One or another type of household appliance is found in every home. Washing machine, iron, toaster - nowadays there are a lot of different devices that can significantly make human life easier and help in solving certain problems, be it washing, cooking or other procedures.
But not everyone understands why a steam generator is needed. What do they understand: not everyone even knows what kind of mechanism this is. We invite you to understand this topic in as much detail as possible.
Types of steam generators and their features
A steam generator (steam station) is not something bulky and complex, as the name might suggest, but a fairly compact device that includes a familiar iron and a container with a heating element.
The essence of its operation is simple: water is poured into a special reservoir inside a plastic box, heated at a temperature of 120-160 degrees, converted into steam and pushed out under pressure to the surface.
There are several types of such devices:
- steamer for smoothing curtains, clothes hanging on a hanger, as well as washing windows;
- high efficiency iron (ironing device);
- a device connected to a steam mop or vacuum cleaner for cleaning rooms.
Caring for your household appliance
Caring for the device begins with proper storage and operation . The steam generator should be stored in a dry place at room temperature, clean.
If the device is rarely used, water must be drained from the tanks after use.
Choice of water
When water is heated to create steam, scale may form. It can lead to deterioration of the device and poor quality work.
And also to leaving stains on the surfaces being cleaned, and even to breakdown of the steam generator itself.
Using purified water will help prevent scale formation . You can find out how to choose the right water to fill the tank here.
Anti-scale
As a result of heating low-quality water in a steam generator, scale may form. The “anti-scale” option, which is available in a number of models, will help prevent its occurrence. Otherwise, regular cleaning will not be avoided.
You can find out how to deal with scale yourself in the following article.
How do budget models differ from expensive devices?
Many manufacturers in their lines of household appliances - including steam generators - have models of varying prices: from very expensive to very cheap. The difference between them is the number of useful options that speed up the work and make it more comfortable.
For example, a large reservoir allows you to run to it with a glass less often, the self-cleaning function means you have to carry out a painstaking cleaning procedure less often, and so on.
Repair: what can you do yourself?
In situations where the steam generator fails at the most crucial moment, you can try to fix the problem on your own. Whether it is possible to cope with a breakdown depends on the cause .
The most common include:
Malfunction | Ways to solve the problem |
When the steam is ready to be supplied, it does not come out when the button is pressed. | Button replacement required |
The control panel does not respond to button presses | The wiring needs to be checked. Replace if necessary |
No steam supply | The problem may concern the heating element, solenoid valve, fuse, or be the result of a clogged steam pipe, by cleaning which it is necessary to begin searching for the cause of the malfunction |
Low water level light | If the level is normal, then the sensor itself requires replacement. |
In addition to those listed, there may be other breakdowns that lead to disruption of the device . More information on how to repair a steam generator at home can be found in the feature article.
Not every problem in the operation of a steam generator can be dealt with on your own. In case of complex breakdowns, it is recommended to contact a service center.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a device, you should consider the following important characteristics.
Power
It is the power that determines what maximum temperature the device can heat up to, how much steam will be produced and how much productivity will increase.
The functionality of the device is related to these three indicators.
The actual purpose and consumption should be taken into account. For most models, the power varies in the range of 0.8 to 2.5 kW. While cheaper ones consume less than 1.2 kW, multifunctional devices consume slightly more.
IMPORTANT! The greater the power of the device, the more electricity costs will be.
Steam supply method
There are only 3 options for generating steam: through heating the boiler, thanks to the instant generation function and through periodic replenishment of the tank.
A special element, a heating element, is heated in the boiler. During this process, the amount of generated steam increases, but it is better to use such a steam generator model if you have a large amount of work in front of you. Disadvantage: 10-15 minutes are spent heating the water.
With instant steam integration, the liquid that was poured into the heating element is literally immediately converted into steam.
The downside is the slow steam delivery, but you can live with that.
The third option requires monitoring the water level and constantly adding it to the steam generator. There can be not one, but two tanks: a heating element is always attached to the bottom of one of them.
The very jet of steam is supplied under pressure. With modern devices, the pressure can be in the range of 2-7 bar. The speed is within the range of 80-150 g/min.
Water tank
The larger it is, the higher the performance of your steam generator will be (more steam, duration of continuous operation). But this will also make the structure itself significantly heavier.
The minimum volume is 500 ml, the optimal is a liter and a half for a family of 3-4 people. You can monitor the liquid level using a special indicator (this function is available on expensive models), or “the old-fashioned way” - through the transparent walls of the case.
The shape of the tank can be:
- remote (which is connected to the “sole” using steam pipes);
- built into the body (the most common option, making the device more mobile);
- double (2 containers are installed: one with a heater, water is poured through the other).
Anti-scale protection
Outdated models, unfortunately, do not have such a function, but modern steam generators are excellent at coping with a scourge called scale. Cartridges are hidden inside the case - replaceable blocks filled with a special composition to clean moisture from contaminants.
Some devices have an automatic self-cleaning system: the owner is given a signal.
For cleaning, the appropriate mode is activated. The duration of the procedure is 2-3 minutes.
Operating mode
Steam intensity and temperature are the most important operating parameters, so it is important to adjust them properly. Some models have retained mechanical controls, but now electronic controls are increasingly being installed on steam generators.
Heating time
Of course, it is much more convenient when the device heats up in a matter of minutes. The average heating time range is from 2 to 10 minutes. But keep in mind: volumetric generators require more time.
Purpose of acquisition
Modern technology is multifunctional. Steam generators are not always used exclusively for ironing clothes.
With their help, it is possible to carry out a whole range of cleaning measures:
- disinfection;
- removing soap scum;
- fight against limescale;
- carpet cleaning;
- removing stains, etc.
Depending on the purpose for which the equipment is selected, a model with suitable equipment is determined.
Ironing clothes
If you only plan to iron clothes for family members, you can get by with a not too powerful device . This will allow you not to overpay for unnecessary functions and save energy consumption.
For heavy stains, you should pay attention to the steam boost function, which will help not only straighten the crumpled item, but also clean it. Another useful feature is the ability to vertically process products.
Carpet cleaning
It is recommended to clean the carpet with a steam generator together with using a vacuum cleaner. Water and cleaning agent are poured into the steam cleaner and the nozzle is passed over the surface of the pile.
It is recommended to perform the treatment several times for best results . After steam treatment, the carpet is cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.
Cleaning a carpet using a steam generator allows you to remove stains, dust, get rid of mites and other microorganisms, and also carry out disinfection.
Tile and bathroom cleaning
You can clean kitchen tiles and other greasy surfaces using an attachment with a special brush . When treating contaminated areas, the brush is periodically moistened in a solution of water and detergent.
After passing over the surfaces with a steam generator, the remaining contamination is removed with a napkin.
Washing windows and glass
Washing windows with a steam cleaner makes cleaning easy and simple. For better results, it is convenient to use a special nozzle that looks like a small nozzle. In this case, the steam temperature is set to 95°C . Higher temperatures are not recommended as they increase the risk of glass damage.
The treatment is first carried out from a distance of 0.3 m. The device can gradually be brought closer to the glass. The same attachment that is suitable for cleaning windows can also be used for mirrors. It is not recommended to wash windows with a steam cleaner during the cold season, as this creates a significant temperature difference that the glass may not withstand.
Split system care
Cleaning of the air conditioner is carried out with a sufficiently powerful steam generator with high pressure to treat the internal structure. This cleaning not only removes dust, but also removes germs.
A household steam cleaner cannot always effectively cope with stubborn dirt, for example, on the blades - it simply does not have enough power.
The best steam generators in terms of price and quality
Morphy Richards 333200, 33201, 33202
True English quality.
Thanks to its high power (the device is in the top ten for this indicator), steam penetrates the fabric as deeply as possible, helping to smooth out even old and deep creases on clothes and bedding. In this case, it does not matter at all how many layers of clothing lie under the soleplate of the iron.
The steam supply is adjustable; the tank holds just under 2 liters of water.
The power cord is stored in a special compartment. The warranty is given for 24 months.
Specifications:
- power: 3000 W;
- steam boost: 230 g;
- weight: 3.66 kg;
- overall dimensions (HxWxD): 32.5x29x39 cm.
Advantages:
- heats up in 1.5-2 minutes;
- electronic control;
- indication of readiness for work;
- vertical steaming;
- self-cleaning.
Flaws:
- short power cord;
- medium-sized water tank;
- price.
Philips GC7933/30 Perfectcare Compact Plus
No complicated settings: convenient, fast, perfectly smooth.
If you accidentally get distracted from the process, your equipment will not ruin your item thanks to modern OptimalTEMP technology: no marks or even shine will remain on the clothes. Forgot your iron on your ironing board? No problem: automatic shutdown will work and the risk of burning the fabric will be reduced to zero.
The steam generator itself is small in size and easy to move across the ironing surface.
Heats up in a couple of minutes.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- highest pump pressure: 6.5 bar;
- steam boost: up to 450 g
- voltage: 220–240 V.
Advantages:
- ProVelocity;
- compact dimensions;
- vertical steam function;
- OptimalTEMP;
- instant heating;
- descaling system.
Flaws:
- steam often comes with a delay;
- heavy iron.
Philips GC8930/10 Perfectcare Expert Plus
The manufacturer guarantees that the improved model of the Philips steam generator will help you cope with a whole pile of laundry. The so-called steam boost will straighten out all the folds and creases in your linen before your eyes, refreshing not only your clothes, but also curtains, towels and other household items. The system contains a cyclonic chamber with OptimalTEMP technology.
There is no risk of burning the fabric, there is no need to independently regulate the temperature.
Specifications:
- steam supply rate: maximum 120 g/min;
- power: 2100 W;
- maximum pressure: 7 bar;
- Voltage: 220–240 V.
Advantages:
- fast heating;
- non-stick surface;
- steam supply is controlled automatically;
- electronic adjustment.
Flaws:
- price;
- massive steam generator.
Tefal GV9071 Pro Express Care
Thanks to the model, you will be able to take care of things efficiently and carefully, without fear of ruining your favorite dress or scarf. A double anti-scale protection system is installed (it is assembled using a special removable collector). Electronic control: select the appropriate one from the existing 5 settings for the type of fabric.
The “lock” system - snapping the iron onto the base - will not allow it to tip over.
The cord rewinds automatically.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- steam pressure: 7.5 bar;
- volume: water tank 1600 ml.
Do you trust the Tefal brand?
Not really
Advantages:
- high power;
- lime drops do not get on clothes;
- the iron will not fall off the base;
- high pressure;
- good power;
- the collector can be washed.
Flaws:
- no individual instructions;
- heavy construction;
- takes up a lot of space.
Braun IS 3022 WH Carestyle 3
Convenient ironing device.
The modern 3D Eloxal sole coating is resistant to damage. The reservoir holds 2 liters of liquid.
There is a cleaning time counter: as soon as the system determines that it is time to rid the mechanism of internal contaminants, a light on the case lights up.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- maximum steam pressure: 5.5 bar;
- steam hose length: 1.6 m.
Advantages:
- very light iron;
- good stream of steam;
- affordable price;
- Convenient iron holder on the base.
Flaws:
- sometimes water is added to the steam;
- inconvenient neck for filling liquid;
conclusions
Household steam generators can greatly facilitate the housewife’s work in ironing complex fabrics and cleaning large rooms.
When choosing a device, special attention should be paid to the following factors:
- the type of steam generator is selected taking into account the real need;
- the power and intensity of the steam flow largely determine the efficiency of the equipment;
- often the main selection criterion is price , and according to this indicator, economy, mid-price and premium categories are distinguished;
- Only products from trusted manufacturers meet all requirements for reliability, performance and safety.
Choosing the right steam generator will ensure worry-free operation for a long time.
Review of the best models costing up to 30,000 rubles
Morphy Richards S Pro 332100 332102
A faithful assistant for quality care of things.
A powerful jet of steam allows you to smooth things almost perfectly, without leaving the slightest wrinkle. The water container is large and allows you to stay away from homework longer. The ceramic sole glides gently over the laundry.
Anti-scale system prevents scale formation and increases service life.
Specifications:
- width: 420 mm;
- height: 290 mm;
- depth: 200 mm;
- steam supply: 140 g/min.
Advantages:
- many functions;
- long cable;
- automatic shutdown;
- good power.
Flaws:
- no anti-drip system;
- There is no attachment for delicate fabrics.
Braun IS 7156 BK Carestyle 7
It will allow you to save time on what really matters.
Model with patented anodized sole: 2 times stronger than steel. It glides without problems, leaves no marks on the fabric, does not stick, wear resistance is excellent.
The functionality includes 2 preset intelligent modes, the steam supply is increased.
There is vertical steaming, the tank holds 2 liters of liquid. Turns off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Specifications:
- product color: black;
- power: 2400 W;
- maximum pressure: 7.5 bar;
- continuous steam: 125 g/min.
Advantages:
- instant descaling;
- iCare safe mode;
- gentle ironing;
- fine steam
Flaws:
- Expensive;
- no display.
Braun IS 7155 WH
Maneuverable and easy to use steam generator.
Powerful steam output and instant crease removal: this iron just begs to be picked up. By refilling the water container once, you can iron a huge mountain of laundry quickly and easily.
The steam is evenly distributed throughout the soleplate of the iron, and there is a dry ironing function. Looks very nice in appearance.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- steam: 7.5 bar;
- steam impact consumption: 500 g/min.
Have you used Braun brand products?
Not really
Advantages:
- Turbo mode;
- many holes on the sole;
- powerful;
- Ultimate FastClean.
Flaws:
- sometimes there are stains on clothes;
- The water container is difficult to remove.
Kitfort KT 922
A device that you want to buy.
Compact and useful, which combines the functions of both an iron and a steamer, and both the first and the second work flawlessly. The power cord is 1.6 meters long, there is anti-scale protection and a self-cleaning function.
This steam generator can be used to clean upholstered furniture and curtains.
Specifications:
- weight: 2.3 kg;
- parameters: 334x240x200 mm;
- steam intensity: 50 g/min;
- power: 2400 W.
Advantages:
- spray function;
- dry ironing;
- heats up in 40 seconds;
- weighs little.
Flaws:
- short power cord;
- works only from the network.
Philips GC9682/80 PerfectCare Elite Plus
An ultra-light iron model with a compact container and a large water tank.
Intelligent steam supply without the risk of burning the fabric. The water tank is removable and washable.
For safe and convenient movement, a Carry-lock is provided.
It weighs very little. There is an automatic system shutdown system.
Specifications:
- steam boost: up to 600 g;
- weighs 0.8 kg.
Advantages:
- single setting;
- DynamiQ sensor;
- Easy De-calc Plus.
Flaws:
- price;
- small tank.
Philips GC7920/20 PerfectCare Compact Plus
Fast and convenient, cheap and high quality. This model produces more steam and reduces operating time.
No creases - just good results. The design is compact, making it easy to move the steam generator from place to place on the ironing board. There is also vertical steaming: for curtains or furniture, or coats on a hanger.
Specifications:
- maximum pump pressure: 6.5 bar;
- steam boost: 430 g;
- removable water tank 1.5 l.
Advantages:
- Carry-lock fixation;
- ProVelocity technology;
- no need to adjust temperature;
- controlled steam supply.
Flaws:
- takes a long time to heat up.
Iron sole
To choose a steam station, you need to consider the characteristics of the materials from which the sole is made. The most common ones are:
- Aluminum. Models with such a working surface are inexpensive, but the coating is easily damaged by fasteners. The iron can leave shiny marks on clothes.
- Stainless steel. The material is reliable and durable, quickly heats up to the optimal temperature and cools down just as quickly after switching off.
- Ceramics. The surface does not wrinkle textiles, heats up quickly, but cools down slowly, and is easily cleaned of dirt. Ceramics are fragile and break when the device is dropped.
- Teflon. The devices are easy to use, durable, effective, but expensive.
- Titanium. Good coating for ironing. The surface heats up quickly, does not spoil laundry, and lasts for a long time. The only drawback is the heavy weight.
The efficiency and safety of using the device depends on the material of the sole.
Review of the best models with vertical steaming
Philips GC8950/30 PerfectCare Expert Plus
A model designed for your convenience and comfort.
The convenient and ultra-light design is complemented by an adjustable and powerful steam supply, and OptimalTEMP technology ensures that there will be no burn marks on your clothes. Silk, tulle, lace – this unit can handle it all!
The chamber is cyclonic, the iron heats up in a couple of minutes, the sole of the iron is made of stainless steel.
Specifications:
- constant steam supply: up to 120 g/min;
- power: Max. 2100 W;
- pressure: 7.5 bar (max).
Advantages:
- SteamGlide Advanced outsole;
- effective protection against scale;
- easy to use iron;
- auto shut-off function;
- convenient to carry.
Flaws:
- no fluid control indicator;
- price.
Philips GC8942/20 PerfectCare Expert Plus
Model with a cyclonic chamber and good functionality.
The steam supply is constant and automatically controlled. The 6-layer titanium soleplate ensures fast and efficient ironing of any fabric. The iron is lightweight.
The Easy De-Calc system collects scale and an indicator light shows when the system needs to be cleaned from the inside.
Specifications:
- steam blow: up to 480 g;
- pump pressure: 7.5 bar;
- water capacity: 1.8 l.
Advantages:
- OptimalTEMP;
- sufficient volume of reservoir;
- quality materials;
- long cord;
- child lock function.
Flaws:
- price.
Tefal GV8962
Convenient and high-quality assembled steam generator.
The system includes: 3 heating modes (including eco mode), vertical steaming function, locking the iron on the stand to prevent it from falling.
There is a water level indicator: as soon as the liquid level reaches a critical level, the steam generator gives a signal.
The cord rewinds automatically when you press a special button.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- capacity size: 1600 ml;
- steam supply speed: 120 g/min.
Advantages:
- handsome in appearance;
- affordable;
- scale indicator;
- self-cleaning system from scale.
Flaws:
- small number of modes;
- short power cord.
Tefal GV8963
Steam generator of ergonomic design with a comfortable handle, covered with anti-slip material.
The “sole” of the iron is pure steel, the capacity of the water tank is 1600 ml. The auto-shutdown system operates independently in emergency mode and does not require control by the owner. The self-cleaning mode allows the internal mechanism to independently remove dirt and scale.
It is convenient to steam clothes with buttons and studs, because... there is a special groove.
Specifications:
- warranty: 24 months;
- country of origin: France;
- power: 2400 W;
- cable length: 1.8 m;
- steam pressure: 6.5 bar.
Advantages:
- 3 modes to choose from;
- anti-scale;
- powerful steam flow;
- thin iron nose;
- big boiler
Flaws:
- inconvenient button placement;
- quite high price.
Bosch TDS 6540
This steam generator will turn work into pleasure.
No tedious descaling: the self-cleaning function will automatically rid the device of dirt. The ironing surface is coated with a special compound that prevents the iron from becoming scratched. Enough power for laundry of any texture.
The protective system at the station will not allow the iron to fall: as soon as you place the device in the groove, the lock will work.
Specifications:
- water tank volume: 1300 ml;
- steam supply speed: 120 g/min;
- steam boost speed: 450 g/min;
- maximum steam pressure: 6.5 bar.
Advantages:
- a lot of steam;
- comfortable for hands;
- independently switches to the desired mode;
- clear instructions;
- nice appearance.
Flaws:
- noisy;
- no indicator;
- The cord is twisted at the base due to poor fastening.
Additional functions
Special functionality expands the possibilities of using household steam generators, increases their safety and reliability.
It is recommended to pay attention to the presence of the following additional functions:
- Vertical steaming. Such a device allows, for example, to straighten curtains and clothes on a hanger, clean carpets and wash windows.
- Splashing. The steam generator usually produces dry steam, and this function allows you to humidify the fabrics.
- Anti-drip device. This system prevents water leakage from the tank to the outside.
- Dry smoothing. In fact, such a steam generator can act as a simple iron.
- Auto power off. The function ensures fire safety and is simply necessary for forgetful people. This system will turn off the device automatically after 20-30 seconds when you stop using it.
Note! The versatility of the device is provided by a set of attachments. The more there are, the better.
Standard attachments: ironing iron, carpet brush, long attachment for hard-to-reach areas, hard type stain remover attachment.
Iron sole material
The simplest and cheapest irons have an aluminum sole.
It can be scratched even if a button hits it.
Stainless steel is quite reliable , but it heats up quickly and cools down just as quickly.
The innovative ceramic coating has unique properties , incl. increased heat capacity, but fragile and can be damaged if hit (falled).
One of the best options is Teflon . It is of excellent quality, and its use is limited only by its high price.
Lever
Ease of use depends on its size and shape . The choice is based only on your own preferences.
Weight
Keep in mind! This parameter also determines ease of use.
Of course, it is difficult to hold a massive device in your hand for a long time, but it is more productive and multifunctional.
In this matter, you will have to decide on an alternative on an individual basis.
Length of cord and steam hose
These characteristics are assessed based on specific conditions.
It is necessary to take into account the layout of the premises, the place where the device is used and the location of the sockets.
Please note that excessive length sometimes becomes a hindrance, and a short cord limits accessibility.
Shape and location of the spout
Remember! These characteristics affect the quality of ironing. The most popular are pointed noses.
Additional parameters have little effect on the performance of the device, but they determine the convenience and ease of operation.
And this is very important for frequent and long-term work.
Review of the best models with scale protection
Philips GC8962/40 PerfectCare Expert Plus
Lightweight and powerful device for your comfort.
Fashionable design is not its only advantage. Thanks to modern OptimalTEMP technology, your clothes will be reliably protected from damage, be it rough denim or the most delicate silk. The owner does not need to fiddle with the temperature switch: he can iron clothes from any fabric in any order he wants.
The “sole”, made of stainless steel, does not stick to the fabric and does not leave behind shine or marks.
The “steam blow” function helps to smooth out the most stubborn wrinkles, and steaming can be carried out both horizontally and vertically.
Specifications:
- maximum pump pressure: 7.5 bar;
- removable water tank: 1.8 l.;
- weight: 4 kg;
- steam boost: 520 g/min;
- Power cord length: 1.65 m.
Advantages:
- intense steam;
- light iron;
- ironing speed increases by 2 times;
- no traces of condensation remain on the fabric;
- cord of sufficient length.
Flaws:
- the base takes up a lot of space on the ironing board;
- without steam the temperature is not high enough;
- inconvenient transfer system.
Braun IS 5042
A combination of classic design and good functionality.
Thanks to the declared high power (up to 2400 W), this device will cope with folds and dents even on heavy items, and scheduled adjustment will help bring thin blouses and silk skirts into proper shape. The soleplate of the iron heats up quickly and leaves no marks due to the carefully selected composition.
The water reservoir is voluminous: one and a half liters.
Thanks to this large amount of water, the steam function can be used throughout the entire ironing procedure.
There is anti-scale protection and a self-cleaning system, as well as an automatic shut-off mode and an anti-drip system. Made in China.
Specifications:
- warranty: 24 months;
- steam supply: 120 g/min;
- steam pressure: 6 bar;
- width: 195 mm;
- height: 285 mm;
- depth: 385 mm;
- weight: 4.75 kg.
Advantages:
- additional protection against scratches;
- stainless steel;
- nice appearance;
- spray function;
- The use of running water is allowed.
Flaws:
- non-removable tank;
- many users do not have enough power;
- manufacturer service.
Tefal GV7850 Pro Express
Perfect results with just one touch.
Convenient temperature settings and high-pressure steam supply ensure ideal ironing quality: steam, penetrating deep into the material, straightens out the most stubborn creases.
The device can be moved from place to place thanks to the comfortable handle and special locking system.
Durilium AirGlide Autoclean glides easily over fabric without sticking. Water can be poured directly during the ironing process without turning off the iron.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- highest pressure: 6.9 bar;
- constant steam: 120 g/min;
- power cord: 1.8 m.
Advantages:
- convenient water tank;
- collector for collecting scale;
- intelligent system Smart Technology;
- easy to use;
- saving time;
- uninterrupted steam supply.
Flaws:
- It’s not very convenient to steam in a horizontal position;
- when you first turn it on it smells unpleasant;
- the price is high.
Tefal GV8982 Pro Express X-pert Plus
One of the most popular models of home steam generator.
Makes the ironing process faster and more enjoyable, thanks to five modes for different types of fabric, an energy saving mode and a stand on the iron itself. Even bed linen folded several times is ironed immediately and flawlessly.
A special protective screen will protect the device from damage and scratches during transportation.
It clears scale quickly. The water container can be pulled out. The cord rewinds automatically and is controlled electronically.
Specifications:
- power: 2400 W;
- maximum steam pressure: 7.5;
- steam consumption: 120 g/min;
- steam boost consumption: 450 g/min;
- liquid container volume: 1600 ml.
Advantages:
- spray function;
- large water tank;
- economical moisture consumption when supplying steam;
- thick cover;
- steam boost;
- automatic shutdown.
Flaws:
- short power cord;
- price;
- There is no attachment for delicate fabrics.
Mie Bravissimo
A modern and technologically advanced steam generator with a memorable design.
Compact, lightweight, mobile - all these qualities will be appreciated by any housewife. Its power is enough to iron a mountain of laundry in the shortest possible time and do more pleasant things. There are several ironing modes, including dry ironing.
The reservoir is not the largest - a little more than a liter - but it is enough to continuously iron for 20-25 minutes, and if necessary, water can be added directly “on the go” (no need to disconnect from the power supply).
The lower part of the iron is made of stainless steel, and there is a power indicator on the body. The kit includes a measuring cup and a heat-resistant rubber mat.
Specifications:
- warranty: 12 months;
- power: 2200 W;
- steam supply speed: 150 g/min;
- maximum steam pressure: 5.5 Bar.
Advantages:
- perfectly polished sole;
- built-in anti-drip system;
- convenient drain valve;
- nice appearance;
- carrying bag.
Flaws:
- cools down quickly;
- produces little steam;
- preparation time for work.
- professional steam generator
Precautionary measures
The rules for using the steam generator recommend taking precautions during operation of the device:
- carefully open the tank lid if there is hot water inside - scalding steam may rise from the unit;
- direct the working nozzle at yourself or other people, especially at naked areas of the body;
- use only filtered or distilled water for steaming - in this case, scale will form more slowly;
- After each use of the device, wash the nozzles so that dust and debris do not accumulate in them.
It must be remembered that the steam temperature at the outlet of the unit can be about 100 °C. The device is potentially dangerous and cannot be handled carelessly.
Which company should you choose?
Devices from world-famous European companies, in particular German ones, are valued above others. Chinese ones are much cheaper, but usually last less and break more often.
TOP 8 manufacturers looks like this:
- the Italian company Rotondi produces equipment for cleaning companies and laundries;
- Philips has been producing high-quality and reliable equipment in different price categories for more than 100 years;
- steam generators from Bosch are chosen by those who value technology and functionality;
- Braun is another German old-timer that produces household appliances: powerful and multifunctional;
- We recommend that those who want to do their household chores faster pay attention to highly specialized equipment from Mie;
- Kitfort is a domestic brand that produces equipment at an affordable price (assembled in China);
- Morphy Richards – true English quality, sophistication and technology;
- Tefal equipment is distinguished by its high power and excellent quality (though it cannot be called cheap).
Price categories
The most important criterion for choosing steam generators is cost.
According to this indicator, the following categories are distinguished :
- Cheap appliances (economy category). The average price is between 8000-12000 rubles. They have reduced power and small volume, limited functionality. Inexpensive but high-quality materials are used (for example, the metal sole of an iron).
- Steam generators of the mid-price category. Their cost is in the range of 13,000-19,000 rubles. Their power reaches 1.4-1.5 kW, and their volume exceeds 1.2 liters. The kit includes a sufficient number of attachments. Priority is given to the most necessary functions and optimal layout.
- Elite appliances, premium category. Their price exceeds 20,000 rubles. They provide maximum functionality, large volume, ease of use, and attractive appearance. Branded, innovative materials and systems are used.
Almost all leading manufacturers produce steam generators in different price categories.
This increases competitiveness and gives you the opportunity to choose from a wide range.