Everything You Need to Know About Steam Showers, Units, & Generators

What is a steam generator and what does it do? Items classified as steam generators are any products used to create and move steam in a bathroom or room specially designed for these purposes (steam room, shower enclosure, etc.). There are many benefits of steam showers including decreased stress and physical rehabilitation. Steam generators are also a way to add a luxurious and relaxing element to your space. Use our guide to learn how to make a steam shower.

Steam Shower Unit Types

Steam Generator Packages: Often referred to as “kits," “sets," or “all-in-one," steam generator packages include all the parts needed to have a complete steam room or shower.

Steam Generator Controls: Controls are heavily branded, and usually a specific control system is required when a certain generator is bought. You may also purchase controls as a replacement or when assembling a steam package piece by piece. These control panels typically include special features such as touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities.

Steam Generators: This is the device that actually produces steam when water is sent into a pressurized chamber where it is exposed to heating elements to produce steam. A generator requires both a control and steamhead, which are otherwise sold separately.

Steam Showers: This is an enclosed shower and steam system that's sold with a complete steam package. Think: steam generator package but also with a shower enclosure. Due to this product's size, professional assembly is always required.

Steam Generator Parts & Accessories: All various pieces such as drip pans, lights, and drain valves are included in a steam package. These are most often individually purchased as replacements or when building a steam package a la carte.

Kilowatts Needed

For an appliance this large, it is critical to safely determine the correct space for the generator's strength and size. Here's how:

• Determine total room volume (cubic footage).
• Determine area by multiplying length x width x height.
• Define the material of tiles/walls of the existing enclosure: If a material of more porous nature (natural stone, marble) is present, as opposed to something like ceramic or porcelain, then a stronger generator is needed to produce more steam.
• The total room volume should be multiplied by 1.5 or 2 depending on porousness of enclosure material, and other enclosure characteristics like windows or skylights.

Typical generator sizes/strengths (KW) for adjusted cubic footage:

Additional Considerations

Plumbing Location: Steam generators require a connection to feed cold water that is collected and conserved to be turned into steam. You also need to ensure that your connection is watertight with the proper pipe diameter of 1/2–1 inch and there are no leaks.

Existing Utility Voltage: Ensure that your steam generator is compatible with electrical service type being supplied to your home. Typically, the voltage levels are: 120, 208, 240, 277, and 480. Be sure to check the appliance's voltage under the Description tab in the Product Overview.

With many benefits to a steam shower, installing a steam generator is a simple way to create a full bathroom spa experience.