A steam generator is the heart of any hammam and steam sauna. The correct power selection determines whether the steam will be stable and dense, and how quickly the steam room will reach its operating mode. This guide explains how to choose a Harvia steam generator based on the volume of your steam room, without overpaying or risking buying an underpowered model.
How a steam generator works
A steam generator heats water to boiling and delivers steam to the steam room through a steam nozzle. In a hammam, a temperature of approximately 40–50 °C is maintained with high humidity. Modern Harvia models automatically control water levels and evaporation, and versions with Wi-Fi (XW series) allow you to turn on the steam generator from your smartphone via the MyHarvia app.
The main thing is the volume of the steam room
The steam generator's power is selected based on the volume of the steam room in cubic meters. Each Harvia model has an official range – follow it:
- 3–17 m³ — 9 kW models (Harvia HGX90XW and HGD90XW);
- 8–28 m³ — 15 kW model (Harvia HGD150XW).
If the volume of the steam room falls on the border of two ranges, choose the more powerful model. The same applies to hammams with natural stone or marble finishes and rooms with large glass areas: such surfaces take longer to heat up, so it's better to choose a model with extra capacity.
See the full range in the "Steam Generators" section.
What's included and what you'll need
Harvia steam generators include a steam nozzle, a control panel with a cable, a safety valve, and a manual drain valve. Additionally, customers often purchase:
- Automatic drain valve — automatically drains and flushes the tank after a session to reduce limescale buildup;
- Harvia Autodose — automatic fragrance dispenser for steam;
- Eucalyptus fragrance — eucalyptus scent, created for steam baths and hammams.
Installation and maintenance
The steam generator is installed in a dry technical room next to the steam room and connected to water, sewerage, and the electrical network. Models from 9 kW are connected to a three-phase 380V network — electrical installation must be performed by a qualified specialist. The main factor for durability is limescale prevention: regularly flush the tank, and in regions with hard water, use a water softener filter.
Frequent questions
Can a steam generator be installed in an apartment?
Yes, if there is space for a steam cabin, ventilation, waterproofing, and sufficient dedicated electrical power. For a small cabin, a 9 kW model at the lower end of its range is suitable.
How does a steam generator differ from a combi heater?
A steam generator is the primary source of heat and steam for a hammam. Combi heaters are electric heaters for Finnish saunas with an integrated steam generator: they provide dry heat with the option to add soft steam, rather than a hammam mode.
How long does a steam generator last?
With regular tank flushing and soft water, it will last for many years. Original Harvia spare parts (heating elements, sensors, valves) are available from us in Tashkent.
We'll help you choose
Aquatherm is the official Harvia dealer in Uzbekistan. Send us the dimensions and finish type of your hammam — we will help you choose a steam generator and accessories, advise on installation, and deliver across Tashkent and all of Uzbekistan.