1. Why do people take steam baths?
2. Are there any restrictions on using a steambath?
3. Is there a difference between a Steambath and a Sauna?
4. How much does it cost to operate a steam room?
5. How do I choose which steam shower unit is right for me (modular or build my own)?
6. Can my existing tub/shower be converted to a steambath?
7. Does my existing tub/shower require any modifications to make it a steam shower?
8. What should I expect to pay for my modular steam room?
9. What should I expect to pay for my steam room equipment?
10. Is a modular steam room less expensive then a building my own room?
11. If I need help during installation is there someone I can call?
12. I have very hard water. Is there anything that I need to do to protect my steam unit?
13. Do you need an exhaust fan in the steamroom?
14. Can I use a 110V steam unit instead of a 220V generator?
15. Does the steam generator take up any usable bathroom space?
16. Is the steam unit expensive to use or operate?
17. How do I take a steambath my first time?
18. How does the warranty work if I should need it?
19. Steam vs. Sauna. What's the Difference?
20. I have a broken part, what do I do?

Q: Why do people take steam baths?
A: We all need water to survive and we know how important it is to our health, hygiene and our environment. Yet when we think of water, most of us automatically relate to it in its liquid form; the water we make coffee with, take a shower in, spray on the lawn and drink throughout the day. This fundamental element has the ability to transform into solid and liquid states and in each of these states water fulfills different roles. One important role is water vapor or steam. Used for everything from powering engines to pressing clothes, steam also plays an important role in our health and relaxation. With a steam shower, we are now able to have the luxury of a spa in our home.

For thousands of years, cultures around the world have indulged in the soothing warmth of aromatic steam baths. Ancient Romans and Chinese were well known for creating elaborate baths. Steam baths have also become part of Native American cultures all the way from the Alaskan Eskimos to the land of the Mayans. These cultures used steam baths to clean the body, cure illness, rejuvenate tired muscles and provide a sense of spiritual identity. It wasn’t until the twentieth century that steam baths became a more common part of North American culture.
In the 1960s steam baths first appeared in large public facilities, such as private clubs and large health resorts. The benefits of steam showers, it seemed, were designated for those who had the money and resources to access the treatment. Later in the same century, steam showers increased in popularity drastically - to a point where taking a steam shower was part of regular health treatments and followed a daily workout at the club.

Over the past 10 years, steam showers have become a popular component in new home construction and bathroom renovations. With new developments in plumbing technology and products, steam showers are easy to install in almost any bathroom and have become an affordable private retreat. Steam showers can be used daily and provide numerous health and aesthetic benefits, and are a great way to have a steam treatment without the inconvenience and cost of going to the gym or spa.
A steam shower looks like your regular shower except with sealing doors. With an optional bench seat, which is highly recommended, we are able to kick back and relax and enjoy our steam, rather than stand on tired restless feet. Steam showers can come pre-packaged from a factory or can be custom designed to fit a specific bathroom. In either case, the components will include a steam generator, steam outlet(s) and regular shower head(s). The steam generator houses the element that creates the heat necessary to produce steam. The steam then moves through the steam outlet in the shower wall and fills the shower area. The steam generator can be installed either in the bathroom vanity near the shower, under the floor, or in the bench seat. Custom showers should include a sloped ceiling to prevent condensation from dripping. Aesthetically, the unit is streamlined and well-finished. There is also a reduced risk of mold and mildew in these types of units because they are enclosed and designed to withstand the humidity produced.

In our custom steam shower we can either take a shower, have a steam or both at the same time. For days that we choose to have a regular shower, it’s pleasing to know that, with the custom sealing doors, we will be cozy and warm while lathering as the humidity from the shower will linger in the spa. The steam outlet operates on a timer and can include a small reservoir where essential oils, respiratory medications or perfume essences can be diffused. We all know that men and women enjoy showering at different temperatures, so why not splurge on a custom shower that will accommodate his and her temperatures at the same time? Custom steam showers can include a combination of adjustable shower heads, body sprays, hand sprays and steam outlets to keep him and her happy and comfortable. Our custom steam shower line can also be equipped with accessories such as a CD player, in shower speakers, steam free mirrors, mood lighting and remote control for heat, music and light.

Before making the decision to install a steam shower it is important to consider several factors. The space that we are going to use may indicate whether a factory unit or custom designed shower will accommodate our needs. The available hot water volume may have to be increased and the budget and décor selection will have to be reviewed.

A professional plumbing and heating firm will be able to assess which system will work best in our home and provide suggestions for custom spray systems, such as body sprays, overhead shower heads, hand sprays, and multi-directional shower heads. Once installed, our new steam shower will require little maintenance. Regular cleaning is encouraged and periodic draining of the system and physical inspection of the electrical components are advised.

Steam showers are used around the world by professional massage therapists, chiropractors, coaches, estheticians and other health and beauty practitioners during treatments and therapies. With cold winters and hot summers, steam showers prevent the skin from becoming dehydrated and itchy. Steam showers provide a wet heat that is different from the dry heat created in a sauna. Steam showers open our pores so our skin can excrete toxins and dirt, increases blood circulation, and can help clear sinuses and nasal passages to help us breath more easily. It is especially helpful for those who suffer from asthma, bronchitis and allergies. Steam showers can also sooth tired and aching muscles. Additional benefits of steam showers include the following:

-Reducing stress
-Relaxation
-Rejuvenating the skin
-Detoxify the body
-Increase metabolism
-Cardiovascular fitness
-Increased circulation
-Pain relief
-Enhancing the respiratory system
-Aromatherapy

Given that the average adult spends approximately 5,475 minutes or 91.25 hours in the shower every year, making it a comfortable and relaxing experience can ensure that time is more enjoyable. Certainly, having a custom shower with all the bells and whistles, is worth it and will make our daily ritual a personal retreat. With increasing demands on our time and growing stressors in our lives, a steam shower can provide a quick and affordable escape from the day-to-day.

The ultimate reason for installing a steam shower in our home however, could be its ability to iron. Yes, iron. Simply hang clothes in the shower, turn on the steam for 10 to15 minutes, and our clothes come out looking freshly ironed.

Q: Are there any restrictions on using a steambath?
A: Yes. Although Doctors consider steambaths generally healthy to use, those people suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, pregnant women and the elderly who are not in good health should not take a steambath unless otherwise directed by a physician. Please consult with your doctor if you have any questions pertaining to health issues and before acquiring a steam generator. Also, steambathing should be avoided while intoxicated.

Q: Is there a difference between a Steambath and a Sauna?
A: Yes. The temperature and humidity levels differ along with the room construction. Steam is wet with a temperature generally ranging between 110 - 120+° F on average and close to 100% relative humidity. Sauna is dry with average temperatures ranging between 165 - 180+° F and with 10 - 15% humidity. Room construction for steam units is generally ceramic tile, stone, or acrylic while cedar or redwood is used for sauna

Q: How much does it cost to operate a steam room?
A: Depending on the kilowatts the average steam session costs 10-25cents per hr.

Q: How do I choose which steam shower unit is right for me (modular or build my own)?
A: Its really a tossup to what kind of place your building. Modular steamshowers are a favorite because they are very easy to install in comparison to building your own unit in the fact that setup is nearly cut in half in time and expenses and often they come with their component parts built in. The downside to modular base shower units are they often are built with extra you either do not need or perhaps are placed in the wrong positions to favor your individual needs (for example, larger individuals sometimes find the body sprays not placed high enough for them). Also there is a certain asthetic taste that perhaps will clash with what you envision your bathroom looking like since a lot of prefabricated modular units come in a very contemporary look.
In this case, build your own units come into play. Completely open to whatever you imagine, custom units are the best way to go to specifically tailor to your needs. The downside here though is costs in extra plumbing and labor. But this can also be an advantage as you know specifically what is running your system.

Q: Can my existing tub/shower be converted to a steambath?
A: Depending on existing circumstances, it may be converted. However, you must get the advice of a qualified professional (a licensed contractor with plumbing and electrical experience) before proceeding ahead with your plans.

Q: Does my existing tub/shower require any modifications to make it a steam shower?
A: Yes. The door and enclosure must be totally enclosed, so the steam does not escape from above. A 3/8" gap at the bottom of the door will allow cooler air to enter the shower for a more dense steam experience. (See Important Considerations for Planning Your Residential Steambath)

Q: What should I expect to pay for my modular steam room?
A: The average home has a 3x4 to 4x7 steam shower The cost is between $2,000.00- $11,000.00

Q: What should I expect to pay for my steam room equipment?
A: The average home has a 3x4 to 4x7 steam shower The cost is between $900.00- $1,500.00

Q: Is a modular steam room less expensive then a building my own room?
A: Modular steam rooms cost more however cleaning a modular steam room is super easy and fast. Keeping grout clean can be tough.

Q: If I need help during installation is there someone I can call?
A: That is one of our biggest features. Yes, there is phone help available during business hours.

Q: I have very hard water. Is there anything that I need to do to protect my steam unit?
A: You may want to consider a whole house water treatment system if the water quality is a concern. A lot of Steamers can operate in conjunction with a water softener. It is important to realize that good water is a condition which is desirable for drinking as well as protecting the plumbing systems, decorative hardware, faucetry and glass from the negative effects of hard water. An automatic drain is also available but not required for the generator.

Q: Do you need an exhaust fan in the steamroom?
A: No. After a steambath take a hot or cold shower and the steam condenses down the drain.

Q: Can I use a 110V steam unit instead of a 220V generator?
A: 110V definitely can be used for the steam unit. 220v units are available, but the costs of running the 220v electricity line can get very expensive. 110v steam units are the most common units used in American homes today and do not present any problems.

Q: Does the steam generator take up any usable bathroom space?
A: No. The unit is compact in size and can be installed preferably up to 25 feet away from the bathing area in a vanity, closet, insulated attic, or basement.

Q: Is the steam unit expensive to use or operate?
A: No. Conservative on water (1 - 1 ½ gallon average) and electricity, Steam showers are a very cost effective way to relax at home. As compared to whirlpool tubs, 2-3 fills of the tub can give the bather a year's worth of steambaths.

Q: How do I take a steambath my first time?
A: The method that has proved successful for the sauna applies to the steam bath, too and you should practice this regimen in order to recommend it to your clients:
Shower before the first session-time the stay in the steam bath in accordance with your personal sensitivity-do not exceed 15-20 minutes- cool off with cool fresh air and cool water without shocking the system and avoid shivering-take a warm foot bath if you have cold feet- do not take more than 2-3 sessions in the steam bath. In the case of combined facilities like sauna and steam bath, which provide for different types of bath, you may also switch from one type to another. What is essential though, is that you cool off thoroughly after each session. Never start a fresh session if your body is warm (or worse still, hot) and never change from one type of bath to another until you have cooled down properly. To do so could overtax your circulation. Unless the body has cooled down properly after a steam bath, even a swim in a heated pool could be physically harmful as it can be after a sauna. Enjoyed correctly, a steam bath will help to overcome the stresses of everyday life, to relax and recover and to gain new strength and improve general physical and mental well being. And what’s more, a steam bath can also be fun.

Q: How does the warranty work if I should need it?
A: There is a 3yr. warranty on all of our products.

Q: Steam vs. Sauna. What's the Difference?

Dry sauna, wet sauna, steam sauna, herbal sauna ... Do you know the difference? And what, then, is a steam bath? Read on to find out what all these different terms mean.

- Dry sauna is the name given to sauna bathing where you do not sprinkle water over the stones or humidify the air in any other way. The low humidity (just 5–10%) means that you can increase the bathing temperature to over 90°C.
- A wet sauna is best enjoyed at temperatures of around 75–85°C with a relative humidity of 15–30%. By pouring water into the in-built humidifier on the sauna heater when you first switch the heater on you can ensure the right balance between heat and humidity from the start of your sauna bath to the very end. During a wet sauna water is also sprinkled over the sauna stones to increase the humidity.
- A steam sauna is a gentler form of sauna bathing enjoyed at temperatures of 45–65°C with high levels of humidity (40–65%). To experience this form of sauna bathing you need a special sauna heater with a built-in water reservoir.
- The herbal sauna is a variation on the steam sauna theme. Here liquid fragrances are added to the water sprinkled over the stones to perfume the air with the invigorating scent of aromatic herbs.
- The steam bath is a totally different form of bathing. A steam generator located outside the steam room itself produces clouds of soothing steam in which to bathe. The 100% humidity means that, for most people, the bathing temperature is most comfortable at around 40–45°C.

Q: I have a broken part, what do I do?
A: Please browse through our "PARTS" section and please indicate what specific part is broken and we'll try our best to replace it for you.