| Thanks to the popularity of residential steam baths, | | | | factor. |
| there is a wide selection of steam generators on the | | | | Prices |
| market today. Deciding which is the best model for | | | | Generators with a higher capacity are naturally more |
| your home can be confusing. Here are a few tips for | | | | expensive. However, prices may vary from |
| choosing the best steam generator. | | | | manufacturer to manufacturer for units of the same |
| The size of the steam room is the most important | | | | size. The price is affected by the quality of the |
| factor in choosing the right model. Other | | | | machinery and the amount of aftermarket service |
| considerations include how often the steam bath will | | | | offered by the manufacturer. Generators with a |
| be used and the possible locations to install the | | | | substantial warranty are usually made of high quality |
| generator. Generators are rated by their output | | | | components, making them more expensive. |
| capacity which is measured in cubic feet. This refers | | | | Some generators include extra features like sensors |
| to the actual size of the steam bath. Multiplying the | | | | which detect problems in the water or electrical |
| height by the width and the length of the enclosure | | | | supply. Sensors are useful in pinpointing any problems |
| gives the amount of cubic feet. For example, if you | | | | that may arise. |
| have a steam bath which is two feet wide, eight | | | | Name Brands |
| feet long, and eight feet high, the enclosure is 128 | | | | There are several well-known manufacturers of |
| cubic feet. | | | | residential steam generators. The big names include |
| You may need a higher capacity generator depending | | | | Steam-Whirl, Steamist, Thermasol and Amerec. All |
| on the types of materials the steam bath is made of. | | | | offer both industrial and residential units and back up |
| Concrete or marble walls, for example, absorb a lot | | | | their products with generous guarantees. Their prices |
| of heat so the cubic foot capacity of the generator | | | | are quite similar, and some may offer special features |
| needs to be increased if it is to be used. Other heat | | | | such as aroma pumps and advanced steam controls. |
| absorbing materials include glass, stone, and slate. | | | | Building Professionals |
| Additional capacity also needs to be added for | | | | A plumber may be able to recommend a particular |
| exterior walls and high ceilings. In the above example | | | | model that will work best for you. He can also give |
| of an enclosure that is 128 cubic feet, a generator | | | | you sound advice about capacity and installation |
| which is rated to at least 130 cubic feet is normally | | | | locations. |
| used. If the walls and ceilings include glass or stone, | | | | You may also need to hire a building contractor to |
| however, it needs to be rated for 250 cubic feet. | | | | make needed structural changes unless your |
| Almost all steam generators are powered with | | | | bathroom is specifically designed to accommodate a |
| electricity. Most gas models are designed for | | | | steam bath. Before installing a unit, it is always a wise |
| commercial use. When deciding on a location for the | | | | idea to get a clear picture of the costs involved and |
| generator, access to electricity is the most important | | | | the work that will be required. |