How to Set Up a Stand Up Tanning Booth for Your Salon

By Spray & Sun | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the step-by-step process to install a stand up tanning booth in your salon, including electrical, ventilation, and safety checks for a 220v commercial model like the Solar Storm 36ST.

Quick answer

Setting up a stand up tanning booth requires careful electrical planning, proper ventilation, and secure assembly. For a 220v commercial model like the Solar Storm 36ST, you'll need a dedicated circuit, a buck booster if voltage fluctuates, and at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit.

Before you begin: electrical and space requirements

Most commercial stand up tanning booths, including the Solar Storm 36ST, require a 220v dedicated circuit. Check your salon's electrical panel to confirm you have an available breaker and that the wiring can handle the load. If your voltage is inconsistent, a buck booster may be necessary to protect the lamps and ballasts.

Allow at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides for ventilation and maintenance access. The booth's footprint is compact, but you'll need room to open the door fully and reach the rear panel for lamp changes.

Tools and materials you'll need

Gather a voltage tester, a level, a drill with masonry bits (if mounting to concrete), a wrench set, and a helper for lifting. The booth ships in multiple boxes; unpack and inventory all parts against the manual before starting.

Step-by-step setup process

Step 1: Position the base frame: Place the base frame in the desired location. Use a level to ensure it is perfectly flat. If the floor is uneven, use shims to prevent the booth from rocking. Secure the base to the floor using the provided anchors. An unlevel base can cause the door to bind and lamps to misalign over time.
Step 2: Assemble the side and rear panels: Attach the side panels to the base frame, then install the rear panel. Follow the manual for bolt torque specifications. Do not fully tighten all bolts until the panels are aligned. Over-tightening before alignment can strip threads or cause panel gaps.
Step 3: Install the lamp canopy and wiring: Mount the lamp canopy on top of the assembled panels. Connect the wiring harnesses according to the diagram. Use a voltage tester to confirm the incoming 220v supply matches the booth's requirements before connecting the main power cord. Mismatched voltage or reversed polarity can damage ballasts immediately—always test before final connection.
Step 4: Install lamps and acrylic shields: Insert each lamp into its socket, rotating to lock. Snap the acrylic shields into place over the lamps. Wipe shields with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove fingerprints. Oil from your hands can cause hot spots on lamps and reduce lifespan—wear gloves or use a clean cloth.
Step 5: Hang the door and adjust hinges: Lift the door onto the hinge pins. Adjust the hinge screws so the door swings freely and closes flush against the magnetic seal. Test the door latch mechanism. A misaligned door will let UV light escape and reduce tanning efficiency.
Step 6: Power on and test: Turn on the main breaker and press the start button. Verify all 36 lamps illuminate evenly. Run a full cycle to confirm the timer and cooling fan function. Check for unusual noises or vibrations. If one or more lamps fail to light, reseat them before assuming a ballast issue.

Product spotlight: Solar Storm 36ST Commercial Tanning Booth

Solar Storm 36ST Commercial Tanning Booth - 220v: With the largest tanning surface of any commercial tanning bed on the market and a total of 36 extremely efficient high-output lamps. This means fewer passes per session and consistent results for clients, but the 36 lamps also draw significant power, so a stable 220v circuit is critical.
Solar Storm 36ST Commercial Tanning Booth - 220v