A steam shower works on a very simple and basic principle. It works just like a tea pot. Heat brings water to a boil and at the boiling point heat turns to steam. The basic instructions are the same whether you are installing a pre-made steam shower, converting a tub into a steam shower or building one from scratch. You should have some plumbing experience before trying to install a steam shower yourself.
Step 1
Prepare the area by removing any plaster or wall board and replace it with ceramic tile because steam will destroy it. A steam generator needs a 240 volt line to operate. You will need to have one installed by a licensed electrician if you don't already have one. Make sure there is no loose tile and that all of the grout is in place. If not, use a silicon-based sealer and then go over it with more grout. Lastly, shut off the water where it enters the house and at the water heater
Step 2
Install a water tap next to the water heater. Make sure it is completely off and the switch on the gas water heater is set to the pilot position. Open the valve that is located near to the bottom of the heater to release the pressure. Take your pipe cutter and cut through the cold water line about 4 or 5 inches from the water heater. Then make a second cut so that you are able to remove a length of pipe the same size as the tap. Fit the tap--make sure it is set in the open position--in the gap in the pipe and solder it in place. You can turn the water heater back on now. Use 0.5 inch copper pipe and run it from the tap to the generator. You will have to cut the pipe when it needs to turn. Make sure you solder every one of the joints. Use pipe clips to attach the pipe to the wall, you do not want it to vibrate when the shower is in use.
Step 3
When installing the shower head you will need to install the access panel for the brackets to hold the shower head in place. Install the shower head no less than 6 inches, and no more than 24 inches, from the floor and attach the brackets.
Step 4
Set the generator in place in the drip pan. Connect the steam line to the generator with a female adapter and then attach the water line with a 1/2 union. Solder all the joints and install the control panel.
Step 5
Run the system and check it over to make sure there are no leaks in the steam or water lines and then insulate the steam line. Let the system sit without being turned on for at least one day to let everything set and dry.
Skill: Moderately Challenging
Ingredients:
- Mini and regular pipe cutters
- 1/2" copper pipe
- Soldering Iron and Solder
- Drywall saw utility knife and access panel
- Drill and bits
- Pipe clips
- Steam generator and controls
- Manufacturers instructions
Keyword: Steam Rooms, Steam Showers, installing steam showers
