KOHLER K-5559, K-5531, K-5525, K-5526, K-5529 Installation Manual

Installation and Care Guide

Steam Generator

K-5525, K-5526, K-5529,

K-5531, K-5539, K-5543

K-5559

M product numbers are for Mexico (i.e. K-12345M)
Los números de productos seguidos de M corresponden a México
(Ej. K-12345M)
Français, page “Français-1”
Español, página “Español-1”

1230487-2-C

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS.

IMPORTANT! When installing and using this electrical equipment, basic safety precautions should
always be followed, including the following:

WARNING: Risk of explosion. For dual steam generator installations, do not interconnect steam
outlets. A separate steam line must be provided for each steam outlet.

CAUTION: Risk of electrocution. Disconnect the electricity to the working area at the main
breaker panel before performing these installation steps.

CAUTION: Risk of injury. To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this product
unless they are closely supervised at all times.

WARNING: Risk of personal injury.

•

The wet surfaces of steam enclosures may be slippery. Use care when entering or leaving.

•

The steam head is hot. Do not touch the steam head and avoid the steam near the steam head.

•

Prolonged use of the steam system can raise excessively the internal human body temperature and
impair the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature (hyperthermia). Limit your use of
steam to 10 - 15 minutes until you are certain of your body’s reaction.

•

Excessive temperatures have a high potential for causing fetal damage during the early months of
pregnancy. Pregnant or possibly pregnant women should consult a physician regarding correct
exposure.

•

Obese persons and persons with a history of heart disease, low or high blood pressure, circulatory
system problems, or diabetes should consult a physician before using a steambath.

•

Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a steambath since some
medications may induce drowsiness while other medications may affect heart rate, blood pressure
and circulation.

WARNING: Risk of personal injury. If you become uncomfortable while taking a steam bath, you
should turn off the unit. Cool off with the shower, open the door, or exit the unit.

WARNING: Risk of personal injury. DO NOT consume alcoholic beverages or take
medications/drugs prior to or when using the steam bath. Alcohol and drugs affect mental
judgement, greatly increase the risk of hyperthermia, and inhibit bodily functions such as heartbeat
and respiration, resulting in potentially dangerous effects.

WARNING: Risk of allergic reaction. Before adding any oils, aromatic therapies, or skin care
products to the aromatherapy well, make sure they will not cause an allergic reaction to the user.

CAUTION: Risk of personal injury. Do not plumb a trap in the steam line or plumb the pressure
relief valve into the steam line. Plumbing the pressure relief valve into the steam line can be
hazardous if the steam outlet is capped.

CAUTION: Risk of personal injury or property damage. Avoid coming in contact with the water
tank and/or steam discharge line while the steam generator is operating or shortly after shutdown.
Wear eye protection and protective clothing when servicing the steam generator. The steam
generator operates at high temperatures.

CAUTION: Do not use for space heating purposes.

IMPORTANT! Hyperthermia occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several

degrees above the normal body temperature of 98.6° F (37° C). The symptoms of hyperthermia include an
increase in the internal temperature of the body, dizziness, lethargy, drowsiness, and fainting. The effects of
hyperthermia include:

•

Failure to perceive heat

•

Failure to recognize the need to exit the steambath

1230487-2-C 2 Kohler Co.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (cont.)

•

Unawareness of impending risk

•

Fetal damage in pregnant women

•

Physical inability to exit the steambath

•

Unconsciousness

IMPORTANT! Recommended feedwater quality should be: Hardness - less than 60 ppm (3.5 gpg); Total
Alkalinity - greater than 150 ppm (8.8 gpg). Calcium scale buildup from hard water can prevent proper

operation of the steam generator and may cause premature failure. To ensure proper operation, the
feedwater supply should be tested prior to operating the steam generator. If feedwater quality is not
within the specified limit, contact a reputable water treatment company for treatment options.

IMPORTANT! Maximum inlet water pressure is not to exceed 70 psi (483 kPa).

NOTICE: Use this unit only for its intended use as specified in this manual. DO NOT use attachments

not recommended by Kohler Co.

NOTICE: Do not apply excessive heat to the steam generator connections when you solder connections.
Do not apply flux or acids directly to the steam generator, as damage to the seals, plastic components, and
trim finish may result. Do not apply petroleum-based lubricants to the steam generator components, as
damage may result.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

Tools and Materials

Drill w/ 1-1/4" &
2-1/2" Hole Bit

Propane Torch

Hacksaw or Tube Cutter

Solder

Plus:

• Drain/spill pan

• 1/2" copper tubing

• Assorted copper fittings

• Wire Cutters or Wire Strippers

• Conventional woodworking tools and materials

• 45 and 90 degree elbows

• Support Blocks (heat resistant)

Sealant Tape

Before You Begin

NOTE: The instructions in this installation guide cover both single and dual steam generator installations.

IMPORTANT! Provide an access panel of adequate size to permit removal of the steam generator for

servicing.

Inspect the product for any shipping damage. Do not install the unit if it is damaged. Contact the
Kohler Co. Customer Care Center using the information on the back of this guide.

Follow all local plumbing and electrical codes. All electrical work should be done by a qualified
electrician.

Disconnect all power before making any electrical connections.

Kohler Co. 3 1230487-2-C

Before You Begin (cont.)

Connect the steam generator to water supply lines that meet all applicable plumbing codes.
For custom installations, locate the steam head 6″ (152 mm) from the floor and 4-1/2″ (114 mm)

from the inside of the threshold.

1230487-2-C 4 Kohler Co.

3/4" NPT Pressure Relief

Green LED
Diagnostic Light

6-1/8"
(156 mm)

6" (152 mm)
17-5/8" (448 mm)
19-1/8" (486 mm)

3-5/16"
(84 mm)

3/8" NPT
Water Inlet

1-5/16"
(33 mm)

2-1/8"
(54 mm)

2-1/16"
(52 mm)

8-3/8"
(213 mm)

Minimum required access panel is
24" (610 mm) L x 15" (381 mm) H.

Allow for a minimum of 12" (305 mm) of
space around all sides of the steam
generator.

Allow for the drain/spill pan.

KOHLER® drain pan (shown with support
blocks) sold separately.

Field Wiring
Service Box

Control
Cable Input

Support
Blocks

5/8" (16 mm)

1/2" NPT
Steam Outlet

3/8" NPT
Drain

1"
(25 mm)

14-1/4"
(362 mm)

1-7/8"
(48 mm)

11-1/4"
(286 mm)

3/4" NPT
Drain Pan Outlet

8-1/8"
(206 mm)

Roughing-In

NOTE: Use the dimensions in the diagram above for reference when determining the placement and
clearance for the steam generator.

NOTE: Unions are supplied for the steam, drain, and water inlet connections.

2-1/8"
(54 mm)

10-1/8"
(257 mm)

2"
(51 mm)
Min

3/4"
(19 mm)

Kohler Co. 5 1230487-2-C

Water Inlet

Shut-Off Valve

Install copper
union in water
feed line.

Single Installation

Water Feed to
Steam Generator

Pressure
Relief Valve

Install copper union as close
as possible to steam generator.

Pitch toward
the generator.

Tee

Recommended
In-Line Water
Filter

Field Service
Box

Control Cable
Input

Add tee to the
water feed line for
dual installations
(optional).

Do not run pipes
down and then up.

Steam Trap

1. Determine the System Layout

WARNING: Risk of property damage. Allow a minimum of 12″ (305 mm) of air space around the
steam generator at all times. This provides an area for the heat generated by the unit to dissipate.

Steam
Head

Drain Pan

Dual Installation

IMPORTANT! The minimum required access panel is 24″ (610 mm) L x 15″ (381 mm) H.

NOTICE: The steam generator will perform best when installed as close as possible to the steam head.

The unit should be installed within 25’ (7.62 m) of the steam head.

NOTICE: Large drops in the steam line can increase condensation and reduce the amount of steam
produced. For optimum performance, do not install the steam generator above the level of the steam head.

IMPORTANT! This steam generator must only be installed in the upright position as shown. The pressure
relief valve location must be on top.

IMPORTANT! Contact Kohler Co. Customer Care Center if this steam generator will be installed at an
elevation over 6000’ (1829 m) above sea level. For installation at high elevations the Customer Care Center
will provide instructions on disconnecting the fast start coil.

NOTE: For optimum performance, use 45° elbows in the steam line when possible.

Determine the location of the steam generator. Allow for a 12″ (305 mm) air gap on all sides of the
generator. Allow for a drain pan.

Choose a drain pan appropriate for your installation (KOHLER drain pan is sold separately).
Determine the location of the water supplies and steam lines. Ensure clearance between the steam

line and any surrounding surfaces.
Install this steam generator in a heated space to prevent freezing.

1230487-2-C 6 Kohler Co.

Determine the System Layout (cont.)

Ensure this steam generator is installed level.
Allow for access to the steam generator after installation.
Select the steam generator size based upon the steam room volumes identified below.

NOTE: For every additional foot of ceiling height above 8’ (2.4 m) choose the next largest steam
generator.

Steam Generator Steam Room Volume - Cubic Feet (Cubic Meters)

5 kW 84 (2.4)
7 kW 112 (3.2)
9 kW 240 (6.8)
11 kW 317 (9.0)
18 kW 550 (15.6)
22 kW 634 (18.0)

Kohler Co. 7 1230487-2-C

Single Installation

Dual Installation

2" (51 mm) Min

2" (51 mm) Min

Provide clearance
from wall.

Wall Stud

6" (152 mm) from Floor

2-1/2" (64 mm)

Provide
clearance
from wall.

12-1/2" (318 mm) Min

6" (152 mm) from Floor

2-1/2" (64 mm)

2. Determine the Location of the Steam Hardware

WARNING: Risk of personal injury. Do not install the steam control user interface outside the
steam enclosure. The user interface must be installed within the enclosure to allow the sensors to
regulate the temperature and control the flow of steam.

WARNING: Risk of scalding. Do not block the steam head or locate it near a seat or bench, as the
steam head is hot during operation and may scald the user if touched.

IMPORTANT! Do not install the control directly above or in-line with the steam head.

NOTICE: When installing the control kit, allow room in the control cable for a drip loop. The drip loop

will discourage moisture from following the control cable to the steam generator.

Wall Stud

NOTE: All dimensions should be taken from the inside of the shower. Refer to the Steam Control Kit
Installation Guide for more dimensional and installation information.

Dual steam heads can be installed on opposite walls to improve steam distribution.
Determine the steam head location. Locate the steam head(s) 6″ (152 mm) above the shower floor

and a minimum of 4-1/2″ (114 mm) away from the enclosure door threshold. The steam head
location should be within 25’ (7.62 m) of the steam generator.

For single steam head installations, determine the steam control user interface location on the wall
opposite the steam head.

For dual steam head installations, determine the steam control user interface location on a different
wall than the steam heads. Locate the user interface as far from the steam heads as practical.

Locate the steam control user interface 60″ (1524 mm) above the floor of the shower.
Make sure there is adequate clearance between the steam lines and any surrounding surfaces.

3. Install the Electrical Supply

Model K-5525-NA K-5526-NA K-5529-NA K-5531-NA K-5539-NA K-5543-NA

Generator Size 5 kW 7 kW 9 kW 11 kW 18 kW (2 - 9

Required Electrical Service

Generator
Dedicated
Circuit #1

Generator
Dedicated
Circuit #2

240 V, 40 A,
50/60 Hz

NA NA NA NA 240 V, 60 A,

240 V, 50 A,
50/60 Hz

240 V, 60 A,
50/60 Hz

240 V, 60 A,
50/60 Hz

kW)

240 V, 60 A,
50/60 Hz

50/60 Hz

22 kW (2 - 11
kW)

240 V, 60 A,
50/60 Hz

240 V, 60 A,
50/60 Hz

1230487-2-C 8 Kohler Co.

Install the
Electrical
Supply
(cont.)

Product
Electrical Rating

240 V, 27 A,
60 Hz

240 V, 36 A,
60 Hz

240 V, 45 A,
60 Hz

240 V, 46 A,
60 Hz

240 V, 45 A,
60 Hz

240 V, 46 A,
60 Hz

WARNING: Risk of electrocution. Disconnect the electricity to the working area at the main
breaker panel before performing these installation steps.

NOTICE: Each steam generator requires a dedicated circuit. Dual steam generator installations require a
second dedicated circuit.

Follow all local electrical codes. All electrical work should be done by a qualified electrician.
In the chart above, find the electrical supply requirements for your steam generator.
Install the appropriate electrical supply (install two dedicated supplies for dual steam generator

installations).

Kohler Co. 9 1230487-2-C

Single Installation Dual Installation

Pressure
Relief Valve

Water Inlet

Steam Outlet

Maintain a 12" (305 mm)
minimum space around
the units.

12"
(305 mm)

Control
Cable
Input

Drain Pan

3/4"
(19 mm)
Min

Drain (install per
applicable codes.)

4. Install the Steam Generator

WARNING: Risk of property damage. Allow a minimum of 12″ (305 mm) of air space around the
steam generator at all times. This provides an area for the heat generated by the unit to dissipate.

NOTICE: For optimum performance, install the steam generator as close as possible to the steam head.
The steam generator must be installed within 25’ (7.62 m) of the steam head.

Install the desired drain pan at the steam generator location. Kohler Co. recommends using a
KOHLER drain pan.

IMPORTANT! If a KOHLER drain pan is NOT being used, construct the support blocks using
heat-resistant material.

Position the steam generator on the support blocks.

1230487-2-C 10 Kohler Co.

Water Inlet

Tee

Recommended
In-Line Water
Filter

Shut-Off Valve

Copper Union

To Optional
Second Generator

Copper Union

Pitch toward
the generator.

Do not run pipes
down and then up.

Steam
Head

Steam Trap

Single Installation

2" (51 mm) Min

Provide clearance
from wall.

6" (152 mm) from Floor

Provide clearance
from wall.

Wall Stud

2-1/2" (64 mm)

Dual Installation

5. Install the Water Supply and Steam Line

WARNING: Risk of personal injury or property damage. Do not plumb the pressure relief valve
into the steam line. Plumbing the pressure relief valve into the steam line can create a hazard if the
steam line is blocked or obstructed.

WARNING: Risk of scalding. Do not plumb a trap, shut-off valve, or pressure relief valve into the
steam line. Plumbing the pressure relief valve into the steam line can be hazardous, if the steam
outlet is capped.

WARNING: Risk of scalding. Do not connect the drain valve outlet to the steam line. Ensure there
are no valleys or dips in the steam line.

2" (51 mm) Min

Wall Stud

2-1/2" (64 mm)

12-1/2" (318 mm) Min

6" (152 mm) from Floor

WARNING: Risk of personal injury or property damage. Do not direct the pressure relief valve to
the enclosure. In the event the pressure relief valve activates, the hot water may spray causing
burns to the user and/or damage to the enclosure. Therefore, the pressure relief valve should be
directed to an area where damage will not occur from contact with hot water and should conform
to national and local plumbing codes.

Install the Water Supply Line to the Generator

NOTE: For all NPT threaded connections, use pipe tape or pipe sealant. Do not overtighten the fittings.

Connect to an existing cold water line, and run a 3/8″ cold water line to a shut-off valve before the
in-line water filter.

Before final connection to the steam generator, flush out the water supply line into a large pail. This
removes any debris, silt, sand, or other material that may be in the line. Make sure the filter screen
is in place in the water inlet tube.

Install 3/8″ copper tubing with a union fitting (supplied with the steam generator) located as close
as possible to the steam generator.

Kohler Co. 11 1230487-2-C

Install the Water Supply and Steam Line (cont.)

Connect the water supply line to the steam generator.
Turn on the water supply, and fill the steam generator with water. Check for leaks.
Check that the water drain valve on the generator is closed.

NOTICE: Steam generators are equipped with an automatic shut-off. The water will stop after the unit is
full. If the water flows out of the steam outlet, shut off the water and consult the ″Troubleshooting″ or
contact the Customer Care Center using the information located on the back of this document.

If the water supply line exceeds 10’ (3 m) or is exposed to cold areas, insulate the piping with
appropriate insulation.

Install the Steam Line

WARNING: Risk of scalding. Do not locate the steam head near a seat or bench. Scalding may
occur upon contact with the steam head.

NOTICE: Never run the steam line down, then up. Running the steam line down and then up will create
a steam trap, blocking the flow of steam. The steam line should run up to the steam head from the steam
generator, at a pitch of 3/8″ (10 mm) to 1/2″ (13 mm) per 12″ (305 mm) of pipe.

NOTICE: Provide clearance between the back wall and the elbow leading into the steam housing. The
elbow must not contact any wall material.

NOTICE: Provide clearance between the steam line and surrounding surfaces.

NOTICE: Do not apply excessive heat to the generator connections when you solder connections. Do not

apply flux or acids directly to the steam generator, as damage to the seals, plastic components, and trim
finish may result. Do not apply petroleum-based lubricants to the steam generator components, as damage
may result.

NOTE: For all the threaded connections, use thread sealant tape or pipe sealant. Do not overtighten the
fittings.

NOTE: Use 1/2″ copper tube for the steam line.

NOTE: When possible, use 45° elbows. Performance will be increased when 45° elbows are used.

NOTE: Always install a union fitting (supplied with the steam generator) as close as possible to the steam

generator.

Add blocking behind the desired steam head location.
Install and secure a 1/2″ NPT elbow to the blocking directly behind the desired steam head

location.
Install a temporary 1/2″ copper nipple that extends through the finished wall.

Model Product Information
Model K-5525-NA K-5526-NA K-5529-NA K-5531-NA K-5539-NA K-5543-NA

Weight 29 lb (13.2

Water Supply 3/8″ copper

Steam Line 1/2″ copper

Pressure Relief
Valve (supplied)

Drain Line
Valve

kg)

line

line
3/4″ NPT

female thread
3/8″ copper

line

29 lb (13.2
kg)

3/8″ copper
line

1/2″ copper
line

3/4″ NPT
female thread

3/8″ copper
line

29 lb (13.2
kg)

3/8″ copper
line

1/2″ copper
line

3/4″ NPT
female thread

3/8″ copper
line

29 lb (13.2
kg)

3/8″ copper
line

1/2″ copper
line

3/4″ NPT
female thread

3/8″ copper
line

48 lb (21.8
kg)

3/8″ copper
line

1/2″ copper
line

3/4″ NPT
female thread

3/8″ copper
line

48 lb (21.8
kg)

3/8″ copper
line

1/2″ copper
line

3/4″ NPT
female thread

3/8″ copper
line

1230487-2-C 12 Kohler Co.

Install the Water Supply and Steam Line (cont.)

Kohler Co. 13 1230487-2-C

240 VAC Source

N

120V

Neutral Bus
(In Breaker Box)

L2

120V

L1

240V

Equipment Ground

Breaker Box

Typical Two-Pole
Circuit Breaker
without GFCI

L1

240V

L2

Electrician to provide

suitable strain relief cable.

L1 (Black)

Generator

Ground
(Green)

L2 (Black)

6. Connect the Electrical Supply

WARNING: Risk of electrocution. Disconnect all power before performing these installation steps.

NOTICE: All electrical work should be done by a qualified electrician.

NOTICE: All electrical wiring must be done in accordance with local codes.

NOTICE: Each steam generator requires a dedicated circuit. Dual steam generator installations require a

second dedicated circuit.

IMPORTANT! Make sure the water supply to the steam generator is turned on before connecting the
electrical supply.

Connect the Power

Turn off all electricity to the working area at the main circuit breaker panel.

Connect a 240 VAC electrical line to the wires labeled ″L1,″″L2,″ and the green (ground) wire
coming out of the steam generator field service box located on top of the steam generator.

Confirm the ground connection has been made in the field service box.
Close the field service box.
Turn on the main power.
The function light should display a green light. If the function light is not green, consult the

″Troubleshooting″ section or contact the Customer Care Center using the number located on the
back of this document.

1230487-2-C 14 Kohler Co.

Warning Label

7. Complete the Installation

Remove the adhesive backing from the warning label provided and apply the label to the wall of
the shower or steam enclosure.

Install the steam housing and steam head following the instructions packed with the Steam Control
Kit.

Install the steam control following the instructions packed with the Steam Control Kit.
To operate the steam control, follow the operating instructions provided with the Steam Control

Kit.

Troubleshooting

CAUTION: Risk of personal injury. Troubleshooting steps involving internal wiring or electrical
connections should only be performed by a qualified electrician.

NOTE: The troubleshooting steps below only apply to the steam generator itself. For issues involving the
steam control refer to the ″Troubleshooting″ section for the Steam Control Kit.

NOTE: For service parts information, visit your product page at www.kohler.com/serviceparts.

This troubleshooting guide is for general aid only. For service and installation issues and concerns, call
1-800-4KOHLER.

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

1. The green LED light is

not on, and there is no
steam from the steam
head.

A. No electrical power at the steam

generator.

B. Circuit breaker is in the ″Off″

position.

C. Circuit breaker is not the correct

size.

D. Electrical connection in the

steam generator field service
box is loose.

A1. Reset the electrical power at the

circuit breaker.

A2. Have a qualified electrician verify

that 240 V of power is present at
the steam generator.

B. Turn on the electrical power at the

breaker.

C. Verify the circuit breaker is the

correct size. Replace the circuit
breaker if it is the wrong size.

D. Turn off all electrical power to the

steam generator. Have a qualified
electrician open the steam
generator field service box and
check/repair the connections.

Kohler Co. 15 1230487-2-C

Troubleshooting (cont.)

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

2. The green LED light is on,

but there is no steam from
the steam head.

3. There is a continuous

flow of water from the
steam head. Water flow
during the power clean
cycle is normal.

4. Steam is coming out of

the steam head and the
control is shut off.

A. The water is turned off. A. Turn on the water supply.

B. The inlet screen is plugged. B. Remove and clean the inlet screen.
C. Excessive back pressure caused

by too long a run of piping or
too many 90° elbows.

D. Water blockage due to a steam

trap in the steam line. A steam
trap is caused by steam line
piping running down from the
steam generator and then back
up to the steam head.

E. The steam control is not

connected.

A. Internal steam generator

components are not working.

B. The water supply is incorrectly

connected to the steam
generator.

A. Elevations over 6000’ (1829 m)

above sea level can cause water
to boil at lower temperatures.

C. Move the steam generator closer to

the steam head or use 45° elbows.

D. Change the steam pipe to slope

down from the steam head to the
steam generator.

E1. Check the wiring connections

according to the steam control
installation and care guide.

E2. Use the troubleshooting kit

attached to the steam generator to
troubleshoot connection problems.

A1. Shut off the water supply, and

drain the water from the steam
generator. Close the drain valve.

A2. Partially open the water supply

shut-off valve.

A3. Allow the water to gradually fill

the steam generator tank (may take
several minutes). If the water
continues to flow from the steam
head, repeat A1 above.

A4. Fully open the water supply

shut-off valve.

A5. On models with power clean

option only: If water continues to

flow from the steam head, run the
power clean cycle.

A6. If water continues to flow from the

steam head, contact the Customer
Care Center using the information
on the back of this guide.

B. Review this manual, and if

necessary reconnect the water
supply to the proper location.

A. At elevations over 6000’ (1829 m)

above sea level contact Kohler Co.
Customer Care Center for
instructions on disconnecting the
fast start coil.

Warranty

KOHLER Steam Generator
THREE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Kohler steam generator units manufactured after September 15, 2001, are warranted to the original consumer
purchaser to be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship during normal residential usage

1230487-2-C 16 Kohler Co.