Steam shower generators can add a touch of luxury to any bathroom. Warm water vapor also has health benefits, such as improving your body’s circulation.
A steam generator heats water to its boiling point before releasing it into a sealed shower enclosure, surrounding you with steam. Steam generators are not one of the more common shower features, so you will need to take extra care when choosing one.
To help you with your search, we have reviewed five of the best steam shower generators currently available. We chose these units based on their steam output, size, noise level, and ease of maintenance
- 10-year parts warranty
- Suitable for bathroom closets
- Three finish options
- Can fit small bathrooms
- Just 15.5 inches long
- High quality stainless steel
- LED display
- Self-diagnosis feature
- Safety lining
- Precision temperature control
- Automatic shut-off
- Surgical-quality stainless steel
- Timer and temperature controls
- Self-draining valve
- Controls work inside or outside shower
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we understand the importance of a comprehensive, hands-on evaluation when it comes to choosing the best steam shower generators. Our professional team conducts thorough research, comparing data and performance metrics to provide you with reliable results. Our analysis is based on criteria such as efficiency, durability, ease of installation, and user experience. Our assessments don’t just rely on information from manufacturers, but also on real-world experiences and hands-on testing. We rank each product based on these factors, giving you a clear insight into what sets each generator apart from its competition. Our rigorous review process and the evidence we provide are designed to help you make an informed decision, ensuring you get a steam shower generator that best fits your needs.
The Best Steam Shower Generator Reviews of 2024
Steam shower generators are a relatively recent addition to domestic bathrooms, so it is important to choose a suitable model. We have reviewed five of the current top-rated models to help you find the best steam shower generator for your property. These products were chosen for their material quality, power, ease of installation, and maintenance.
EliteSteam 12 Kilowatt Luxury Steam Shower
Best 12-Kilowatt Steam Shower Generator
This EliteSteam model is an excellent unit for larger steam showers. It has a power output of 12kW, which is ideal for an area of between 450 and 550 cubic feet.
EliteSteam is a leading steam generator brand, producing high-quality units backed by Steamist, which has been at the top of the sauna industry for over 60 years. The company is committed to making steam generators more affordable.
The generator is accompanied by in-shower controls for easy operation. It also has a few smart settings to suit your shower.
What We Like
Impressive Warranty
EliteSteam provides an extensive warranty. Residential steam generators, accessories, and controls are protected by a one-year warranty, enough time to spot any malfunctions or manufacturing defects.
The parts are covered by a limited 10-year warranty, providing peace of mind. A steam generator’s parts are more prone to damage than the generator itself.
Compact
Many 12kW generators are quite large and difficult to install in tight spaces. This generator is compact, giving you more installation options. EliteSteam says it can be installed beneath counters or in bathroom closets.
Everything Is Included
Your purchase includes everything you need to install the generator right away. This includes the generator, internal shower controls, steam head, and cable.
The controls are available in three different finishes, including brushed chrome, polished chrome, and polished nickel.
High-Quality Construction
This generator has high-quality construction. It is made of stainless steel and its components are made to last for many years to come.
What We Don't Like
Might Be Too Powerful
A 12kW steam shower generator is at the higher end of the power scale. If your shower enclosure or bathroom is relatively small, this unit could generate too much steam. There are less powerful EliteSteam models you can choose as an alternative.
Product Specs
| Kilowatts | 12 |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 17.8 x 7.5 x 15.5 inches |
| Cubic Footage Steam Room | Up to 550 cubic feet |
| Warranty | One year for malfunctions followed by 10 years for parts |
Our Ratings
User Experience
EliteSteam 10 KiloWatt Home Steam Shower Generator
Best Generator for Smaller Showers
If you are concerned that a more powerful generator might produce too much steam, this EliteSteam generator provides an excellent intermediate option. This unit is slightly smaller but will work excellently in an area of between 251 and 450 cubic feet.
Your purchase includes internal controls, a steam head, and cable, so you can install the generator immediately after receiving it. The controls are available in three finishes, including brushed chrome, polished chrome, and polished nickel. This makes it easy to match the controls to your other bathroom fixtures, so they won’t look out of place.
EliteSteam provides an excellent warranty. This generator receives similar coverage to the brand’s other models — the generator, accessories, and controls are covered for 12 months against malfunctions or manufacturing defects. The generator’s parts are also covered by an extended 10-year warranty.
What We Like
Excellent for Smaller Steam Showers
Even if you have a small bathroom, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an effective steam shower. This generator has a compact size but still produces enough steam for a thorough, relaxing steam shower experience.
Compact
This 10kW model is compact enough to be installed in tight spaces. If you have some extra space in your bathroom, you might be able to install it inside the room itself.
High Quality
This generator is made to last with a stainless steel core. Its parts, accessories, and controls are also of high quality and should last you for several years.
What We Don't Like
Relatively Heavy
The generator weighs about 30 pounds, which is quite heavy and could limit where you can install it, despite its compact size.
Product Specs
| Kilowatts | 10 |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 15 x 6 x 15.5 inches |
| Cubic Footage Steam Room | 251 to 450 cubic feet |
| Warranty | One year for malfunctions followed by 10 years for parts |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
ECO LLC 9kW Steam Generator
Best 9 KiloWatts Generator
This 9kW steam bath generator has multiple smart features to make your experience more user-friendly. These include an LED display that removes the guesswork from using the unit and lets you monitor how it is functioning.
The display also includes a self-diagnosis mode that will prevent much of the troubleshooting that comes with technical issues. Such issues are also made less likely by the unit’s various safety features including its water liner.
This unit heats water very effectively, despite its relatively low energy consumption. It will effectively create a significant amount of steam without drawing too much power.
What We Like
LED Display
The LED display provides clear information regarding what is happening inside the generator. It will show you the temperature of the room, voltage input, and timer, as well as any self-diagnosis updates.
Self-Diagnosis
One of this generator’s standout features is its self-diagnosis ability. When a fault or malfunction occurs, you will usually be able to check the LED display to find out what the issue is. In many cases, this will completely bypass the troubleshooting process.
Safety Feature
As a precaution, this generator is also fitted with extra water liner protection. This protects the generator against overheating, leaks, and overvoltage.
What We Don't Like
No Auto-Drain
For this generator to work as well as possible, you will need to drain it and replace the water regularly. This means it requires more maintenance than units with an auto-drain valve.
Product Specs
| Kilowatts | 9 |
| Material | Not specified |
| Dimensions | 17.5 x 6.5 x 156 inches |
| Cubic Footage Steam Room | 353 cubic feet |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Mr. Steam Ms225ec1 Residential Steam Generator
Easiest to Install
Whether your bathroom is big or small, modern or old, the Mr. Steam MS225EC1 Steam Generator will fit into your home. About the size of a large briefcase, it is very compact. It also provides straightforward installation.
If you don’t have enough room to install a steam generator in your bathroom, this unit can be placed 60 feet from your steam shower enclosure. This means it can be installed under a bench, in a cabinet or closet, or almost anywhere else in your home.
It also has removable, serviceable heating elements. This makes it easy to remove and repair or replace damaged parts. Mr. Steam provides a limited lifetime warranty that covers material defects and manufacturing errors.
What We Like
Precision Temperature
The precision temperature controls will help you achieve your ideal ambiance. You can adjust the temperature and steam settings to suit your personal needs and mood. This can be done from your smartphone or even by asking Alexa if you have one installed.
Safety Features
This steam generator has an automatic shut-off at 60 minutes. While we don’t recommend staying in steam for longer than 20 minutes, you might forget to turn off the generator after use. By cutting off automatically, this unit is safer and saves energy.
Quality Materials
Mr. Steam generators are made from surgical-quality stainless steel. It is recycled and recyclable and 100% corrosion resistant. This, along with the brand’s meticulous attention to detail, results in a reliable, long-lasting steam generator that includes a limited lifetime guarantee.
What We Don't Like
Customer Service
Some users have reported issues with the company’s customer service team. Keep in mind that if you encounter any problems with the generator, you might struggle to get them resolved. Make sure you know your rights as a customer before contacting them.
Product Specs
| Kilowatts | 7.5 |
| Material | Recycled surgical stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 6.75 x 14.5 x 14.75 inches |
| Cubic Footage Steam Room | 225 cubic feet |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Steam Planet Superior Steam Generator
Best Features and Accessories
If you want a luxurious steam generator, the Steam Planet Superior model lives up to its name. It has several luxury features, including an aromatherapy outlet.
The Superior Steam Generator is excellent for large showers as it has a power outlet of 12kW. It is also low-maintenance as it is equipped with an auto-drain valve and temperature sensors. There are two steam heads for optimal steam output.
The durable, reliable materials mean the control panel is safe for installation inside or outside the shower enclosure. Your purchase includes everything you need to install the generator quickly and safely.
What We Like
Smart Features
The luxury features make this generator stand out from the competition. It is fitted with a self-draining valve for easier maintenance. The temperature sensors maintain a consistent temperature throughout your shower.
A timer allows you to set your desired steam shower duration. This also helps you prevent over-steaming if you lose track of time. You can set your desired temperature alongside the time.
Easy to Install
The durable materials of the control panel mean it can be installed anywhere you like. It is safe to place it inside or outside the steam shower, adding to its convenience factor.
The connecting wire for the control panel is 20 feet long. This provides greater freedom to install it wherever there is room. The temperature probe can be detached to fit the generator in tight spaces, making installation even easier.
Extra Accessories
You will receive a few helpful accessories alongside the generator. These include a dual keypad to operate the generator, which can be used inside and outside the shower.
The generator also includes a stainless steel drip pan with a drain. This helps prevent leaks and spills from damaging the area surrounding the unit.
What We Don't Like
Steam Can Get Very Hot
Steam is warm by nature, but there is a limit to how much heat you can tolerate. This generator can create extremely hot steam, so it is important to be careful and monitor the temperature closely while using it.
Product Specs
| Kilowatts | 12 |
| Material | Not specified |
| Dimensions | 21.5 x 9.5 x 15.5 inches |
| Cubic Footage Steam Room | 460 to 700 cubic feet |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
User Experience
| Product | Best | KiloW | Material | Dimensions | Steam Room | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EliteSteam Luxury Steam Shower | 12-Kilowatt | 12 | Stainless steel | 17.8 x 7.5 x 15.5″ | 550 cu. ft. | 1 year (malfunctions) 10 years (parts) |
| EliteSteam Home Steam Shower Generator | Smaller Showers | 10 | Stainless steel | 15 x 6 x 15.5″ | 251 – 450 cu.ft. | 1 year (malfunctions) 10 years (parts) |
| ECO LLC 9kW Steam Generator | 9-Kilowatt | 9 | N/A | 17.5 x 6.5 x 156″ | 353 cu.ft. | N/A |
| Mr. Steam Ms225ec1 Generator | Easiest to Install | 7.5 | Stainless steel | 6.75 x 14.5 x 14.75″ | 225 cu.ft. | Limited lifetime |
| Steam Planet Superior Steam Generator | Features & Accessories | 12 | N/A | 21.5 x 9.5 x 15.5″ | 460 – 700 cu.ft. | N/A |
What Is a Steam Shower Generator?
A steam shower is a watertight enclosure in your bathroom. It is important that the enclosure is properly sealed to prevent the water vapor from escaping.
The most important part of a steam shower is its generator — without it, there would be no steam. When cold water enters the generator, it is heated to its boiling point. This steam is then released when you activate the steamer in your shower.
Important
Steam showers usually have one or two shower heads that feature different spray patterns. Many look and function similarly to standard shower heads. If you install a steam generator in your shower, you won’t need a secondary shower area.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Until relatively recently, steam showers were a luxury mostly found in hotels and spas. However, they have become far more affordable in recent years, making them a valid option for more homeowners.
Advantages
- Improves blood circulation: Using a steam shower has been found to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health (2). Improved blood circulation encourages a healthier heart and helps reduce blood pressure (3).
- Reduces stress: It is easy to feel deflated after a stressful day at work. However, a few minutes in your steam shower will help you feel refreshed. Studies have found that steam therapy reduces the body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone (4).
- Improves skin health: Toxins can become trapped under the skin’s surface and in our pores. Steam encourages your pores to open, releasing these toxins. You might enjoy clearer skin after spending time in a steam shower (5).
Disadvantages
- Expensive: The initial cost of a steam shower generator is less than it used to be, but it is still a significant investment. A good generator will usually cost anywhere between $500 and $5,000.
- Installation: A steam shower generator should only be installed by an expert. If you aren’t confident that you can install it properly, call in professional help. Improper installation could cause leaks and damage to other parts of your bathroom.
Choosing the Best Steam Shower Generator
A steam shower generator can transform your bathroom into a therapeutic area, but it is important to choose the right model for your home. Keep the following factors in mind during your search.
Proximity to the Bathroom
It is essential to think about where you will place your generator. If you have a large bathroom, you could be able to install it near the shower without it being visible. However, if your bathroom is small, you might need to find an alternative location.
Some generators can be installed far from the steam shower, while others need to be close to it. Consider where the generator can be installed and choose a suitable unit.
Power Output
Power output is also very important as this will determine how much steam a generator can produce. Choosing a unit with low power output, such as 3kW, means you won’t receive high-end performance.
To choose an appropriately sized generator, consider the size of your steam shower enclosure. A large enclosure will need more steam, thus more power. If you have a double steam shower, you will need an even more powerful generator.
As a general rule, make sure a generator produces at least 6kW. This should be enough for a small to medium-sized shower. If your enclosure is bigger, look for a unit that produces 10 or more kilowatts.
Even with a smaller shower, it can still be worth choosing a generator with a larger power output as it will deliver the steam faster.
Efficiency
It can be very difficult to get a sense of a generator’s efficiency before using it, so you will need to use some guesswork. Its power output will usually give a good sense of how well it will perform. A long warranty is a good sign that the manufacturer has faith in it to continue working effectively.
Maintenance
Steam shower generators require regular cleaning to prevent a buildup of limescale or minerals. This also helps to keep it running smoothly and performing at an optimal level.
Some generators feature self-cleaning technology, but these are rare and usually expensive. If a unit doesn’t have a self-cleaning feature, try to find out how much maintenance it will require.
Noise Level
Steam shower generators can produce sounds such as humming, buzzing, and even vibrating, depending on the model. When choosing a generator, consider its noise level and how it will affect you. If the unit will be installed in your bathroom or near a living area, try to choose a quiet generator.
FAQs
Are Steam Shower Generators Worth It?
Steam shower generators are popular among homeowners looking to add some luxury to their bathrooms. These high-functioning systems provide instant access to steam bathing, which can help to increase circulation and flush toxins from the body.
In addition, steam shower generators have several other benefits, such as reducing stress and pain, improving sleep quality, and promoting overall health and well-being. With all these positives in mind, it’s clear that these systems are definitely worth the investment.
How Often Should You Steam Shower?
When it comes to taking steam showers, there is no right or wrong answer regarding how often you should do it. Some people prefer to take steam showers daily, while others find that a weekly or monthly steam shower is enough to keep their skin feeling soft and smooth.
Ultimately, the frequency with which you steam should be based on your individual preferences and any health conditions that might impact your comfort level in steamy environments.
However, if you are looking for general guidelines, one possible recommendation would be to steam at least twice per month for optimal benefits.
A weekly or even daily shower may be too much for most people. It can lead to dehydration and other negative effects. Of course, the exact timing will depend on your specific needs, so talk to your doctor about what approach is right for you.
How Long Do Steam Generators Last?
When properly taken care of, most steam generators will last anywhere from 8-10 years. However, some models may last as long as 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
A steam generator is a machine that produces and transfers steam, making it an essential piece of equipment for many industrial processes.
Factors such as the quality of materials and construction, the operating environment, and regular cleaning greatly impact how long a steam generator will last.
Overall, a steam generator’s life expectancy depends on the unit’s type and general operating conditions.
Can a Steam Generator be Too Big?
There is no clear answer to the question of whether or not a steam generator can be too big. Some experts argue that bigger steam generators have more surface area, which means they have the potential to generate more power.
However, others might argue that bigger generators take up more space and are less efficient overall.
Whether a generator is too big depends on individual factors, such as design and how it will be used in practice. In some cases, a smaller generator may be more effective than a larger one, depending on application and circumstances.
Still, for most situations, there does not seem to be any inherent advantage to having a larger steam generator compared to a smaller one.
Does a Steam Generator Need a Drain?
There is some debate among heating experts regarding whether or not a steam generator needs to be drained periodically. On the one hand, some believe these systems are natural and do not require this extra step to function properly.
However, others argue that without periodic drainage, mineral deposits and scale can build up in these units over time, causing problems with performance and efficiency.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on several factors, including the type of system being used and the overall maintenance history of the unit.
Regardless of which side you take in this debate, it is important to take preventative measures to protect your investment and keep your steam generator running smoothly for years to come.
