The comprehensive guide
Kohler steam generators have become quite popular due to their reliability and high quality. The manufacturer produces some of the best generators in the market today.
For a long time, Kohler has been the industry leader in manufacturing bathroom equipment. They have a broad array of equipment ranging from showers to sinks and fossettes, and in recent times, steam generators. Steam generators churn the water into vapor and release it through a nozzle.
Steam generators offer users a premium shower experience. They not only enhance the ambiance of your bathroom; they also help in opening pores on the surface of the skin. These devices can turn your bathroom into your private sauna.
So, why take regular showers when you can get the premium experience using a Kohler steam generator? Let us take a look at five of the best Kohler steam generators.
1. KOHLER K-5529
Specifications
- Brand: Kohler
- Wattage: 9 kilowatts
- Dimensions: 20 x 6.5 x 12.5 inches
- Voltage: 1 Volt
- Weight: 20 pounds
Features
If you are searching for a premium-quality machine, the Kohler K-5529 is perfect. It is a robust unit made from top-grade Stainless steel. The solid exterior frame is not only sturdy but also rust-proof.
The bare stainless-steel exterior gives the Kohler steam generator a neat industrial finish. Powered by a 9KW 1V power supply, the generator will start producing steam just 1 minute after being turned on. The internal thermoregulator will ensure no dips in temperature, making it a consistent and reliable machine.
To achieve integration across their product line, Kohler has ensured that the K-5529 is compatible with Kohler DTV+ showering systems. The steam generator requires an additional control kit and a drain pan. These items are sold separately. The remote control unit has an easy-to-use interface with intuitive one-touch functionality. It also integrates a smart timer that can turn the generator on and off after a specific duration.
Unlike most steam generators, the Kohler K-5529 is relatively easy to maintain. With its in-built self-cleaning technology, you can have the generator clean with just the push of a button. Kohler offers a generous three-year warranty with the purchase of the unit.
PROS
-
Convenient to use- the unit has self-cleaning technology.
Three-year product warranty.
Corrosion-free aluminum exterior.
CONS
-
Some users complain that their new units do not work
The generator is loud.
2. KOHLER K-5525
Specifications
- Brand: Kohler
- Wattage: 5 kilowatts
- Dimensions: 20 x 6.5 x 12.5 inches
- Voltage: 1 Volt
- Weight: 28.7 pounds
Features
The Kohler K-5525 bears many striking similarities with the K-5529 model beyond just its appearance. It retains the same sleekly designed stainless-steel exterior body with an industrial aluminum aesthetic.
The exterior is built to withstand rust conditions. It also offers enough insulation that the steam generator can be physically touched while in use without causing scalding. Another intuitive safety feature of the unit is that it has a 20-minute automated shut-off mechanism triggered if the reset button is not pressed.
The Kohler K-5525 is also a self-cleaning unit. With just the push of a button, the unit will automatically clean itself. The feature makes for an efficient hands-off approach to cleaning the steam generator. You will have steam ready in just one minute, thanks to the powerful 5KV power supply. The unit is compatible with Kohler DTV+ showering systems.
With the unit, you get an intuitive input and control system. The remote is easy to use, and the user interface is quite friendly. It offers one-touch functionality for several functions such as temperature control, timer reset, power on, and power off.
You get 20 minutes' worth of steam with just a single gallon/4.55 liter of water. The unit is thereby cost-effective compared to most steam generators in the market.
PROS
-
Intelligent and easy-to-use controls.
It enjoys perfect integration with the Kohler DTV+ showering systems.
Durable rust-resistant exterior.
CONS
-
Drain pan and control kit sold separately.
3.KOHLER K-5533
Specifications
- Brand: Kohler
- Wattage: 13 kilowatts
- Dimensions: 21.63 x 11.63 x 13.75 inches
- Voltage: 1 Volt
- Weight: 52.9 pounds
Features
The Kohler K-5533 is one of the most robust and powerful stream generators in the market. It is ideal for large bathrooms and saunas. A top-grade aluminum exterior houses the enormous unit.
It is rust-proof and exceptionally durable.
Like most Kohler steam generators, the K-5533 has an insulated exterior that makes it safe to touch even when the unit is in use. The Kohler steam generator has the same standard automated self-cleaning feature found in most Kohler generators. It gives the user a hustle-free maintenance process.
When you purchase the unit, you get device ready compatibility with the DTV+ showering system. The unit runs on a 13KW supply where power supply is a concern. It ensures that your steam is ready just one minute after the device has been turned on.
The control kit is sold separately from the central unit. It features intelligent one-touch functionality and intuitive and easy-to-use controls for a comfortable experience. With the unit, Kohler provides a three-year warranty.
PROS
-
The product comes with a lengthy 3-year warranty.
Kohler K-5533 is compatible with DTV+.
It has an inbuilt automated self-cleaning mechanism.
CONS
-
The control kit for the Kohler K-5533 is sold separately.
The steam generator may be impractically large for a standard-sized bathroom.
4. Kohler K-1713
Specifications
- Brand: Kohler
- Wattage: 15 kilowatts
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 15.5 x 14.5 inches
- Voltage: 1 Volt
- Weight: 36.5 pounds
Features
The Kohler K-1713 is what you would typically expect in the steam generator design. It is the basic unibody stainless steel design that Kohler is well renowned for making.
If you happen to have a small bathroom with reasonably limited space, then the steam generator will be ideal for you. The unit is also a budget-friendly alternative to many steam generators.
The compact Kohler K-1713 enjoys all the perks of a standard Kohler steam generator. The only downside is that it is not practical for large bathrooms. Unlike most Kohler steam generators, the K-1713 has a steam spout that enables it to channel a steam jet to any desired direction.
The Kohler steam generator has an inbuilt automated cleaner that is quite intuitive, improving the overall functionality of the product. The unit requires a Rite-Temp balance mechanism, which functions as the primary control. The mechanism is sold separately from the central unit.
Note that the Rite-Temp balance mechanism is not part of DTV+. It means that the model is not compatible with the DTV+ line. Like most steam generators manufactured by Kohler, the unit has a generous three-year warranty.
PROS
-
The unibody design is sleek and durable
It heats water in less than 75 seconds.
It has an automated self-cleaner.
CONS
-
The control mechanism is sold separately.
The unit is difficult to service.
5. KOHLER K-5531
Specifications
- Brand: Kohler
- Wattage: 11 kilowatts
- Dimensions: 20 x 6.5 x 12.5 inches
- Voltage: 1 Volt
- Weight: 28.7 pounds
Features
The Kohler K-5531 is ideal for you if you have a mid-sized bathroom. This robust steam generator is covered in a sleek aluminum exterior with a clean, unibody design. The unit is rust-resistant and sturdy built. It is pretty durable.
This design differs slightly from other Kohler steam generators. The exterior is glossy and has a clean finish. Most features of this unit are pretty standard and similar to Kohler steam generators. It includes popular features such as automated self-cleaning technology.
It also features compatibility with the rest of the DTV+ product line. Like most products, the controls are sold separately from the central unit. The controls have one-touch functionality for all the most essential and basic functions. These functions include power settings, temperature controls, and the reset timer.
With the Kohler K-5531, you get a fast-heating device. The steam will be ready just a minute after the dev
ice has been turned on
PROS
-
The machine has a three-year warranty.
It is ideal for mid-sized and large bathrooms.
The machine is compatible with DTV+.
CONS
-
The controls are sold separately.
It may be too large for most bathrooms.
Why are Steam Generators so Popular?
Steam generators are becoming an essential addition to many people’s bathrooms. They offer a tone of benefits to the users. Here are some of the reasons why many people are purchasing steam generators:
Ambiance
Steam showers help create a unique ambiance in which you can relax and clear your mind. It is an excellent way of managing stress and relaxing after a hard day's work.
Benefits to the skin
Steam showers help open up skin pores. It clears the skin of trapped sebum, improving the aeration on the epidermis, leaving your skin looking healthy. Steam showers also help rid the skin of acne.
Improving your circulation
Inhaling steam as you shower can help open up clogged sinuses and help you breathe easier.
A Spa Alternative
A steam shower is not only more effective than visiting an actual spa; it is also more accessible to many people. Installing a steam generator in your bathroom could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run.
Essential Maintenance for Kohler Steam Generators
Steam generators, much like any other machinery, need to be maintained frequently. Maintenance will ensure that the machine performs optimally. It also increases the lifespan of the machine.
Here are some essential maintenance practices that any steam generator owner needs to perform:
Using water-softening materials
Hard water can be damaging to the mechanisms of a steam generator. A generator exposed to hard water undergoes rapid scaling on the pipes. If scaling continues over a prolonged period, the machine will cease to function.
You can easily counter the effects of rapid scaling by using an auto-flush system. An auto flush system is a machine that automatically unclogs the tubes of the machine after use.
Frequently descale your steam generator.
The steam generator you use should undergo descaling at least once every three months. You can do this by purchasing a descaling solution and running it through the machine. It should be followed by a thorough rinsing before use.
If the internal components of the system are complicated, you can have the unit cleaned by a professional.
What to Consider When Buying a Steam Generator
For a first-time buyer, selecting the right steam generator for your bathroom can be an arduous task, owing to the complex nature of these machines.
We have come up with a guide to help you select the best equipment for your bathroom.
The size of your bathroom
The dimensions of your bathroom should influence the type of generator you decide to purchase. You do not want a generator that takes up too much space or produces too much steam for the size of your bathroom.
Installation and Servicing
The unit you purchase should be easy to install. You should also select a unit that can be serviced easily. Avoid old and discontinued steam generators. Always confirm with the manufacturer whether the unit you want to purchase is still in production.
Anti-hammer feature
It is a unique feature that ensures that the steam generator runs quietly. A noisy unit can ruin your time in the shower and provide a less than relaxing experience.
Automation
Automation makes steam generators easier and more intuitive for a better user experience. Features such as self-cleaning mechanisms and automated shut-off features can make your experience much better.
Conclusion
Kohler has, in recent times, emerged as an industry leader where the manufacturing of steam generators is in concern. They make top-brand, and premium equipment that is not only reliable but also has excellent functionality as well.
Steam generators have also increasingly become popular. With so many Kohler steam generators in the market, you might struggle to select the best machine for your bathroom.
This definitive review scrutinizes Kohler's top five products and helps you purchase the best equipment for your bathroom or sauna.
