Steam Generators
Q. Where should the steam generator be located in my home?
A. There are several places suitable for installing the steam generator provided
electricity and water are available to the location. Common locations include under a
bench inside the steam shower, a closet, a cabinet, the basement or the attic, provided it is
a dry, ventilated space that isn’t exposed to freezing temperatures. We recommend the
generator be located as close to the steam shower as possible to minimize the length
of the copper steam line between the generator and steam shower. Sufficient service
access to the generator must be provided.
Q. What utilities are needed for a steam bath?
A. Installation of a steam bath generator is similar to a residential water heater. A
dedicated 240V electrical circuit and cold water supply line must be run to the space
where the generator will be located. Amerec recommends a cold water supply to allow
the optional automatic drain cycle to cool water in the tank before flushing. A water drain
line should also be installed so the generator can be drained and flushed regularly.
Q. Can I purchases and install a 
120V generator instead of a 240V model?
A. Amerec manufactures a 120V generator, but it is only suitable for use in a small
acrylic shower enclosure. Larger space dimensions and wall materials such as tile,
marble, travertine, etc. common to most custom steam showers require a 240V
generator to ensure a comfortable steam bath. 208V generators are also available
if required to match your available power source.
Q. I have very hard water. Is there anything I need to protect my steam generator?
A. A whole house water treatment system should be considered if water quality is a
concern. Good water is desirable for drinking as well as protecting the plumbing
systems, including a steam generator from the negative effects of hard water. Amerec’s
ADK auto drain option is highly recommended to automatically drain and flush the
generator after every steam bath. We also offer a ScaleX water filtration system that
can be installed on the water supply line to reduce scale build-up inside the generator
water tank and extend heating element life.
Q. How does steam get from the generator into the shower?
A. Steam flows through a copper line from the generator and enters the shower through a
steam outlet head installed in the shower wall. It’s recommended that the steam head be
located 18” above the shower floor on a wall that is as far as possible from where
bathers will be to minimize potential contact with hot steam flowing from the head.
Q. How long does it take for my steam bath to heat up before it’s ready to use?
A. Steam will begin flowing into the shower within 3-5 minutes after the system is turned
on. Depending on wall material and other room construction variables, it should take an
additional 10-15 minutes for the ambient room temperature to reach the desired setting
and the steam bath is ready to be enjoyed. Entering the steam bath before the room
heats up to the preset temperature may prevent the bather from experiencing all the
healthy benefits of steam bathing. Amerec offers a Warm Start option on all AK and
3K series generators to reduce the time it takes for the generator to produce
steam. When the Warm Start feature is activated, steam will begin flowing into
the room in less than 60 seconds.
Q. How much water and electricity does a steam bath generator use?
A. A residential steam generator consumes less than 2 gallons of water during 30 minutes
of operation. Electricity cost to run a steam generator is relatively small. Based upon an
average kilowatt rate of $.08 per kilowatt hour, it will cost about $.30 to operate a 7kW
steam generator for 30 minutes. However, electricity usage will vary by generator
kilowatt size.
Q. What’s the life expectancy of a steam generator?
If the generator is properly maintained and you have good water quality, an Amerec
generator will perform reliably for at least 10 years and often longer.
Q. Why should I buy an Amerec generator?
A. Innovative features such as Soft Steam element switching, stainless steel water
reservoir, computerized printed circuit board and electronic controls deliver proven
reliability and performance. Amerec strives to provide high quality products designed for
user satisfaction and the highest standards of customer support possible. From planning
your steam bath to technical support after installation, we’re here to help.