How to Start a Sensory Deprivation Tank Business

Part 1 - How to start a Sensory Deprivation Tank business - Background

Sensory deprivation tanks give people a sense of pure weightlessness in temperature-controlled water. It is typically used to help people meditate by depriving them of all external stimuli or to relieve health ailments such as muscle aches or even asthma.

You may also be interested in additional unique business ideas.

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start a Sensory Deprivation business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

What are the costs involved in opening a sensory deprivation tank business?

It can be quite expensive to start an isolation tank business from scratch. One float tank costs about $25,000, but most stores will want to have at least two or three. High end estimates for start-up costs are around $340,000. This includes everything from readying the space to marketing to utilities to office equipment. It also includes licensing and permit cost for the building. There are a variety of ways to save money by price comparing, opening in a cheap neighborhood, or even by selecing previously used equipment. However, even with all these cost-saving measures, low-end estimates are still around $180,000.

What are the ongoing expenses for a sensory deprivation tank business?

The majority of the expenses will be maintenance and sanitary upkeep of the machines:

• Cleaning products/labor

• Tank maintenance

• Insurance

• Office equipment

• Marketing costs

• Employee salaries

Who is the target market?

Historically, these tanks were meant for clients who have a good deal of expendable income. Those who pay hundreds of dollars for regular spa services will think little of paying for a new experience that can help them relax and unwind. However, you can also promote your service as less of a luxury and more of a necessity to those with specific health problems.

How does a sensory deprivation tank business make money?

Owners can charge clients based on the amount of time they’re in the tank, or they may charge a monthly fee for a certain amount of sessions or even unlimited use. Spa services can also be sold as a package if you offer other services that will complement a floatation tank session.

How much can you charge customers?

Most sensory deprivation tank businesses charge over a dollar a minute, generally in increments of 30, 60, or 90 minutes sessions. Intro sessions may be given at a far reduced rate, such as $100 for two 60 minute sessions.

How much profit can a sensory deprivation tank business make?

On average, a store with two tanks should net more than $100,000 a year assuming steady clientele. Considering tanks only cost $2,400 a year to maintain after the initial purchase, you’ll start turning a profit (minus the costs of the space) in less than two years.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Adding additional relaxation services can help turn your business into a full-service spa. Consider adding massage or sauna services to round out the client’s day of rest and relaxation.

Day-to-Day and Growth

What happens during a typical day at a sensory deprivation tank business?

Owners may be faced with the following everyday tasks:

• Client intake and scheduling

• Tank maintenance

• Marketing/website upkeep

• Supply ordering

• Administrative duties

• Employee hiring/managing

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful sensory deprivation tank business?

People and marketing skills are definitely at the top of the list. Practically anyone can buy the equipment and set up the space, but the successful entrepreneur will need to convince those in the neighborhood that the service is worth it. This means understanding the values and the principles of the area, and deciding on the best angle when it comes to attracting a clientele. Whether it’s online, on TV, through flyers, or by word-of-mouth, a successful owner needs to anticipate how to make their name.

Owners should also have organizational and leadership skills. Schedules will need to be coordinated, staff meetings will need to be run, and supplies will need to be ordered.

What is the growth potential for a sensory deprivation tank business?

This question largely depends on the area you choose to open in. While this is market is largely untapped in most cities and towns, it is only popular in certain social circles. However, this experience can become very addictive or even be deemed a necessity for certain people. The right business owner can change people’s minds and open them up to the benefits of an isolation tank.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a sensory deprivation tank business?

People have very different reactions to the feeling of being inside a sensory deprivation tank, so it helps to understand how individuals interact with and benefit from the experience. People today are so used to having constant sensory distractions, from a blinking smartphone light to the distant sound of bird song. It’s welcoming to experience a change, but it’s also an extremely foreign concept. You’ll need to collect and study feedback, as well as develop your own personal experiences inside the tank.

Some people report very extreme feelings or events inside, such as hallucinations or strange thoughts. All customers will need to fully understand what they’re signing up for before their first session. They’ll need to sign a liability waiver so you aren’t held responsible for their reaction. You’ll also need to form a relationship with the health department. They’ll need to inspect the sanitation of the tanks and your space before you can open.

How and when to build a team

You’ll likely be able to keep the employee roster low by doing much of the work yourself (at least at first.) As your clientele ramps up, you’ll want to hire people who are organized and who have experienced the sensory deprivation tanks first-hand.

Part 2 - Is a Sensory Deprivation Tank business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Sensory Deprivation Tank business in 90 days