When shopping for steam showers you may find many features that are unfamiliar to many Americans. Here is some additional information on some of the different extras that are found in most modular and custom steam room.
Chromo therapy lighting
Chromo therapy lighting is colored mood lighting. It is used in a wide variety of application in these showers. It can be installed in the shower head or around the ceiling of the steam shower. It creates a unique ambiance when used as the sole lighting source in the bathroom. Chroma therapy lighting is a holistic healing method used for everything from relieving migraine headaches to stress. It is also commonly found in whirlpool bathtub combination showers.
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Pictured: Jetted Steam Shower by Neptune
Foot Massager
Foot massagers are a very common feature in most steam shower kits. To be truthful this is probably the worst foot massage you will ever get and by no means should this ever affect your decision on whether or not to purchase a particular steam shower. 95% of customers never use the foot massagers.
Ozone Sterilization
Ozone sterilization was a very popular feature in modular steam baths a few years ago. Most manufacturers discontinued this system due to the fact it does not work. A high enough concentration of ozone isn’t created in the steam shower to kill bacteria. Also Ozone in large concentrations is very harmful to our respiratory systems. For these reasons we do not recommend purchasing units with this system.
TV/MP4 Player
TV and entertainment systems can be found in some models of shower enclosures. The problem with these is the televisions typically are not ETL certified so they cannot be installed in new construction applications 9 time out of 10. Although this is a great feature for some, most people decide there is no reason for a TV in the shower.
Refrigerators
This is another luxury option only found in a few steam shower kits. It’s big enough for a six pack. ( Warning: Do not consume alcohol before or during a steam bath)
Back Massage Jets
Back massage jets are one of the best features of both custom and modular showers. It it’s a custom shower these are going to be very pricey and you want to make sure you are getting the right type of system that will give you the best pressure available. For modular steam units the rule typically is less is more when it comes to body massage jets. All modular steam rooms run of a ½” hot and cold water line so there is only so much water to go around. With few jets you get better pressure and more performance.
Aroma Therapy
Another great feature found in almost every steam shower is aromatherapy. For customer steam showers this is typically added directly into the steam generator. Modular steam showers typically have a steam box where the essential oils can be added. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to create scents and aromas during the steam bath. This is a great way to help cure a cold or flu. Eucalyptus is the most popular sent for cold season.
Whirlpool/Air Spa Bathtubs
Many steam showers have whirlpool bathtubs as the base of the shower itself. These can come in whirlpool massage units or air massage but most frequently are combination air and whirlpool. They also typically come with a heat pump which keeps the water at a constant operating temperature while the user is bathing.
Self Flushing Systems
The self-flushing system is pretty much standard on every steam generator since the mid 1990′s. Basically it flushes the steam generator with clean water after its used to clean out any essential oils that are left over then the water is drained from the generator. This helps to keep the generator in proper working condition.
Steve Jones is bathroom designer who specializes in modern bathroom designs.