Can my existing tub/shower be converted to a steam shower and does it require any modifications?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, many tubs/showers can be converted into steam showers, but there are special considerations when creating an optimal steam shower beyond those of a conventional shower. It is recommended to get the advice of an experienced professional before beginning your project.
To transform your existing bath, your shower and door must be completely enclosed to prevent steam from escaping, and walls and ceiling must be tiled and made vaporproof. Location of benches and steamheads should be carefully planned. The ceiling should be sloped to prevent condensation from dripping on the bather. Contact SteamSaunaBath to ask about available vaporproofing kits for shower conversions.
How do I pick the right generator?
One of the first things to look at is how much space you have within your room. From there, you can figure out the optimal power rating for the generator you will need. Use our Steam Shower Sizing tool to input the dimensions of your steam bath and find the wattage required.
An underpowered generator will not product enough heat and steam, and an overpowered generator will overheat the space and not create the desired foggy effect. The correct measurement will determine the adjusted cubic feet of your space, which takes surface materials into consideration.
Why are some steam generators more expensive than others?
The quality of materials, performance, convenience features, and serviceability are a few of the main reasons for pricing differences. High-quality generators also tend to have a much longer life span than lower-end generators.
Another very important factor that goes into pricing is the safety of the generator. If a generator is UL-listed, this means that it has passed UL’s nationally recognized standards for safety. Be wary of cheap knockoffs as they are generally not serviceable and may not conform to your local safety codes, posing a potential hazard.
SteamSaunaBath only offers top-quality products from the industry’s leading manufacturers with safety certifications to ensure the safety of your environment.
Can I install the steam generator myself?
Your steam bath generator should be installed by a skilled tradesperson.
Where should the steam generator be installed?
It is recommended that your steam generator is installed on a solid surface no more than 25 feet from your steam shower for optimal performance. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual of the steam generator you purchased.
Should I install the control inside or outside the steam shower?
Choosing a location for your control is a matter of preference; there is no right or wrong answer. If you choose to install the control outside of your steam shower, you will need a separate temperature sensor inside the shower to monitor the temperature. If the control is outside the room it will be less convenient to adjust the controls while you’re bathing.
A benefit of having the control on the outside is the ability to start up your steam shower without entering the bathing space.
Where should I install/mount the steam outlet/head?
During use, your steam head will become extremely hot. Because of this, it is recommended that the steam head be mounted between 12” and 18” above the floor. It is also recommended to have your steam head located at least 6” from any corner within your steam room.
What is the best way to use aroma in the steam shower?
For dispensing essential oils into the environment, the best way to accomplish this is with an aroma oil pump, which injects the oil directly into the steam line. The essential oil scents are atomized and infused into the steam throughout the room, providing an even distribution.
What is the preferred ceiling height for a steam room or steam shower?
SteamSaunaBath recommends building steam rooms and steam showers between 7’ and 8’. This provides optimal heat and comfort for bathers and prevents extreme temperature variation.
Do I need to slope the ceiling in my steam shower?
Yes. This will make condensation run towards the wall rather than dripping on bathers during their bath. The ceiling should be sloped at an angle of 1” to 2” per linear in the direction away from the door.
How do I pick the right sauna heater?
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a sauna heater is the size of your sauna. From there, you can determine the correct power rating and voltage required to heat your sauna environment. Take advantage of our Sauna Heater Sizing tool to input the dimensions of your sauna room and find the optimal sauna heater for your design plan.
How much water and electricity does a steam generator use?
Typically, a residential steam generator uses less than 2 gallons of water during a 30-minute bathing session. Electricity usage varies depending on your generator’s kilowatt size.
What are the costs involved for running a steam generator?
Depending on the kilowatts of your steam generator, the average steam bathing session costs between 10-25 cents per hour. Electricity costs to run a steam generator are typically very low. The costs to operate your steam shower vary based on the size of your room, your local electric rates, and how much power is being used.
Steam generators require very little maintenance once installed.
Do you need an exhaust fan in the steam room?
An in-shower fan can aid in drying your environment and allow the bather to control the atmosphere while bathing. Ventilation is recommended for a steam shower for its ability to regulate humidity. SteamSaunaBath recommends the installation of a variable speed, duration controlled, vapor-proof, remote mounted inline fan to put the user in ultimate control.
Can I use hard water in a steam generator?
Water conditioning systems are highly recommended, especially if you have hard water in your area. Generators using filtered and conditioned water perform much better, prevent calcification, and last longer. Using high-quality water protects your steam generator from many of the negative effects of hard water and prolongs the life of your equipment.
How do I clean scale buildup in my generator tank?
Maintain the quality of your steam generator by using an automatic drain system and an in-line water filter. These work together to prevent calcification and prolong the life of your generator. Having a drain system and water filter set up helps prevent scale and mineral buildup.
It is best to use an automatic drain system which will drain the generator’s tank after each session to prevent scale buildup within the tank. Some steam generator systems include an auto-drain, though it is more commonly an optional feature.
What kind of lighting should I use in steam room/sauna?
Safety and durability are top priorities when it comes to selecting steam room lighting. Choose lighting fixtures that are impervious to heat and humidity, vapor-proof, made of corrosion resistant material, and designed for wet environments.
Is there a difference between a steam bath and a sauna?
A steam bath provides wet heat, while a sauna provides dry heat. The interiors of the rooms are drastically different; steam room surfaces are typically tiled or stone, while sauna interiors are made of wood. Saunas offer temperatures typically ranging between 160° and 200° Fahrenheit with very low humidity while steam baths are 100% humidity and temperatures are typically around 112°.
What is the difference between infrared and traditional sauna?
In short, a traditional sauna heats the atmosphere of the room, while infrared panels warm the bather. Traditional saunas usually take about 30 minutes for the heater to warm the room to its optimal operating temperature. In an infrared room, the bather must be in close proximity to the infrared panels, and no pre-heating is necessary. Temperatures in traditional saunas range from 160° to 200° while temperatures in infrared saunas are typically between 120° and 140°.
Is it safe to pour water on an electric sauna heater?
Yes, it is safe to drizzle a small amount of water on an electric sauna heater. Enjoyed for centuries by sauna bathers, “löyly” is the Finnish term for steam created by pouring a ladle of water directly onto the sauna rocks. This results in a permeating wall of humidity, instantly creating a more intense sauna experience.
It is important to note that a löyly of water on the rocks is only intended to create humidity, not visible steam. Too much water at once will reduce the temperature of the stones and can cause them to crack.