When you have a young family, the bathroom is in constant use. Children of all ages are magnets for all sorts of grime, teenagers have their own unique vanity and parents want to soak away the stresses of the day. That’s why a growing number of US householders are choosing to invest in a steam shower. Let’s take a look at how this can benefit all the family, and also at the things you need to consider when choosing a steam shower for your own home.
Choosing a steam shower generator
The first thing you will need to consider is the steam shower generator itself. Around 1.3 million US householders invest in wellness upgrades every year, and a steam shower is one of the most popular choices. This means there is a wide choice of residential steam shower generator units to choose from. It is important to get it right for the optimum experience while also maximizing energy efficiency.
The most important deciding factor when choosing the steam shower generator is the size of your steam room or shower cubicle. Each generator will state the approximate volume that it is designed for, but as an approximate guide, a 6KW generator is typically suitable for up to 150 cubic feet, while a 9KW generator is suitable for up to 300 cubic feet. The most powerful generator is a 30KW unit, and this is suitable for a volume of up to 1,200 cubic feet. So if, for example, you have a steam room measuring eight feet by eight feet by eight feet, you are likely to need a 12KW generator.
More factors to consider
Other factors you might consider when choosing the generator are as follows:
- Steam delivery – high performance generators can deliver steam more quickly, with a delivery time of less than two minutes in premium units.
- Adjustable output – this is a feature that allows you to tailor the experience by producing different amounts of steam for different purposes, such as relaxation, respiratory relief, skin benefits and so on.
- Ventilation requirements – different generators have different ventilation requirements, and this could be a factor depending on where you intend to install the generator.
- User interface – most modern generators have a digital control, and some have touchscreens or can even be controlled remotely from a mobile app. This is a useful feature if you want to set the steam room up ready for your return home.
- Green credentials – most steam generators have energy efficiency features such as automatic shutdown timers and efficient heating technology. These reduce both your impact on the planet and your electricity costs.
Naturally, all of these factors also have an impact on the cost, so you might find yourself trading off certain features against your overall budget. Keep in mind that as well as the cost of the generator itself, you will need to pay a qualified electrician to install it, both for the safety of your family and to comply with legal requirements in most US states.
A steam shower has benefits for all the family
You might think a steam shower is only for adults. However, when used properly and with supervision, it can be beneficial for all the family. Steam helps to clear nasal congestion and facilitates better respiration by opening airways, so it is ideal for those with allergies or asthma. It also opens the pores and flushes away toxins, leading to better skin health.
In general, steam showers are considered safe for children aged six and above, but if in doubt, speak to your family doctor or healthcare provider first. Also, introduce youngsters to the steam room experience gradually, with short sessions of five to 10 minutes and lower temperature settings. Most important of all, make sure they are supervised at all times. One of the advantages of a larger steam room is that multiple people can use it at once, making it a perfect opportunity for family bonding and promoting domestic harmony.
