Iron with a steam generator: features, selection and repair of equipment

Devices with steam generators have a rather high price when compared with conventional models. Therefore, before purchasing, people try to carefully study the characteristics of the devices, weigh all the pros and cons of this product, and then decide whether to buy it. It is important to familiarize yourself with the aspects of using such an iron in order to choose a quality and safe option that will serve its owner for many years.

Before choosing a device with a steamer function, it is necessary to study its design in order to know exactly how the model works. The device consists of several elements: an iron, a boiler, a hose (which securely connects the iron and the boiler), the power supply cable. The device is quite simple and similar to a regular iron. It has a comfortable grip, a good sole and mode control. But since there is no built-in liquid container in the device, it has a lighter weight than the steam equivalent.

Boiler - capacity of plastic or metal. It has a reservoir for the liquid and the heater, capable of making steam from water. You can adjust the feed rate and temperature of steam using a special panel, which is located on the body.

The principle of operation of such an iron is quite simple. A liquid is placed in the tank. After that, you must turn on the device in the grid. The water heats up in six to eight minutes, then turns into steam with six percent moisture, which moves to the bottom of the appliance with a hose, and then comes out of the holes. Hot air is able to penetrate the structure of the fabric extremely deeply, so it smoothes even the most powerful folds.

This type of irons is an excellent option for people who very often and a lot of iron. They are incredibly powerful, convenient in operation, have a fairly high ironing speed and a large capacity for liquid, which allows you to iron things for a long time without having to add water.

Like any other household appliances, irons with steam generators have negative qualities:

• high price;
• heavy weight of the whole structure;
• the models are massive, so some of them are awkward to store.

To choose a product that will last for many years and become a real helper, you need to take into account some factors. First, you should carefully examine the sole. It is better to choose a strong, wear-resistant, durable. It should have a high resistance to temperature extremes.

Bad option - aluminum outsole. It may appear various defects, scratches. It has a short lifespan if the iron is used very often. The most good and high-quality model will have an aluminum alloy sole with ceramics, teflon or steel. Such coatings can protect the device and make it more reliable and robust.

We offer a few more recommendations on choice.

• It is important to consider in advance whether there is a need for additional moistening of the fabric or it will be more convenient to work with dry steam. If you need the first option, you should purchase a device that has a built-in steam generator. In the second - the device with a portable, which will be installed separately.
• You should read the instructions to understand what water the iron will work. If you definitely need to handle the liquid, you will have to purchase special equipment. It is better to immediately buy a model with filter cartridges that filters the water yourself.
• It is worth paying attention to whether the handle is convenient. It is better to choose a device whose handle fits well in the hand, since otherwise the use of the iron will be uncomfortable. It is worth trying the device in action: take it and hold it two or three times in the air, imitating the ironing process. If the handle seems thick or very narrow, you need to look at other options.
• There are models with a special button that should be kept in the process of ironing so that steam will continue to form. They are not very convenient, so it is not recommended to purchase them. It is better to choose a device in which you can switch modes.

In order for the device to serve for a long time, it is necessary to learn how to use it correctly. If you treat equipment carelessly, you can spoil it, as well as harm your health. You should use the iron carefully, be careful not to let the device fall. After the end of the work, it is not necessary to immediately wrap the iron with a wire and put it in a storage place; you should wait until it cools completely. To save electricity, you should first iron those garments that need low temperatures.

When the device slides on the fabric, you need to try to move in one direction. In order to smooth out qualitatively synthetic things that are not able to withstand too high temperatures, you need to use a thermostat, and it is better to iron them wet. It is not necessary to place excess liquid in the tank, as there must be a certain amount of space so that steam can form. When the indicator "Steam" goes out, you should pour water into the boiler.

Today there are a large number of manufacturers offering interesting and worthy options for equipment. Among the popular and sought after you can see the German, Italian and Turkish models.

We offer you a review of the most decent models.

• Philips GC 9222 - a device that has a very original and stylish design. The model consists of two parts, which are connected with a flexible hose. The steam generator produces steam, maintains pressure and temperature. The device is quite powerful, able to iron and steam two to four layers of fabric and sterilize children's clothing.

The housing has a separate compartment where the electrical cord and hose are placed. A feature of this iron is that it does not have a thermostat. Built-in processor helps keep the temperature at a safe level for clothing.

• Tefal GV8461 - high-quality model, which has not too high cost. The wonderful device will cope well with complex folds and smooth any fabric. The sole is made of metal-ceramic, has a palladium coating. Self-cleaning function allows the hostess to easily rid the iron of dirt.

• Braun IS 5043 WH has a simple scheme of work, extremely quickly solves even the most difficult problem, quietly smooths very crumpled things. The device is practical, strong and efficient. The steam is distributed evenly, so the fabric is smooth and smooth. The sole is durable, it slides easily and pleasantly, it is not capable of damaging the fabric. A capacious fluid container makes ironing even easier.
• DeLonghi VVX ​​1420 - An option that allows its owner to be as neat and tidy as possible. This steam station will help to quickly smooth out large amounts of clothing or bedding. For an ideal type of fabric, you do not need to put a lot of effort, the device will do everything on its own. Steam will smooth every, even the strongest unevenness. The function of vertical steam helps to put in order a suit, light airy dress and even massive curtains.

• Electrolux EDBS 2300 - convenient and efficient iron, not too expensive, with decent technical characteristics. Arranged quite simply, is compact, comfortable and lightweight. The rapid heating of the model and the production of the right amount of steam will help the hostess not to waste too much time.

• Loewe Premium Power Station - The German model, rather small, does not have any additional devices and large tanks for liquids. It is issued stylishly and esthetically, at storage will take not enough place. Built-in compact boiler. With the help of iron things can be ironed not only horizontally but also in a vertical position. This model allows you to return the attractive appearance of your favorite jacket, without removing the thing from the hanger.
• Rowenta - A German company that manufactures quiet and efficient models that are able to smooth out any thing qualitatively and quickly. They are made of reliable materials, so they have a long service life. Ideal for those who need a decent assistant.

• Beper (Italy) - high-quality devices that can perfectly iron and dry clothes. They have a fairly large boiler capacity, so there is no need to refill the liquid during ironing. The brand is extremely popular and has won the hearts of many hostesses.
• Silter Super mini 2035 (Turkey) - the model is easily transferred, is very compact. Easy to use, can be stored anywhere. Smoothes even the strongest creases and very wrinkled clothes. It has high quality and long service life.

It is necessary to know about some variants of malfunctions and how to eliminate them by hand, if necessary, be able to quickly repair the iron.

• The electric device is ready for use, but when you press the button, steam is not supplied. This means that the button should be replaced.
• If the steam generator does not receive warm air, then it is worthwhile to carefully examine the heating element, fuse, solenoid valve and clean the steam discharge pipe. If any of the elements is damaged, you need to get rid of the scale that is in the boiler, and then replace the thermostat or hose that allows the steam to go to the iron.
• If the pressure switch does not work correctly, a multimeter should be used. With it, you need to check whether the parts are intact. If there is a breakdown, then it is necessary to replace the parts and install a working microswitch.

• If pressing the buttons on the control panel gives nothing, you need to check whether the wiring is intact. Most often it needs to be replaced.
• The low level indicator of the liquid level is constantly flashing in the tank, which means you should carefully follow the water level. If it is normal, the reason lies in the sensor of the volume of water. It needs to be replaced.
• At the bottom of the device you can observe a slight pressure of warm air - it is worth examining the regulator. If it is broken, purchase a new one.
• If water flows from the sole, it means that the owner of the product has too often used the steam boost function for a small amount of time. Liquid accumulates and flows out. It is worth giving the device a rest.

Quite often, many owners of such irons may experience a situation in which problems arise due to some kind of mechanical damage. A person may incorrectly use the device or some parts will wear out in the device. In this case, you can easily notice the fault. For example, the cord is cut off, the sprinkler is clogged or the thermostat breaks down (the iron often overheats). In such cases, you do not need to fix the damage with your own hands at home, but rather to turn to professionals who will perform high-quality repairs.

On how to clean the sole of the iron from soot, you will learn from the following video.