easier cleaning between sessions
Businesses targeting clients who prefer standing while tanning

Not For

Salons with very low ceilings (under 7 feet)
Owners who need a bed for clients with mobility issues who cannot stand for the session