Install a Steam Shower

⭐ Introduction

Installing a steam shower is an excellent way to bring a spa-like experience into your home. It involves fitting a specialised shower system that produces steam, allowing you to enjoy the relaxing and therapeutic benefits of steam bathing. Homeowners often choose to install a steam shower when renovating a bathroom, upgrading an existing shower enclosure, or creating a new wet room space.

Steam showers offer health benefits such as improved circulation, muscle relaxation, and skin cleansing, making them a popular luxury addition. However, installing one requires careful planning and skilled plumbing work to ensure safe operation and compliance with UK standards.

🔧 What the job involves

Fitting a steam shower mainly entails installing a steam generator unit connected to a specially designed steam-proof enclosure. The steam generator boils water to produce steam, which is then piped into the shower enclosure.

Key elements include:

• Steam generator installation: Placement of the unit (often outside the bathroom) with proper ventilation and drainage for condensation.
• Water supply connection: The generator needs a cold water feed, sometimes a drainage point, and electrical supply.
• Steam enclosure sealing: The shower area must be fully enclosed and sealed to keep steam contained, using steam-resistant materials.
• Control panel fitting: A control unit is installed inside or near the shower for temperature and duration settings.
• Ventilation setup: Adequate bathroom ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture-related damage.
• Safety features: Overflow valves, pressure relief systems, and electrical safety compliant with UK Wiring Regulations (BS 7671).

Because the work involves electrical and plumbing connections, it must meet Building Regulations where relevant.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Initial enquiry: Contact a Gas Safe-registered or qualified plumber/installer with experience in steam showers to discuss your requirements.
2. Site survey and consultation: The installer visits to assess your bathroom layout, water and electrical access, ventilation, and suitable steam enclosure options.
3. Quotation: You receive a detailed quote outlining labour, materials, timescale, and warranty details.
4. Booked installation date: Agree on a suitable date, ensuring the room is accessible and any necessary preparatory work (e.g., tiling, electrical rewiring) is complete.
5. Installation day: The installer fits the steam generator, connects water and electrical supplies, seals the shower enclosure, fits the controls, and tests the system.
6. System handover: Demonstration of operation, explanation of maintenance requirements, and you receive any certification or compliance documents (e.g., Part P electrical certification).
7. Aftercare: Arrange any follow-up servicing or register warranties with manufacturers.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: Typically £500–£1,000+ depending on complexity and installer rates.
• Steam generator unit: £700–£2,000 depending on size and features.
• Shower enclosure modifications or new build: £300–£1,500 to create or modify a fully sealed steam enclosure.
• Electrical work: £200–£600 for installing suitable circuits/controls, including Part P certification.
• Plumbing materials: Pipes, valves, drainage, £100–£300.
• Disposal of old fixtures (if applicable): £50–£150 depending on local charges.
• Additional ventilation work: £150–£500 if an extractor fan or dehumidifier is needed.
• Certification and paperwork: Usually included in labour cost but confirm with your installer.

Example total for a straightforward install can range from £2,000 to £4,000.

📊 What affects the price

• Access: Difficult or restricted areas add time and cost.
• Complexity: New plumbing or electrical circuits versus simple upgrades.
• Size and specification of steam generator: Larger or advanced units cost more.
• Bathroom condition: Need for remedial work like tiling or waterproofing.
• Building Regulations compliance: Ensuring all electrical/plumbing work is certified.
• Ventilation requirements: Additional installation for moisture control.
• Location: Prices vary across UK regions.
• Timeline: Urgent or out-of-hours work may attract premiums.

⏱ How long does it take?

• Straight swap of existing shower with steam setup: 1–2 days.
• New build steam shower enclosure with full plumbing and electrical: 3–5 days or more.
• Larger or more complex installations requiring structural work or full wet room conversion can take longer.

Delays are also possible if the bathroom needs other refurbishment work before steam shower fitting.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing a steam shower is not generally a DIY job for most homeowners. It requires:

• Skilled plumbing,
• Certified electrical work compliant with Part P and BS 7671,
• Correct sealing and waterproofing,
• Knowledge of relevant Building Regulations.

Poor installation risks water damage, electrical hazards, and poor steam performance. Unless you are a qualified tradesperson, hiring a Gas Safe-registered and Part P-certified installer is strongly recommended.

💰 Typical UK price range

Steam shower installations in the UK typically fall between £2,000 and £5,000 including VAT. This range covers varying sizes of steam generators, bathroom conditions, and installer rates. Always ask for a detailed written quote before proceeding.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Ensure your bathroom has adequate ventilation or plan to install an extractor fan.
• Choose a shower enclosure that is fully sealed and made from steam-resistant materials.
• Confirm your installer is Gas Safe-registered and Part P-certified for electrical work.
• Discuss warranty, servicing, and maintenance requirements for your steam generator.
• Keep all invoices, certificates, and paperwork related to the installation for future reference and house insurance purposes.
• Prepare the room by removing personal items and ensuring easy access for the installer.
• Consider timing your installation when you can avoid heavy bathroom use to allow drying and curing times post-install.
• Regularly service the steam generator as advised by the manufacturer to prolong its life and maintain safety.

By planning carefully and using a qualified professional, a steam shower can become a safe, relaxing feature in your home for many years.