Steam gun for furnace drawing. Which steam generator for a bath is better to buy? Important things and nice little things

Most people confidently claim that making a steam generator for a bathhouse with your own hands is difficult. Easier to buy ready installation. We will try to convince you otherwise. We will demonstrate several options on how to make a steam generator with your own hands.

The principle of operation of the steam generator and its varieties

A steam generator is a device that turns water into steam. If previously such an installation was used exclusively on an industrial scale, today it can increasingly be found in everyday life, where it is an integral or main part of a bathhouse or steam room. The steam generator does not take up much space, costs much less than stone stoves, does not require additional construction of a chimney and compliance with many safety rules. The device produces wet rather than dry steam, producing a temperature from 35 to 90 ° C, which can be changed using the control panel.

Modern steam generators are divided into industrial and household. They differ in size and power. For home use The power of a steam installation varies from 4 to 16 kilowatts, industrial installations are much more powerful, they are designed for voltage from 220 to 380 V. Choosing a suitable steam generator based on the size of the room is not a problem. For a bathhouse of 10–13 m3, a steam generator with a capacity of 8–9 kilowatts will be sufficient, for 15 m3 – 12 kilowatts, and for a mini-steam room – 5 kilowatts.

Steam generators also differ in the method of water supply - it can be manual or automatic (filled from a water supply). Almost all industrial installations are made with automatic water supply, an air and steam temperature controller sensor. Water heating is constructed in different ways. One of them is electrode. Water passes through special electrodes, which heat the liquid to the evaporation temperature. The second option is a steam generator with a heating element. The most understandable and simple. Water is heated using special device, which has different power. And the third, induction heating is built on the same principle as the operation of a microwave oven - by converting the electromagnetic microwave field into heat.

A factory-made steam generator is a compact metal case that includes a steam generator, a water preparation unit, a pump for supplying water and steam, the water tank itself, a temperature control sensor and a control unit.

How to install a steam generator in a mini-steam room?

For a cozy cottage or private home, many lovers purchase phyto-barrels. This is a small bathhouse designed for one person. Externally, it looks like a barrel, inside of which there is a seat, the doors of the bathhouse are easy to open and close, and there is a hole for the head in the upper part of the structure. The principle of operation of the phyto-barrel is based on the creation of a phyto-steam sauna. You sit in the mini-bath and close the doors, only your head remains outside, a towel is placed around your neck, which prevents steam from escaping from the phyto-barrel. The procedure lasts about 15 minutes, and a steam generator is used to warm up the mini-steam room, which you can easily do with your own hands.

To make it you will need:

flexible metal hose for a mixer 1.5–2 m long;
plastic canister with a lid with a volume of 5–10 l;
metal-plastic pipe with a diameter of 2-3 cm and a length slightly less than the bottom of the phyto-barrel;
insulating tape;
tee fitting for faucet;
thermometer with electronic display;
sealant;
heating element (TEN);
electrical wire with a plug;
screwdriver, drills.

We start work by fixing the heating element inside plastic canister. To do this, drill holes of the required diameter in the container and insert a heating element into them, connect the electrical terminals to the outer wire. To avoid short circuit and electric shock, we wrap the contacts with electrical tape. In the lid of the plastic canister we make a hole for the fitting of a flexible metal hose, insert the flange and screw the liner onto it, use it for seams.

We put aside the canister and take care of metal-plastic pipe. We take a screwdriver or drill and make holes up to 5 mm along the entire length of the pipe at a distance of 5–8 cm from each other. After completing the perforation, we roll the pipe into a ring slightly smaller than the bottom of the barrel and place it on the bottom of the mini-bath with the holes facing up. Now we drill a hole in the bottom of the phyto-barrel to the diameter of the flexible liner, thread a metal tube through it and connect it to the metal-plastic pipe with a tee fitting. At the final stage, we fix the thermometer inside the barrel, and fix the electronic display outside.

Everything is ready, we are testing our steam generator. Pour water into the canister and insert the plug into the socket. The water will begin to heat up and steam will appear in the barrel. Don’t forget to look at the thermometer to make sure the system doesn’t overheat, and monitor the liquid level in the canister by adding water on time.

An old pressure cooker and an electric kettle - what to make of them?

In the garage of a private house or cottage there is always junk that can be used wisely. For example, an old pressure cooker. It has a number of advantages that allow it to be used as the basis for a home steam generator: sealed lid, durable metal and a release valve, thanks to which this container can withstand high pressure.

For the heating element, we recommend using an electric heating element. You can find a used part at a flea market or remove the heating element from an old electric kettle. Now we measure 1 cm from the bottom of the juice cooker, make two holes for the heating element and fix it with a bolt and nut. And to ensure tightness and prevent leaks, we recommend laying heat-resistant silicone gaskets outside and inside the mount.

Next, we supply water to the steam generator. To do this, we make a hole in the bottom of the pressure cooker, always under the heating element, for a copper tube, fix it and seal the seams with sealant. To ensure a continuous supply of water and without connecting the installation to the water supply, we construct the following simple structure. We install a container of the same size next to the future steam generator, attach a mechanical type float valve to the bottom, which will add the required amount of liquid when the water in the pressure cooker decreases. The work is based on the principle of communicating vessels. Using a flexible hose, connect the container to copper tube steam generator.

Now we make a hole in the lid to allow steam to escape. We select a suitable hose and, using a threaded connection, securely fix it. After making sure that there is no leakage, and providing the same amount of water in the vessels, you can connect the system to the mains. If steam begins to emit, everything is done correctly.

Steam generator from a gas cylinder - subtleties of the working process

The creation of a steam generator from a gas cylinder should be approached with caution, since this installation will work under high pressure. We will slightly redesign the gas cylinder, but first we need to prepare it. We select the volume of the cylinder depending on the desired amount of steam volume and the room where it will be supplied. We release all the gas from it, unscrew the brass valve and thoroughly rinse the cylinder warm water using detergent. We continue washing until the smell of gas completely disappears, after which we thoroughly dry the cylinder.

Next, we select heating elements, taking into account that 10 liters of liquid will require heating elements with a power of 3 kilowatts. We mount them in the lower part of the cylinder, remember that the pressure will be high, so we make such a mount so that it can withstand a load of at least 6 atmospheres. We move to the top of the cylinder, make holes for four tubes, where automation devices, a pressure relief valve and water refills will be screwed onto the threaded connection. After this, we retreat 10 cm from the top edge of the cylinder and mount a tube with a ball valve on the side, which is necessary to control the liquid level. When water starts dripping from it, it means that it has reached the maximum level and its supply must be stopped. Next we modify the brass valve.

We saw it in half, remove the top rod, drill out 15 mm holes, cut the threads and screw on the ball valve for steam extraction. The final stage is the installation of pressure gauges to control pressure and temperature, which are connected together. How do they work? When the indicators reach the maximum permissible norm, the heating will automatically turn off. The retractor coil of the magnetic starter will be used as a load. The installation is connected using a steam line. That's all. A DIY steam generator for a bath is ready.

Where to place the installation and how to avoid damage?

The steam generator should be located near the steam room, but in a separate room. It must be dry and ventilated. In this case, the length to the room where the steam generator is located should be minimal. To prevent short circuits and fires, be careful not to allow condensation or water pockets to form.

If all points have been taken into account, then the steam generator will serve you for a long time. Most often, its breakdown occurs due to increased water hardness containing impurities of heavy metals (iron, chromium), as well as chlorine and salt. To avoid breakdowns, we recommend installing fine filters and cleaning the unit citric acid. Also, do not forget to drain the remaining water from the steam generator so that plaque, scale and rust are less likely to form inside.

Regular visits to the steam room will help improve your body health and get a lot of pleasure. To get steam, most old-fashioned sauna lovers splash water on hot stones from time to time, but you can make a steam generator with your own hands that will produce the optimal amount of steam without wasting too much water. This device is small in size, has a simple design and can be used without a stove, even in city apartments.

Factory devices have software control that allows you to set the modes of a Russian bath, Finnish sauna or Turkish hammam. To do this, the temperature and volume of supplied steam are regulated. A DIY steam generator for a bath can also be adapted for all three modes. The resulting steam will be more delicate than when harshly pouring water on hot stones.

Which steam generator is suitable for different baths

Discarding the differences in traditional methods of construction and the choice of materials for each type of bathhouse, we can highlight the main features of the Russian, Finnish steam room and hammam, which consist in the current temperature and humidity conditions:

In a Russian bath, you need to ensure an average temperature of 60 and approximately the same air humidity percentage.
the highest humidity is required (up to 90%), but low temperature (40-45).
In a Finnish sauna there is dry hot (100) air with a humidity of about 10-15%.

The dryness of the hot air in the sauna is ensured by the oven door being open so that the hot stones remove moisture more effectively. It is not necessary to install a steam generator here; a steam gun will do large sizes.

In a hammam, where a large amount of low-temperature steam is required, you can create such a regime by pouring a lot of water onto hot stones, but you need a large oven volume. A steam generator is indispensable here, which guarantees the production of light, dispersed steam, and not heavy and damp.

The Russian steam room is a combination of a sauna and a hammam, incorporating them best sides. The required performance can be achieved using a fairly efficient steam generator that produces steam at elevated temperatures.

An additional advantage of using a steam generator is accelerated heating of the room (this is especially true in cold weather) and long-term heat retention.

How does a steam generator work?

The principle of operation of the steam generator is reminiscent of boiling water in a kettle, when steam is released through a narrow spout. Using a valve on top of the hermetically sealed tank, the pressure level inside is regulated. The temperature of the steam depends on the pressure. Thus, they are created different types baths

To use a steam generator together with a stove-heater, you need a design so that steam from the device flows onto the stones for the purpose of additional heating. As a result, the steam generator consumes less electricity, and due to a slight reduction in the heating of the stones, the service life of the stove is extended. This arrangement of the bathhouse is preferable, but if it is not possible to fold the stove, the steam generator can be used independently, consuming more power. But you can save on expensive stove construction.

The main structural components of the steam generator are:

water tank;
heating elements;
evaporation chamber;
safety sensors and valves;
Control block.

On the outside of the metal case there are:

Important: To equip a modest steam room with a volume of up to 5 cubic meters. m steam generator power should be 4-5 kW. For large rooms up to 18 cubic meters. m need at least 12 kW.

Depending on the type of heating elements, steam generators are:

Stoves. On the side walls of the oven there are special narrow chambers into which water is poured. It is heated by the fire of the stove and evaporates after boiling.
Electrode. Liquid heating is based on the principle of current flow between electrodes.
Using tubular heating elements - heating elements.
Induction. A hollow metal circuit is constructed that is heated by self-induction currents. Liquid circulates inside the circuit.

Water supply methods

Water is supplied to the steam generator tank using two methods:

self-filling of water by the user;
automatic supply from the water supply.

If you make a steam generator for a bath yourself, then automatic water supply is more difficult to implement. Another disadvantage of this scheme is that the content of impurities in tap water or its increased hardness quickly provokes the formation of scale, which will require frequent cleaning. When manually filling the reservoir, distilled water can be used.

Self-manufacturing and installation of an electric steam generator

Factory-made steam production devices are convenient and functional, but they are not cheap. The price of a small home appliance ranges from 20 thousand to 80 thousand rubles. Therefore, many craftsmen are thinking about how to make a steam generator themselves.

Features of installing a steam generator

The device is installed next to the steam room.
The steam line is installed so that its length is as short as possible. Otherwise, condensation will form. During installation, bends in the steam line should be avoided to prevent liquid accumulation in pockets.
Power supply is provided from a network of 220-380 V.
It is necessary to equip the steam room with effective ventilation.

In order to adhere to a clear plan on how to make a steam generator for a home bath with your own hands, you need to be guided by the drawings of the installation diagram for a homemade apparatus.

Preparation of equipment and materials

What you will need for manufacturing and installation:

Important: The volume of the tank is selected based on the size of the steam room. General rule: for a 10-liter container, the power of the heating elements should be 3 kW.

The gas cylinder is prepared before use:

Step by step steps when using a gas cylinder

Can be done hermetic connection It is much easier to weld two parts, but then the device will be beyond repair.

The designed device must be tested in action to identify and eliminate deficiencies.

Step by step steps when using a pressure cooker

It’s convenient to make a steam generator with your own hands from a pressure cooker for a small steam room. Much less manipulation will be required than with a gas cylinder.

It is preferable to install a steam generator in a room adjacent to the steam room, since it is an electrical appliance that is dangerous in conditions of high humidity.
The steam supply tube must be positioned at an angle so that the condensate can drain without forming a plug.
It is better to pre-purify ordinary tap water with a filter. To descale the liquid, you can add acetic acid.
When performing various health procedures, herbal infusions or essential oils are added directly to the water.

Important: In order to ensure electrical safety, the metal body of the steam generator is grounded. An RCD should be used for connection.

DIY steam gun

In addition to electric ones, a steam gun is used. This simple device does not require drawings or complex calculations. Since the gun is installed in a finished stove-heater, it is designed depending on its size and shape.

The principle of operation of a steam gun is that water from a pipe into which it is poured from above hits the lower stones of the stove. Passing through them, the liquid turns into vapor and enters the room.

What is the purpose of the gun?

deliver water to the lower area of the heater;
to produce additional heating of steam, making it drier and lighter;
leave the steam at the top of the heater for some time, warming it up and reducing the humidity.

All structural elements are assembled from parts that are freely available in stores. They must be corrosion resistant. If it is not possible to buy parts made of stainless steel, cast iron will do - they will also last a long time.

First you need to prepare the materials:

steel funnel (preferably stainless steel);
corrugated pipes (approximately 2.2-2.5 m);
tees, adapters and pipe connectors;
fittings for connecting corrugated water pipes.

You can buy a ready-made check valve or use a plumbing valve. It is necessary to prevent water from splashing back and is used as a water supply dispenser.

Connections made using threads are sealed, for example, with fum tape.

step by step

The funnel is prepared (take a ready-made one or make it from a stainless steel sheet)
The check valve is mounted and connected using a fitting corrugated pipe. It can also be regular tap water.
Using connecting elements, a device is manufactured in a shape that is suitable for placement in a stove-heater.
Sections of corrugated pipe will serve as steam diffusers. A series of holes up to 2 mm in diameter are drilled onto them. If water evaporates at an accelerated rate during testing, some holes can be closed with self-tapping screws.
The finished steam gun is placed in the oven and laid on top with stones.

During the first tests, the homemade device is filled with liquid in a limited amount, and the oven does not heat up completely. If the tests are successful, then you can test it in operating mode.

A homemade generator is easy to make, and a craftsman can make it within one day. It is impossible to completely replace the factory device, but as a result, a more comfortable atmosphere and better conditions for healing will be created in the bathhouse.

An integral attribute of any bathhouse is a stove, which provides rapid heating of the room to a certain temperature.

An alternative to a classic heater can be a steam generator for a bath - a device that is designed to create thick and clean steam. It is quite compact, economical, easy to install and operate. Steam generator sets are available from finished form or build your own.

Capabilities of sauna steam generators

It is difficult to imagine a steam room without moist air and clean steam, which has a beneficial effect on humans. What are the benefits of staying in a bathhouse?

humidification skin, expansion and cleansing of pores;
improving blood supply, lymph flow and heart muscle function;
relaxation of the muscle corset and detoxification of the body;
prevention of diseases of the respiratory and genitourinary systems;
strengthening hair and nails, cellular regeneration.

In everyday life, steam generator devices are used to effectively clean any surfaces from dirt and pathogens.

The steam generated during operation of a conventional heater is quickly released through chimney, while the steam generator in the bath is a sealed structure capable of maintaining high operating pressure in the range from 20 to 97 degrees, due to which moisture is converted into thick steam.

How the device works

A steam generator for baths and saunas is a special device equipped with an electric heating element. Its operating principle is similar to electric kettle: The internal tank is filled with water, which, when exposed to the heating element, boils and produces steam.

The protective cover of the device is equipped with a valve to regulate the steam pressure. This allows you to create wet steam for and dry steam for Russian steam rooms.

The design of the device consists of the following elements placed in a metal case:

water tank;
compartment for preparing and supplying water;
compartment for steam generation;
water and steam pumps;
safe operation sensors;
devices for controlling the device.

On the outside of the housing there is a panel for manual control, connectors for sensors and inlets for pipes that release steam.

Precise control of the steam formation temperature, as well as the intensity and speed of steam supply, is ensured by sensitive sensors and a processor.

Advanced instrument models allow you to choose optimal modes steam generation for different types baths

In addition, the generator can be equipped with an additional element for aromatizing steam. It is enough to add a few drops of aromatic oil to a special container, and the device will provide the formation of steam with the desired scent.

Expensive models are equipped with a built-in device for cleaning the system, which prevents the formation of deposits.

The steam generator device can be used together with traditional heating equipment - a heater. A stove with a steam generator for a bath provides the formation of steam, which contributes to additional cooling of the stones. This leads to savings in electricity and a decrease in the heating temperature of the stones, which means it reduces the heat load on the furnace equipment and increases its service life.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other device, a steam generator for a sauna and bathhouse has advantages, which include:

complete replacement of traditional wood-burning sauna heaters;
possibility of operation with ;
different operating power - from 2.5 to 15 kW;
ergonomic body and modern design that goes well with any interior style of the steam room;
equipped with an electronic remote control system that allows you to control devices from smartphones and tablets;
full automation of steam generation workflows;
possibility of adjusting the main parameters of steam generation.

However, such a unit has significant disadvantages:

the high cost of finished devices and components for repairs;
prone to breakdowns;
dependence on electricity;
susceptibility to power surges in the working network.

Varieties of bath steam generators

Existing steam generators differ in the type of water supply. Automatic feeding water requires a constant connection of the device to the central or autonomous system water supply Models with manual water filling provide for independent filling of the tank without connection to the water supply.

Modern steam generators are divided into two types:

Household use. Devices with a power of up to 16 kW are used for domestic purposes for heating small-sized saunas, baths and country houses.
Industrial use. Devices with operating voltages up to 300 volts are intended for use in public baths, saunas and country houses.

Important! In a steam room with an area of up to 13 cubic meters. m, you can install a steam generator with a power of up to 9 kW. For rooms from 16 cu.m. m, a 13 kW installation is suitable, and for a small-sized bath - a device with a power of up to 6 kW.

Steam generators for baths and saunas have three options for heating water:

Tenami. Water heating is carried out by electric heaters of different power.
Electrodes. In this case, metal electrode rods with an operating current are used, which ensures rapid heating of water to the required temperature. Such a device is protected from overheating, since the electrodes are constantly in water.
By induction. Water is heated by special microwaves throughout the entire volume of the tank.

Creating a homemade electric steam generator oven

The market offers a huge range of steam generator units for baths and saunas. But if desired, such a unit can be made independently.

We offer accessible step-by-step instructions on how to make a steam generator with your own hands.

Before you begin creating the device, you should increase the inertia rate of the steam room. Most affordable option– increase the number and weight of bath stones placed in galvanized mesh containers.

All work is carried out in the following order:

The stone container is installed on the electric furnace.
Stones are laid out at the bottom.
A steam plant is placed on top of the stones.
A heat-resistant red brick screen is being made. The pipe, equipped with an economizer, is covered with magnesite sheets, which are installed on the base.
Additional stone placement is carried out to prevent thermal radiation.

To make a homemade steam generator, you can take an empty gas cylinder. To work you should prepare:

gas cylinder;
heating elements;
pointer pressure gauges;
ball valve

Instructions for creating a steam generator

A used propane cylinder is used as the basis for the device. Before starting work, the remaining gas is released through the inlet valve, and inner part housings are cleaned warm soap solution until the odor is completely removed. The prepared container is thoroughly dried.
The heating elements are inserted. The number of heating elements is chosen taking into account the volume of the tank: for 10 liters of liquid - 3 kW. The elements are installed in the lower part of the housing. It is important to remember that the finished mount must withstand a working pressure of 6 atmospheres.
The upper part of the housing is equipped with 4 threaded outlet tubes. Automation elements are connected to them, as well as a valve for supplying liquid and reducing pressure.
In the side part of the body, at a distance of 12 cm from the top, a tube equipped with a ball valve, which is intended to control the water level in the cylinder, is fixed by welding. As the tank fills with water, the tap remains open and then closes.
A gas valve made of brass is used to create an element for releasing the generated steam. The part is sawn into two equal parts, the rod is dismantled and an inlet 16 mm in size is made. Cut the thread and install a valve with a ball mechanism.
The function of sensors for monitoring the temperature regime and operating pressure in the system is performed by pointer pressure gauges. To do this, it is enough to make the correct connection of the devices to the steam generator.

Installation of a homemade steam generator

The final stage – correct installation the unit, on which the safety, stability and durability of its use depend.

The sauna steam generator unit should not be mounted directly in the steam room, it is better to provide a separate room for this. It must be electrified, dry and have good system ventilation. In addition, it should be provided with a system of cold water supply and drainage.

The stove for a bath with a steam generator is quite energy-intensive, so it is necessary to provide a grounded socket in advance.

To prevent the possible formation of condensation inside the device, the length of the steam wire from the technical room to the steam room should be minimal.

Rules for the care of a steam generator for a bath

The electric steam oven has one important advantage– ease of maintenance. It is easy to operate such a unit and even a novice bath attendant can do it.

The main condition is the timely removal of scale residues from the heating elements to prevent overheating and damage to the device. To clean heating elements, it is recommended to use safe chemicals for household appliances.

To prevent the appearance of scale, special softening agents are added to the water or additional filters are installed, and after using the device, the remaining liquid is drained.

Compliance with the established rules will provide reliable protection against scale and extend the life of the device.

Steam room connoisseurs will appreciate the advantages of a steam generator unit, since such a purchase will become a reliable assistant for organizing bathing leisure. In addition, such a device can be made with your own hands from available materials, paying special attention to safety elements.

A traditional Russian bath requires a stove-stove. However, its design and operation is not easy and requires skills. If we talk about “extracting” soft and light steam from the stove, then this skill is akin to talent - there are a lot of features and nuances that need to be taken into account. Yes, and the choice and installation of even the most basic iron stove the matter is troublesome and complex - you need to think through and ensure fire safety, take care of the installation of the chimney and its proper wiring through the roof, strengthen the foundation, if this was not provided for during planning. In general, there is enough trouble. An easier solution is to install a steam generator. These are small (relative to the size of the oven) devices equipped with a control system that are capable of producing steam of different humidity and temperature.

Steam generators can work in tandem with a furnace or separately from it. But they can only fully heat a small steam room - about 4-6 m 3 - depending on the model and power.

Steam generators - small devices

In short, the operating principle of electric steam generators is to convert water poured into a tank into steam. This can only be done with heated surfaces. They can be heated using any coolant: gas (liquefied and natural), solid and liquid fuel, electricity. Household steam generators are only electric. Moreover, they also mainly work on heating elements. Other types - induction and electrode - are mainly used in industrial models. So for home use, only steam generators on heating elements remain.

Design and principle of operation of electric steam generators

Depending on the connection method, steam generators can be autonomous or automatic. Autonomous ones require you to fill the appropriate tanks with water, while automatic ones do this on their own. But their installation automated systems complex: connection to the water supply system is required. In addition, these models have one significant drawback: the water in our pipes has a large amount of impurities, which leads to the formation of a large amount of scale. It must be removed regularly. Of course, there is a solution - to install a water treatment system, as well as washing and purification. But these functions complicate the design, which invariably affects the price.

In this sense, autonomous models are good: you can fill the container with purified or even distilled water. Since such devices have more simple design, then they are cheaper. Water tanks have quite large volumes - 3-6 liters, which is more than enough for home use. So they won’t burden you much with service.

Regardless of the connection method, these steam generators are structurally similar. There is a container filled with water. The container contains heating elements that heat it, and when it boils, steam is released. It comes out through the holes that are located at the top.

For anyone familiar with saunas, the disadvantage of this method is obvious: the steam produced is not hot - about 100°C, and heavy. And these are not at all the conditions we strive for. With such a couple, you will experience not lightness and an increase in strength, but weakness and lethargy. Not at all what is needed.

But our man is famous for finding a way out of any situation. So it is this time: the resulting raw steam is fired onto heated stones in an electric heater. As a result, it turns out that the load on the furnace is small, the heating elements in it are not overloaded, which extends its service life. At the output we have well-heated light steam: raw steam, passing through heated stones, has reached good conditions. There is one connection feature: the steam line must have a slope (in any direction) so that the condensate formed on the walls can flow either back into the container with water, or onto the stones of the heater. This one is simple, but very effective method obtain the desired steam characteristics.

This is a steam generator from Teplodar

But there is one electric steam generator that immediately produces light and well-heated steam. This is “InSteam-Energy” from Teplodar. Since this company has been producing sauna stoves for a long time, it is familiar with the requirements of sauna attendants. Their product has a more complex design, but produces transparent steam heated to high temperatures. Below is a video. This is an advertising video, but you can get the essence and the difference.

For metal sauna stoves

There is another type of device, which is also called steam generators. These are different structures made of metal that are built into. They are offered by manufacturers of sauna stoves. Some models have built-in such devices, in some they are an option (purchased separately, then installed). The designs may be different. Here are some of them:

No matter how attractive these devices look, there is a drawback: they are not stones. Overheated metal still has some specific odor, which does not happen from stones. This is why sauna connoisseurs believe that the best steam in a sauna comes from the stones. Find yourself a stove that has an internal heater. And no steam generators are needed. But this is in a stationary Russian bathhouse. And as a “home” option, an electric steam generator is perhaps a worthy invention.

and no steam generator is needed

Capabilities of electric steam generators

Modern models are capable of producing steam of different humidity and temperature (from 35 o C to 95 o C). These data are set on the control panel, and all conditions are maintained automatically using sensors. This makes it possible to create in one room an atmosphere characteristic of.

Due to the fact that steam generators operate in conditions of high humidity, they are subject to high safety requirements. The performance of the device is constantly monitored and at the slightest deviation from the norm, the power is automatically turned off.

The power of steam generators varies within wide limits - household models have from 4 kW to 18 kW, industrial ones are many times more powerful. The choice of device for this parameter depends on the volume of the room. For a small steam room with a volume of up to 5 cubic meters, the power of the steam generator should be no more than 5 kW, for up to 13 cubic meters 8-9 kW is enough, and for more spacious ones, very powerful models are needed - up to 12-14 kW.

Rules for installing steam generators

It is not always possible or desirable to install another device in a small steam room. Then the housing is placed outside, and steam is supplied through a heat-resistant hose - a steam line. When choosing an installation location, you need to consider several points:

That's all the requirements. Any more or less technically competent person can cope with the installation.

Steam generator manufacturers

Most of this equipment is of imported origin. But he recently joined the campaign of the Finns, Swiss and Germans Russian manufacturer- Teplodar. Their equipment is amazing. Firstly, the low price - it is 2-3 times less than devices of similar power from market leaders (Teplodarovsky ones cost 6.5 - 8.5 thousand rubles, and all others - from 18 to 28 thousand rubles) Firstly, secondly, better steam conditions.

There is another Russian enterprise that produces steam generators for baths, hammams and saunas. This is the Voronezh enterprise "PAROMAX", which produces heating elements and steam generators of the same name.

As in the situation with sauna stoves, the Finns are considered to be the market leaders: the HELO company produces ergonomic steam generators in a wide range of capacities, with various additional functions (the ability to aromatize steam, preliminary purification of the supplied water, a tank cleaning system, digital control panels, etc. ) Sawo is not far behind - they also have a considerable selection.

Also popular are products from the Swedish company Tylo, which are distinguished by their high reliability and unpretentious operating conditions. There are also steam generators on the market from Harvia, which produces reliable and high-quality devices.

Germans are present in smaller numbers: companies Eos, Dr. Kern presents vertical models that are rarely found on the market. They are installed on the floor and look like small columns.

To ensure the creation of an appropriate atmosphere in the bathhouse, hand-made heater stoves are traditionally used. Everything is very simple - the stone installation is heated to high temperatures, water or special herbal infusions are splashed on it (or inside it, depending on the mode), obtaining the required quantity and quality of steam.

However, even the simplest stove requires compliance with many important conditions ather installation, and they are not always feasible. In addition, it is almost completely excluded in a city apartment, and many residents of high-rise buildings also want to have at least a miniature bathhouse. Some lovers of bath procedures and simply for other reasons are actively switching to modern technologies, abandoning stoves and completely switching to electric heating. In any of these cases, a device that artificially creates the necessary concentration of water vapor in the steam room can help. We are talking about steam generators or, as they are called differently, steam generators. These units are usually a small-sized device that generates and supplies steam to the bathhouse.

Steam generators may have different designs, respectively, and various components. And when thinking about purchasing such a device, potential owners are sure to face the question of how to install a steam generator for a bathhouse with their own hands.

Types of steam generators and their design

Why is a sauna steam generator needed?

As you know, a Russian bathhouse without steam is not a bathhouse, since it has always been famous for its unique light and healing atmosphere. It is the specific microclimate of the steam room that gives a person health, cleansing the internal organs of toxins, as well as making the skin clean even without the use of detergents, such as gels and soap.

Prices and model range of Parofon steam generators

Steam generators for saunas and baths Parofon

In Russian baths, for a long time, in order to achieve the necessary microclimate, special large ones were installed, which were the source of heating the room and, in fact, the “generator” of steam.

Such stoves are designed only for bath procedures - heating water, creating the necessary temperature regime indoors and for steam generation, that is, they have narrowly targeted functions. It is clear that not every home owner can afford to “raise” such a structure, since it requires not only a spacious steam room, but also a reliable foundation. Therefore in Lately bath lovers began to replace traditional brick kilns metal or compact brick.

Such ovens occupy small area, but they require quite a lot of time and fuel for high-quality heating of the stone installation. As already mentioned, such a stove requires a reliable chimney, that is, installing it in an apartment is a priori excluded.

Prices for steam generators

steam generator

Gas stoves for saunas

In fairness, it should be noted that a sauna stove can work not only with wood. Currently, there is a fairly wide range on sale. Short review such units and recommendations for selection are in a separate article on our portal.

Difficulties with installing stoves still do not stop lovers of regular bathing procedures. Many owners purchase practical steam generators instead of heaters. They make a good replacement for stoves, as they work on the same principle of converting water into steam.

If, when firing any furnace, a significant part of the resulting heat, and even steam, goes into the chimney, then the generators only work for the room. They are closed systems and operate under high pressure, supplying the required amount of steam to the steam room.

It is characteristic that steam generators are not too complex in design, so many who like to take a good steam bath even make them themselves. Factory-assembled models are not cheap - today their price ranges from 12 thousand rubles in the simplest version, and up to 130 thousand rubles for powerful units equipped with many additional functions.

Device design

All steam generators have approximately identical design. They consist of the following components, which are: different models, of course, may differ in design and layout:

Water container.
Block chamber for moisture evaporation. If a steam generator is used with a heating element installed in it, then steam is generated in the water tank in which the heating element is located.
Filter for mechanical cleaning water.
Circulation pump for water.
Pump to create pressure for steam.
One of the types of water heaters, which will be discussed below.
Electronic control unit.
Temperature sensor.

A branch pipe designed to connect a cold water supply pipe, which is connected to a water supply system.
Tap for draining water.
Connection fitting.
Branch pipe and pipe for steam line.
Connectors for connecting sensors.
Control Panel.
Remote control panel.
Protection against overheating of the heating element, if provided by the design.
A microprocessor regulates the intensity of steam supply; it allows you to set the time interval for the flow of vapor into the room.
The temperature sensor monitors the room temperature.
Water level sensor in the tank.
Some models may include a container for herbal preparations and aromatic solutions.

Types of steam generator heaters

Steam generators Based on the design of the water heater, they are divided into three types - induction, electrode and heating water to high temperatures using heating elements. Essentially, the principles are exactly the same as those used in the various types.

Induction generators work on the principle of microwave ovens that heat water in a glass of water. The steam supplied by the steam generator can have different consistency and humidity, as well as a temperature of 35÷95 degrees - these parameters are set using the control panel of the electronic device. So, for example, in a bathhouse you can create a microclimate characteristic of a Russian bathhouse, sauna, and Turkish hammam.

The operating principle of an electrode steam generator is that two electrodes are placed in an aqueous environment. Due to the frequency of changing the direction of the alternating current, the water quickly heats up. Something similar is practiced in the manufacture homemade boilers, so popular among students or the army (from two metal plates, for example, razor blades, located with a small gap). The (electrode) heating boilers work in the same way.

The heating element brings water to high temperatures due to resistive heating of the conductors as it passes through them electric current. In fact, this is a regular boiler familiar to everyone, only it is installed permanently in a container. These heating elements can have different power, and it is selected depending on the volume of the tank and the amount of water to be heated.

Such devices, with built-in heating elements, by the way, are the most common among the entire variety of steam generators.

Ways to supply water to the steam generator

In addition to the principle of converting water into steam, steam generators can differ in the water supply system, that is, they can be autonomous or automatic.

Autonomous steam generation systems do not depend on the presence of water supply in the house, since water is poured into the container manually. The advantage of such devices is their mobility, that is, with their help, a bathhouse, in fact, can be organized in any room suitable for such purposes. The disadvantage of autonomous steam generators is the lack of a control system; therefore, they are less practical and more dangerous during operation.
The automatic steam generator is connected to the water supply system, so water is supplied to them under a certain pressure. In addition, steam is also supplied to the room under pressure. The current operating parameters of such steam generators are regulated by an electronic control unit.

Steam generator power

Steam generators are divided according to their power - into household and industrial. Thus, household appliances have a power in the range of 2–9 kW and operate from a single-phase electrical network at a voltage of 220 volts. Industrial units require connection to a three-phase network with a voltage of 380 volts. It is clear that there is absolutely no point in installing an industrial steam generator in a home bath.

The performance of the device directly depends on its power, so for a small steam room with a volume of 3÷6 m³, a generator with a power of 2÷6 kW is suitable. But if the room has a size of 18 m³, then it requires a steam generator with a power of at least 12 kW.

General advantages and disadvantages of bath steam generators

If you decide to purchase a steam generator, then you should know about their positive and negative qualities, so that the latter do not suddenly become a surprise after the start of operation.

So to positive qualities Steam generators for baths include the following features:

Possibility of automated control of the device using pre-installed programs or from a remote control.
Fast heating of water, respectively, and faster release of steam, which greatly simplifies and speeds up the heating of the steam room. While a Russian stove or heater takes quite a long time to heat up.
Some models of steam generators have a self-cleaning system.
The steam generator produces lighter steam than the hot stones of a heater.
Some models of steam generators have functions for aromatizing it, so for adding essential oils or herbal infusions a special hole is provided. This function will make the evaporation not only pleasant, but also healing.
Unlike a traditional bathhouse, to maintain the desired microclimate, the steam generator does not require a constant supply of water during bathing procedures. Thus, an autonomous steam generator is refilled once at the beginning, and in a device connected to the water supply, it is enough to open the water supply tap, which will flow into the unit constantly. Therefore, you don’t have to think about the stability of the healthy microclimate in the steam room - it will be maintained automatically, with a stable temperature (for example, in the range from 35 to 95 degrees) and humidity set in advance in the control unit. There is an option to set the intervals at which steam enters the steam room.
Ease of choosing the optimal location and installation. Since the steam generator has a compact size and relatively low weight, it is enough to fix it on the wall using brackets.
The steam generated by the steam generators is completely supplied to the steam room without leaving the pipe, which cannot be avoided when using traditional stoves.

Variety of functions modern devices in terms of steam generation allows them to compete with traditional heaters. And in some moments, steam generators even surpass traditional stoves in terms of the quality of the microclimate created.

Prices for stove-heater

stove-heater

However, steam generators also have disadvantages that do not please users, and the following points can be attributed to them:

The high price of appliances, so many people prefer to make them on their own.
Fairly frequent equipment breakdowns.
Dependency on power supply. In addition, the considerable power of the device, amounting to 4÷12 kW, will require significant energy consumption.
Due to the large number of impurities in tap water, even if it is possible to connect to central water supply, it is recommended to fill the unit’s tank with pre-prepared, settled and purified water, or install a high-quality filtration system directly in front of the device.

These disadvantages significantly complicate the operation of automatic devices. However, taking into account the above positive aspects related to the ease of using the bathhouse , and knowing the problems of these devices, you can pay more attention to preventive measures. Naturally, if the high price of such equipment does not bother you.

Installing a steam generator is not particularly difficult. To carry it out, you need pipes designed to supply cold and hot water, the diameter of which will correspond to the size of the device pipes. You will need brackets to hang it on the wall (if this is the intended installation method). To carry out the work, you should prepare a standard set of plumbing and plumbing tools.

Prices and model line of STEAMTEC steam generators

Steam generators for saunas and baths STEAMTEC

To begin with, it is worth bringing classic version installation of a steam generator for a bath. In this diagram you can clearly see how all communications necessary for the full operation of the device should be routed.

1 - Control panel. In this case, it is installed around front door into the steam room, that is, the parameters can be set immediately before the bath procedure.

2 - The temperature sensor is mounted on the ceiling or on the wall, under the ceiling of the steam room, since this is where the highest temperature in the room is observed.

3 - Steam or steam-conducting pipe that delivers the generated steam to the nozzle.

4 - The steam nozzle is connected to the steam pipe. Through it, steam enters the steam room. This element can be used as a piece of pipe passed through the wall.

5 - Water supply pipe supplying water to the steam generator.

6 - Water tap, shutting off the water in case it is necessary to clean or repair the device.

7 - Drainage pipe to drain waste water into the sewer.

8 - Drain valve. This element can be operated by manual control, that is, it is opened and closed manually, or it can be controlled automatically (8a - manual drain valve, 8b - automatic drain valve).

9 - A sewer drain is installed both in the steam room and next to the steam generator.

10 - Safety valve protects the device from excess steam.

11 - Electrical connecting cable through which the device is connected to the electrical network.

12 - A device that supplies infusions or oils to create aromatic vapors. In some models it is included in the steam generator kit, but if it is not available, it can be purchased separately.

13 - Rubber plug.

14 - A sedimentation tank for sediment, which is separated from the water when it is heated to high temperatures. This structural element must be cleaned periodically.

It should be noted that there are some specific moments in installation work that should be clarified in the step-by-step installation instructions for a specific steam generator model.

The first step is to select a location to install the device. Most often it is installed in a dressing room or other dry room located across the wall from the steam room. Here you need to take into account that you will have to make a hole in the wall separating the two rooms for the steam hose. However, if desired, the steam generator can also be installed on the surface of the concrete floor of a dry room.
Next, if you decide to mount it on a wall, you need to make markings, determining where the brackets will be fixed. They can be included with the device or purchased separately. If the steam generator is equipped with an automatic water drain valve, then it must be installed or hung so that the body is slightly inclined towards the drain.
The brackets are fixed according to the marks on the wall. They must be securely fastened, since we must not forget that the steam generator tank will be filled with water, which will significantly increase the total weight of the device.
Once the location of the device on the wall or floor is completely clear, the area where the pipe will pass through the wall is determined. Then it is done (for example, with a drill-crown) through hole, larger diameter pipes 10÷12 mm. A piece of pipe is installed in the hole - a sleeve, with a diameter 3-5 mm larger than the steam pipe. This sleeve will create the necessary reinforcement passage channel of the main steam supply pipe. Fix this segment-sleeve in drilled hole in the wall, you can use polyurethane foam or cement mortar.

The next step is to connect a pipe to the nozzle located in the upper part of the steam generator housing, which will supply the generated steam to the steam room. Its second end is passed through the inserted sleeve, already secured in the hole made. The gap between the sleeve and the pipe can be filled with foam.

It’s good if the steam pipe is flexible - then it will not be difficult to pass it through the wall. If chosen for this purpose PVC pipe or PP, you will have to think about its correct location, and then use welding. However, whatever pipe is chosen, it must be designed for hot water.

Next, you need to install a pipe that will supply water to the steam generator from the water supply or from an autonomous container. When using tap water, a tap is installed at the beginning of the pipe leading from the water main to the steam generator. The water going to the steam generator from the water supply must be passed through a filter. In some models, the water filter is already built into the body of the device, but if it is not provided for in the design, then it is cut into the supply line.

Water supplied to the steam generator, passing through a mechanical purification filter, will be cleared of solid impurities, and only in this form will it reach the heating element. In this way, the service life of the steam generator can be significantly increased, reducing the risk of its breakdown. For these purposes, standard filter flasks with polypropylene cartridge elements are quite suitable.

If the water in the plumbing system is too hard and It has a large amount of impurities, it is recommended to install two filters nearby - mechanical cleaning and softening (for example, ion exchange). In this case, you will soon be able to see how dirty the water is entering the house by paying attention to the condition of the water filter inserts.

Prices for water pipes

water pipes

Since the cartridges in the filters will have to be changed frequently, and for this it is necessary to shut off the water in this section of the pipeline, two taps are installed on both sides of the filters.

In some cases, a special sensor or reducer is installed between the first filter and the tap that regulates the water supply to control the pressure in the water supply system.

Water treatment problems should always be on the radar of the owners of a house or apartment!

It would probably be wrong to install filters only in front of the steam generator. By and large, water must undergo complete purification and disinfection at the entrance to a house or apartment. Read more about the stages of water treatment and the recommended ones in a special publication on our portal.

The next step is to the nozzle located on the opposite side of the device from the supply nozzle tap water, a drainage pipe is connected to drain the waste liquid. The second edge of the pipe is connected to the sewer main or taken to the street. To prevent used water from flowing under the bathhouse, a drainage chute is laid for it at a slope.

Now that the pipes are installed, a control panel is connected to the device, which is fixed in convenient location on the wall. In some models, the installation of the control panel is provided directly in the steam room, but basically they are fixed next to the steam generator and the desired temperature, as well as steam supply intervals, are programmed on them.
Then the signal cable of the temperature sensor is connected and led into the steam room. The sensor itself is fixed in the upper part of the wall or on the ceiling of the steam room, that is, in the most “hot” area.
Lastly, a device is attached to the apparatus that supplies aromatic substances for vaporization. It is mounted on outer wall steam room, connecting to it a pipe connected to a container into which the flavored liquid is poured. In addition, a pipe supplying steam from the generator is connected to the device. Passing through the poured tinctures or oils, the steam is saturated with medicinal aromas and enters the steam room through the nozzle. It turns out that steam can enter the steam room directly from the generator, or through a flavoring installation.
After making sure that all connections are reliable, you can begin testing the steam generator. First, the container of the device is filled with water. To do this, open all the taps located on the supply line. A water level sensor installed inside the device will automatically stop its supply at the right time.
After filling the container with water and making sure that there are no leaks at the connections, you can connect the device to the power supply and set the necessary parameters on the control panel. Then, you need to wait for the water to heat up and steam to appear and again carry out a control inspection of the connections. The fact is that when the temperature rises, the connecting nodes may behave slightly differently than in a cold state. If necessary, possible errors are eliminated and a tightening is performed.
If everything is back to normal and no signs of leaks are detected, you can proceed to full operation of the device.

So, as you can see from the description presented above, having a certain understanding of the installation sequence and possessing basic skills in working with plumbing equipment, any owner should be able to install a steam generator without much difficulty. Of course, in doing so, he must rely on the instructions supplied with the device, since any model has its own specific features designs.

Prices for popular steam generators

Steam generators for saunas and baths

At the end of the article, there is a very interesting video showing the experience of the owner’s first “communication” with the purchased steam generator received from Aliexpress. Perhaps it will help someone make the right decision about purchasing such a device.