Steam showers add a luxurious and spa-like feel to any bathroom. After all, it does not only give you a relaxing escape after a long, stressful day. Getting a steam shower comes with many health benefits such as clearer skin, stimulated metabolism, faster workout recovery, improved blood circulation, and boosted immunity.
But your steam shower is only as good as your steam shower generator. A steam shower generator is a unit that heats the water to a boiling point to produce steam. The steam then goes through the shower system and is released through the steam head. When the steam is released, your steam room gets filled with hot steam that helps you rest and relax.
As you can see, it is the most essential part of a steam shower. It is important that you get the best steam shower generator for your needs.
Now, not everyone knows how to pick out the best steam shower generator. If you are one of these people, you do not have to worry! Here, we give you a review of the best steam shower generators out there in the market today and a guide on how to pick the best one for your needs.
Best Steam Shower Generator Reviews
The steam generators listed in this review are manufactured with quality materials and are safe to use. We also discuss their best features and the pros and cons of using them for your shower room. Here is a list of the best steam shower generators that we could find in the market right now:
Steam Planet Superior Steam Generator Deluxe
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If you are looking for a high-class steam shower generator with the best accessories, the Superior Steam Generator Deluxe from Steam Planet is worthy of being on top of your list.
The Steam Planet Superior Steam Generator Deluxe comes with a lot of accessories and features. You get temperature sensors, an auto-drain valve, two steam head showers, a dual keypad, and a stainless steel drip pan with a drain. With all of these accessories as part of the package, you definitely will feel that you are getting your money’s worth.
This unit is best for a large shower room since it has a power capacity of 12kW. The generator itself is easy to install. The temperature probe can be detached so the generator can fit in the tightest spaces.
The control panel could be installed in or out of the shower. The connecting wire for the control panel is long enough to give you the freedom to install it anywhere in the bathroom.
Pros
- Comes with a lot of accessories.
- Has an aromatherapy outlet.
Cons
- The generator can produce very hot steam the longer you use it, so you should use the timer to control the temperature and prevent oversteaming.
Thermasol PRO-395
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The Thermasol PRO series is known to provide a unique steam shower system. Units under this series are designed to keep your steam shower room at optimum temperature through constant heat at a constant rate while conserving energy. You do not have to worry about temperature fluctuations while using it, leaving you with a more enhanced relaxation experience.
This steam shower has a fast start system. This is great if you are the type who does not want to wait for a few minutes before your steam shower is ready.
The Thermasol PRO-395, in particular, are made for steam shower rooms up to 395 cubic feet. It can be plumbed 50 feet away from the shower without buying a larger kW unit. Other sizes available in the Thermasol PRO series are 84, 500, and 650.
Pros
- Comes with its own tank cleaning system
- Operates quietly
Cons
- Price is quite high
Kohler K-5529-NA Invigoration Steam Generator 9kW
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If you are looking for a high-quality and reliable steam shower generator, this could be the unit for you!
The Kohler K-5339-NA is a top-end steam generator. The 9kW unit is powerful enough to produce steam for a bathroom as big as 240 cubic feet. This covers a lot of ground for a home steam shower.
If you have a smaller or bigger shower, you do not need to look for another model. Kohler produced a wide range of power capacity for the K-5229-NA. It is also available at 5kW, 7kW, 11kW, 15kW, 18 kW, 22kW, 26kW, and 30 kW. No matter what size your steam shower is, you will find the right steam generator size for you.
The best thing about the Kohler K-5339-NA is that it produces steam quickly. You only need to wait a minute before you can see steam pumping out. You no longer have to wait for the steam generator to be up and running before you take a steam shower.
This steam shower generator is low maintenance since it has an automatic one-touch power cleaning system. You can clean it quickly every time you use it.
Pros
- Has a wide range of power capacities for different steam shower sizes.
- Comes with an automatic cleaning system.
Cons
- The control panel is not included in the package.
Turku Full Kit RX90i
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As the name applies, you get a full set if you purchase the Turku Full Kit RX90i. It comes with a built-in auto drain valve, safety pressure relief valve, steam head, thermostat, external digital controller, and the connection wires you need for the thermostat and controller.
You will also get a detailed installation and operation guide. Everything you need to install the steam generator is included in the package. This means that the whole installation process is easier for you.
This unit also has many automatic features such as auto-filling, auto heating, auto water supplementing, and auto drainage. It even comes with a self-diagnostic system! With all these automatic functions, you no longer have to struggle to operate the steam shower. All you have to do is sit and relax!
The Turku Full Kit RX90i steam shower generator can cover a room as big as 335 cubic feet.
Pros
- You get a full steam shower generator kit
- Lots of automatic features
Cons
- The length of the Thermostat sensor wire could not be extended.
Mr. Steam MS225EC1 Steam Bath Generator
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If ease of use is a priority for you, you will love the Mr. Steam MS225EC1 Steam Bath Generator because it is a high-tech unit that requires minimal human interaction for it to function. It does not need any cable connection since it relies on wireless connections.
You get an aroma sampler pack when you purchase the unit to enhance your overall steam shower experience.
There is a manual flush feature available, which significantly helps when it comes to the steam generator’s maintenance and care.
The Mr. Steam MS225EC1 Steam Bath Generator has a warranty of two years for parts and a lifetime warranty for short circuit and body defects.
Pros
- Air temperature control
- Free Aroma sample pack
Cons
- Bulky and space-consuming design
CGOLDENWALL 6kW Luxury Steam Generator
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If you want a steam shower generator that is energy-efficient, this CGOLDENWALL unit is the best choice for you.
With a power consumption of just 6kW, you can be assured that the unit is energy-efficient. You do not have to worry about seeing a significant adjustment on your power bill once this steam shower generator is installed.
When it comes to ease of use, this unit comes with auto-shutdown and auto temperature control features. It also has its own digital controller and cables.
This steam shower generator is larger than most of the generators in this list, but it is incredibly lightweight. However, it only covers a limited area. In fact, the CGOLDENWALL 6kW Luxury Steam Generator can only cover shower rooms up to 148 cubic feet.
Pros
- Energy efficient
- Automatic features
Cons
- Area coverage is smaller than usual.
EliteSteam 7.5 KiloWatt Luxury Home Steam Shower System
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If you are looking for a unit that will last a long time and budget is not a problem, then this unit may be the best choice in the market for you. The tank and coils used in the unit are made out of stainless steel.
This steam shower generator has a wall-mounted design. The unit weighs 30 pounds with all the equipment intact.
This steam shower generator has a digital display screen to show you various information like the time you set using the timer and the room temperature.
You will be getting a one-year warranty and an extended 10-year warranty for parts only. That is pretty much a good deal and shows how the manufacturer is confident in the quality of their products.
The EliteSteam 7.5 KiloWatt Luxury Home Steam Shower System works best in shower rooms up to 250 cubic feet.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Great warranty deal
Cons
- Not as energy-efficient compared to other models
Steamist SMP-10
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This is a steam shower generator that was built to last and emit high-quality heat. The components used to create this generator are made out of stainless steel. You do not have to worry about rust and corrosion for a good number of years. This steam generator can emit a constant steam quality and warm the room to 55 degrees Celsius.
The Steamist SMP-10 is best for steam shower enclosures ranging between 251 and 450 cubic feet. The unit is floor mounted.
The Steamist SMP-10 has a great warranty deal. You get a two-year warranty that covers material defects and labor. After the first two years, you still get an extended limited lifetime warranty that covers parts only.
Pros
- High-quality material
- Good warranty period
Cons
- You could have placement issues because it is a floor-mounted unit.
Happybuy 9kW Steam Generator
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If you are looking for a steam shower generator that can offer a great temperature range, you should check out the Happybuy 9kW Steam Generator. It can give you a temperature range from 35 to 55 degrees Celsius.
You can expect this unit to last since the generator is enclosed in a water box made out of stainless steel to keep it safe. The box comes with a ventilation fan, giving you better air control.
This steam generator has an LED digital display to make you aware of the room temperature and timer status.
The Happybuy 9kW Steam Generator is best for steam shower enclosures as big as 300 to 400 cubic feet.
Pros
- CE and ISO approved
- Great temperature range
Cons
- The unit does not have much finishing.
Amerec AK10 Standard Steam Bath Generator
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If you are looking for a unit that is easy to install, the Amerec AK10 Standard Steam Bath Generator may be the best option for you. Users have claimed that they could install it without the help of a plumber as long as you have standard plumbing set up in your house. This is great if you want to DIY everything in your home.
This steam shower generator also has a soft steam feature, enhancing your relaxation since the steam will not make you feel uncomfortable. This is great if you have kids in the house who want to use the steam shower too.
Amerec gives a generous five-year warranty for this unit. The Amerec AK10 Standard Steam Bath Generator is made out of high-quality materials, so you can be assured that it would last for a long time.
Pros
- Soft steam feature
- Easy installation
Cons
- Batteries are not included in the package.
Best steam shower generator buying guide
When it comes to the best steam shower generator, there are a few factors and features that you should consider before making up your mind and finalizing a purchase.
Generator size
You have to make sure that the steam shower generator you get is suitable for your steam room size.
The larger your shower is, the more steam you will need. A steam shower generator that is too small will not be able to produce enough steam. And if you choose a steam shower generator that is too big, you will end up wasting money.
To figure out the perfect shower generator for you, measure the steam room’s length, height, and width. Then, multiply those figures so you can get the cubic footage. Base the results on the specs of your steam shower generator.
Generator power and voltage
Steam generators need electricity to operate. Most units have three major power supply options – 110 volts, 12o volts, and 220 volts. You will need to accommodate these power supply requirements if you want to use your steam shower generator. Each steam generator also has a specific kilowatt power. Take note that the steam created by a generator will depend on how much power it can produce.
Heating element
Another factor that you should look into is the steam generator’s heating element.
Basic generators use only one heating element. But if you go for generators with two or more heating elements, you actually get more control over the steam the generator produces.
Advanced steam generators make use of multiple heating elements, and the unit produces proportional steam. This gives you a more precise steam output. However, this type of unit is also the most expensive one.
Heating speed
This refers to how fast a steam generator can produce heat and steam. This matters if you are always in a rush and do not have the time to wait for your steam shower to pump out steam.
Basic steam generators take around a minimum of 15 minutes to pump out steam. Advanced and more expensive generators can do so in less than a minute. So, if you want to get straight in a steam shower, you must be willing to pay the price for it.
Ease of use
The point of owning your own steam shower is to have the capacity to have a spa-like experience in your own home. It would be difficult to relax when you are dealing with a unit that is hard to operate.
You should get a steam shower generator that is easy to operate so that you can be in a relaxed state any time you want. It should have simple controls, automated features, and sensors, and other safety features.
Placement
You should consider where the steam shower generator will be installed. Note that some steam shower generators require to be close to the shower while some can be installed far away.
If the generator is not a quiet one, then it is better to install it inside a closet or somewhere that will not disturb the living premises in the house.
If you have a large bathroom, you can install the generator close to your shower. But if you have a small steam room, you might not want it close to your shower.
Control panel
One more thing you should consider is if the control panel is included in the package. Otherwise, this will be an additional cost that could impact your budget.
If it does come with a control panel, the next thing you should think about is if it has all the controls that you want.
Installation
When you build a steam shower, installation is an important factor, especially if you plan to do it yourself. Try to get a copy of the manual for the product first and see if the instructions for installation are clear and easy to follow. If you decide that you can do the installation by yourself, always ensure that you follow the instructions thoroughly.
It also helps to get a unit where the necessary tools and parts needed to install the steam shower generator are already included. Examples of such tools are cables, connectors, wires, and spare parts.
If the installation is a complicated process for you, it is best to hire a technician or plumber to do it instead. It is always best to leave such things to the professionals. Otherwise, you might damage the generator.
Maintenance
Steam shower generators need maintenance, and they require regular cleaning. This is to prevent the buildup of minerals and limescale. The cleaner your shower generator is, the more it will keep running smoothly and perform at its best.
There are steam shower generators that have self-cleaning technology, but they are usually from the top-end brands, meaning they can be expensive.
So, if your budget does not allow you to go for top-end products, make sure to check how the manufacturer recommends the cleaning to be done and assess if this is something that you can handle regularly.
Noise level
Like regular generators, a steam shower generator produces sound when it operates. This could be annoying if you are the type who easily gets bothered by noise.
Reviews
You should also take the time to read steam shower generator reviews and ratings by customers who have already purchased the product and used it. The thing with online shopping is that consumers are given an avenue to express their delight or disappointment in a product. Sometimes, you can even learn more details in the reviews not included in the product description.
Customer service
Before making a purchase, give their customer service a try to see if they are easy to reach and assess how they address your questions and concerns. Sometimes, even if a product is really good on paper, the customer service of a manufacturer can be so bad that the experience could turn you off. If you are having trouble with customer service when you just have simple questions and concerns, what more if your unit acts up and you need them to help you with your warranty?
FAQs on steam shower generators
What is the best steam shower generator?
In our opinion, the best steam shower generator is the Steam Planet Superior Steam Generator Deluxe. This is a unit that is high class, durable, and worth the investment.
Users have also praised the fact that it is effortless to install. The control panel can be installed in or out of the steam shower enclosure.
This unit is packed with a lot of features and accessories. There is no doubt that the manufacturer is giving you your money’s worth. It also has an aromatherapy feature that gives you a spa-like vibe.
If this unit is not within your budget range, do not worry. The rest of the models in this review are also reliable. They are not on this list of best steam shower generators for nothing.
How do I choose a steam shower generator?
The first thing that you should check is the size of your steam shower enclosure. This will determine the right size and power capacity for your steam shower generator.
The second thing that you should ensure is how quickly the steam shower generator can generate steam. Some basic units will have to run for 10 to 15 minutes before generating the steam, while high-end units can immediately generate steam.
Next, you should ask yourself – how much noise can you tolerate? Most people take steam showers to relax and have their “quiet” time after a long day. A noisy generator may get in the way of achieving optimum relaxation.
You should also think about what features and functions you want. For example, people want to have aromatherapy features to help them relax immediately. Others want to have a built-in surround system to listen to music as they take a steam shower. In contrast, others simply want a steam shower generator that is energy-efficient.
Your budget is also an important factor when it comes to steam shower generators. Get a unit within your budget but make sure that you are not making any compromises when it comes to quality. A lot of things can go wrong if you install a steam generator that is of low quality. To avoid this, make sure that you avoid shady vendors or websites. Only purchase from reputable sellers to ensure that you are getting a legit product.
Lastly, always check for the warranty deals. The longer the coverage, the more confident you can be that the materials used to make the steam shower generator are of high quality.
Are steam showers worth the money?
If you never had a steam shower in your bathroom before, the initial cost of having one may seem steep. This is because aside from getting the unit and the generator, you also have to ensure that your bathroom is in the right condition to handle a steam shower. But if your bathroom’s walls and ceilings are waterproof, then you do not have to spend that much money to get your own steam shower.
In the end, it is all worth it because having a steam shower comes with a lot of health benefits that you and your family can enjoy.
And if you decide to move to another home, a steam shower installed in the bathroom will increase your house’s value.
Also, steam showers actually use less water than regular showers. Therefore, the cost is also offset by saving money on your monthly water bill.
As you can see, when you build a steam shower, it becomes a great asset not only to your health but also to your house.
Are steam showers bad for you?
As mentioned earlier, steam showers come with many health benefits that help you mentally and physically. So no, steam showers are not bad for you.
However, it is always best to practice some safety measures. For instance, you should drink enough water before you start your steam shower session to not get dehydrated.
But take note, though, that steam showers are not recommended for those who have heart conditions, people with immune issues, or pregnant women. The heat can increase your blood pressure and heart rate. If you have members in your household suffering from a heart condition, it is best to consult a doctor first before letting them use the steam shower.
How much water does a steam shower use?
Steam showers actually use less water compared to a regular shower. On average, a 30-minute steam shower only uses 2 gallons of water. Regular showers consume this much water per minute. Baths use even more water – depending on the size of the tub.
How do I clean a steam shower generator?
Some steam generators have their own automated cleaning feature that automatically flushes out the system with just one push of a button. But even if your steam shower generator has this feature, it also helps to clean it manually.
Before you start cleaning, make sure that the generator’s power source is turned off and that the generator itself has cooled down. Then, you can drain the tank and take off the entry panel. Scrub the inside manually with a household cleaner. If you notice some buildup, you can scrape it away with a screwdriver.
Conclusion
Having your own steam shower at home can give a lot of benefits for you and your loved ones. But it is also important that you know how to choose the best steam shower generator.
With this guide, you will surely limit your options and end up with the best steam shower generator that will work for your needs.