The device described in this manual is a ThermaSol AF Series Steam Generator, designed for use in residential steam showers. It is a core component of a steam shower system, responsible for producing steam for therapeutic and relaxation purposes.
Function Description
The ThermaSol AF Series Steam Generator heats water to produce steam, which is then delivered into a sealed shower enclosure through a steam head. The system is designed to create a steam bath environment for personal wellness. The generator is controlled by an in-shower control unit (not included with the generator itself but mentioned as a necessary component), allowing users to manage steam output and other features.
Important Technical Specifications
The AF Series generators come in various models, each with different electrical requirements and maximum room size capacities:
- SSA-ACR:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 3.5
- Amps: 17
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 10
- Breaker: 20
- Electrical: NEMA 6-30P
- Max. Room Size: Acrylic Shower
- SSA-84:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 6.0
- Amps: 28
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 10
- Breaker: 30
- Electrical: NEMA 6-30P
- Max. Room Size: 84 CU.FT.
- SSA-140:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 8.0
- Amps: 37
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 8
- Breaker: 40
- Electrical: NEMA 6-50P
- Max. Room Size: 140 CU.FT.
- SSA-240:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 10
- Amps: 46
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 8
- Breaker: 50
- Electrical: NEMA 6-50P
- Max. Room Size: 240 CU.FT.
- SSA-395:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 11
- Amps: 55
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 6
- Breaker: 60
- Electrical: Hardwire
- Max. Room Size: 395 CU.FT.
- SSA-575:
- Input Voltage: 208-240VAC
- KW Rating: 15
- Amps: 69
- Phase: 1
- Wire: 4
- Breaker: 90
- Electrical: Hardwire
- Max. Room Size: 575 CU.FT.
All models require a 240V power source and copper wiring only, with specific wire sizes and breaker ratings as listed. The minimum wire temperature rating is 90°C, Type THHN. Each generator should be wired to its own separate breaker.
The generator can be installed up to 50 feet away from the steam shower. The control cable provided is 50 feet in length.
Usage Features
- Steam Generation: The primary function is to produce steam for a shower enclosure.
- Room Sizing: Generators are sized based on the cubic feet of the shower area. The model number indicates the maximum cubic feet capacity (e.g., SSA-240 for 240 cubic feet). For ceiling heights exceeding 8 feet, a larger unit size is recommended for every foot over 8 feet, up to a maximum of 10 feet.
- Aromatherapy: The steam head is designed with an aromatherapy well, allowing users to dispense steam-safe essential oils for an enhanced experience. The steam head should be mounted with the well facing up.
- Control System Integration: The generator connects to an in-shower control unit (e.g., SWM-2 or PDM) via a data cable, enabling user interaction and system management.
- Safety Warnings: The manual emphasizes several safety precautions:
- Consult a physician before use, especially for individuals with health conditions (pregnant, elderly, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, intoxicated, or not in good health).
- Steam is hot; avoid touching the steam head or steam emitting from it for up to an hour after use to prevent severe burns.
- Do not fill the aroma reservoir when the unit is "ON."
- Do not use ThermaSol aromatherapy oils or skin care products without consulting an allergist or doctor.
- Do not use the steam room under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Be aware of slip-and-fall hazards in the shower.
- Exit the steam room if feeling uncomfortable, dizzy, faint, or sleepy.
- Do not use the steam room if under 16 unless supervised by an adult.
- Generators are for indoor use only and not for space heating.
Maintenance Features
- Water Line Debris Screen: A pre-installed water line debris screen is included in the water inlet on the generator to prevent silt or other materials from entering the unit. The manual recommends flushing the water line into a five-gallon pail before making the final connection to remove any remaining debris.
- Drain Pan Requirement: A drain pan (purchased separately) is required under the unit for all SSA installations. The 3/4" drain connection on the pan must be plumbed to an approved drain.
- Accessibility for Servicing: The generator must be installed in a location that offers easy accessibility for servicing. "Power Flush" maintenance is recommended every 1000 minutes of use, implying a need for periodic cleaning or flushing of the unit.
- In-line Water Filter (Recommended): An in-line water filter is recommended on the water inlet line to further protect the generator from impurities.
- Installation for Serviceability: The manual recommends installing unions on all rigid pipe lines for ease of removal and serviceability if required.
- Silicone Sealing: When installing the steam head, supplied silicone should be used to adhere the steam head to the wall, sealing out water. A 24-hour drying period for the silicone is recommended. An O-ring lubricant is also provided to assist with steam head installation.
Installation Guidelines
- Location: The generator should be placed as near as practical to the steam shower (up to 50 feet away) in a dry, non-combustible, well-ventilated space with 6" clearance around the unit. Ideal locations include closets, vanity cabinets, climate-controlled attics, or basements. It must be upright, accessible, and on a level surface with all connections on top. The access panel must be unobstructed.
- Prohibited Locations: Do not install the generator inside the steam room, outdoors, or in unheated attics or locations where water could freeze.
- Shower Enclosure: Walls, ceiling, and floor materials must be suitable for steam, and all penetrations through the vapor barrier must be completely sealed. Acrylic walls must be steam-rated by their manufacturer.
- Ceiling Slope: When constructing the ceiling, add a slope of 1"/foot to improve steam room efficiency.
- Water Supply: Connect a 3/8" NPT line with a brass shut-off valve to the existing cold water line using copper pipe or a stainless steel water supply flex connector. Use copper or brass fittings only; do not use galvanized, PEX, or PVC tubing. Do not plumb the pressure relief valve into the steam line.
- Steam Line: Use 1/2" brass pipe or copper tubing from the generator to the steam head rough-in fitting. The steam line can run up and then down, or horizontally, but never down and then up, to avoid creating steam traps. Pitch/angle steam lines back towards the generator or towards the steam room to prevent condensation pooling. Insulate the steam outlet piping if the run exceeds 10 feet or is exposed to cold areas. Do not install any valve in the steam line.
- Steam Head Placement: Install the steam head 24" from the floor or bathtub rim and 6" from any corner, as far as possible from typical bathing positions and the in-shower controller. Secure the pipe firmly to the wall to prevent movement during steam head installation.
- Electrical Wiring: All wiring must comply with National/Local Electrical Codes. Use copper wire only. Turn off all electricity at the main breaker panel before installation.
- Control Cable: Route the data cable through electrical conduit if possible. Do not pinch, nail, staple, wedge, bind, or wrap the data cable around the hot steam line. Connect the data cable to both the generator and the control unit before turning on power.
The manual emphasizes the importance of professional installation for electrical and plumbing work and advises consulting qualified professionals for steam room construction details. It also includes a product registration card and warranty information, highlighting a 3-year "In-Home" limited warranty for AF Series generators (covering parts and labor) followed by a lifetime factory limited warranty (covering parts, with the customer responsible for removal/installation and shipping). Warranties are contingent on proper use and installation and are voided by improper installation, unauthorized service, or use in non-residential settings.
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