Remodeling a homeowner’s master bedroom and they really like the idea of a residential steam shower in an adjacent master bath.
This is an electric unit (220V/ 1PH). Mounted outside the shower (ie. under the sink). Water fed into the steam unit and from there into the shower.
This is Interior Alaska.
I have concerns regarding moisture introduced into the home. This house is well built (Alaska Craftsman Home Program standards) full vapor barrier, mechanical ventilation (heat recovery ventilator), etc..
Bathroom ventilation is limited to the HRV (heat recovery ventilator).
Would an additional bath ventilation fan solve the moisture problem?
Just seems like an aweful amount of water vapor to introduce into the home.
Any general feedback on residential steam showers?
One manufacturer better than another? Safety concerns?
Thanks.
Replies
Jim,
Check out John Bridge. It is a tile forum and steam showers are often discussed.
Chuck S
http://www.johnbridge.com
Mr. Steam & Americ are two high quality brands in the residential steam shower market.
I have installed both.
Steam is always a concern for adding moisture & a bathroom fan is a must.
"The nearest thing to eternal life we will ever see on this earth is a government program." - Ronald Reagan
Make the shower ceiling out of Corian and tent it (pitched). That keeps (cold) condensate from dripping on you.
Use a separate exhaust fan for the steam shower, with the fan mounted remotely (in-ine type) and the exhaust opening IN the steam shower enclosure. Keep a short distance to the exterior and wrap everything.
Set up a switch to have the fan go on after a pre-determined adjustable time interval (your steam bath is then over).
Done 2 of them!
Jeff
Edited 2/16/2007 3:11 pm ET by Jeff_Clarke
I forgot about having a pitched ceiling---- That makes a huge difference.“A universal peace, it is to be feared, is in the catalogue of events, which will never exist but in the imaginations of visionary philosophers, or in the breasts of benevolent enthusiasts.” —James Madison
look into Aquaglass brand fiberglass tub unit w integral ceiling and steam generator control is builtin, well made fixture, use them in good hotels
this is a big company, makes lotsa standard and custom fiberglass units and i think whirlpools too i'd still use good vent fan(s)