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Why do people take steam showers? 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. 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. 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. Are there any restrictions on using a steamshower? Yes. Although Doctors consider steamshowers 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 steamshower 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, steamshowering should be avoided while intoxicated. Is there a difference between a Steamshower and a Sauna? 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 How much does it cost to operate a steam room? Depending on the kilowatts the average steam session costs 10-25cents per hr. How do I choose which steam shower unit is right for me (modular or build my own)? 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 showerroom 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. Can my existing tub/shower be converted to a steamshower? 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. Does my existing tub/shower require any modifications to make it a steam shower? 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 Steamshower) What should I expect to pay for my modular steam room? The average home has a 3x4 to 4x7 steam shower The cost is between $2,000.00- $11,000.00 What should I expect to pay for my steam room equipment? The average home has a 3x4 to 4x7 steam shower The cost is between $900.00- $1,500.00 Is a modular steam room less expensive then a building my own room? Modular steam rooms cost more however cleaning a modular steam room is super easy and fast. Keeping grout clean can be tough. If I need help during installation is there someone I can call? That is one of our biggest features. Yes, there is phone help available during business hours. I have very hard water. Is there anything that I need to do to protect my steam unit? 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. Do you need an exhaust fan in the steamroom? No. After a steamshower take a hot or cold shower and the steam condenses down the drain. Can I use a 110V steam unit instead of a 220V generator? 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. Does the steam generator take up any usable showerroom space? No. The unit is compact in size and can be installed preferably up to 25 feet away from the showering area in a vanity, closet, insulated attic, or basement. Is the steam unit expensive to use or operate? 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 showerer a year's worth of steamshowers. How do I take a steamshower my first time? The method that has proved successful for the sauna applies to the steam shower, 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 shower 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 shower if you have cold feet- do not take more than 2-3 sessions in the steam shower. In the case of combined facilities like sauna and steam shower, which provide for different types of shower, 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 shower 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 shower, even a swim in a heated pool could be physically harmful as it can be after a sauna. Enjoyed correctly, a steam shower 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 shower can also be fun. How does the warranty work if I should need it? There is a 7yr limited parts warranty.
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