So so sorry to read this.
ETA: I didn’t read the updates about the OP’s horse before finding my own post and adding this. I am so sorry for the OP. Sending hugs. If I had seen, I would have started a new thread.
Not to dig up a zombie thread, but in case this helps anyone…
I used my new Haygain today for the first time and I am kicking myself for ever having gone down the knock-off route.
AscotUK steamer:
No scientific studies proving efficacy
Lightweight - both steam generator and unit
No spikes on manifold (just a hose with holes, essentially)
Lid closes loosely
No temperature gauge
No/minimal steam released upon opening afterwards
Hay not very warm at edges, not warm at all in center
Hay dry at center
Hay smells like regular hay
Horse had persistent asthma flare after using and an EIPH flare within three months of beginning use (previously had gone 1.5 years between EIPH episodes on soaked hay.)
Affordable (full bale unit is approx $550 USD)
Haygain steamer:
Scientific studies proving efficacy
Unit and steam generator weigh a ton (but still manageable - I have the One)
Spiked manifold (to penetrate hay)
Lid closes tightly (although they say steam may escape, it didn’t)
Has temperature gauge
Billow of steam upon opening afterwards
Hay hot to touch on periphery, and after cooling, warm in center
Hay wet at center (even though Haygain says it may not be)
During and after steaming, noticeable sweet smell of hay commented on by myself, BM, and trainer
Only time will tell if we get some longevity between episodes on this new, adequately steamed hay.
Expensive (smallest unit is approx $1100 USD, full bale unit is over $3k USD)
Hope this helps anyone considering steamers. The one positive I will say about the Ascot is that it is cheap. You’d have to pay almost six times the price for an equivalent Haygain model. I am just immensely impressed with the Haygain over the Ascot.
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Bought my Haygain in fall 2018 because I had a colic prone horse. Made a huge difference until I lost him bc of a pasture accident. I use it close to daily. Bermuda hay is often the only grass hay available in my area, and I’m uncomfortable feeding it without steaming first. That said, even when I’ve been able to find orchard, I still steam it. It’s just part of the routine now. I take really good care of the steamer it and it’s holding up well so far 
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