The efficiency of a steam generator largely depends on how correctly it is operated.
The quality of the water being poured is one of the important aspects. If the hardness level is high, scale formation may occur and the service life of the device may be reduced.
To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to carefully monitor the quality of the water used in the steam generator. Our article will tell you what kind of water to pour into the steam generator when preparing the device for operation and why.
Which one is poured and is any preparation needed?
Water has differences in its chemical composition, which affects the operation of the steam generator and the quality of the steaming itself.
The basis of the device is a heating element . Depending on the quality of the water, the service life of the heating element can be increased or decreased.
Since the heating element is the most expensive and difficult part to repair, the quality of the water cannot be neglected. In addition, unsuitable water can leave streaks and stains during the steaming process.
Will it work from the tap?
Regular tap water that has not been purified contains a large amount of impurities.
The alkaline deposit formed during operation of the device is deposited on surfaces, destroys them, and disables the equipment. Weak points - joints, welding points.
The hardness of tap water and the presence of impurities differ in different localities. The higher the hardness index, the greater the danger the household appliance is exposed to , and the faster it will become unusable.
Additional use of water softeners is undesirable. Despite the real decrease in hardness and the absence of scale, these substances are capable of:
- form unwanted compounds;
- clog the steam generator;
- lead to the formation of brownish-yellow stains on clothing.
If ordinary hard tap water was poured into the steam generator container, then after operating the device it must be drained and a descaling procedure must be carried out .
When using tap water, it must be settled, or even better, filtered.
Is it possible to use distilled water?
Distilled water is water that contains virtually no impurities or salts. This option is suitable for use in a steam generator, especially in combination with plain water.
The disadvantage of such a product is a decrease in vaporization due to the neutrality of the composition . The boiling point of such a liquid is higher. It would be better to use it half and half with plain water.
In this case, evaporation problems can be avoided. The device will operate smoothly and there will be no steam explosions or leaks. As a result, the evaporator chamber and the steam generator itself will last longer.
When purchasing distilled water, you should be wary of counterfeits . If purchased from an untrustworthy place, such water may contain heavy hydrogen, a substance that has a detrimental effect on metals, leading to damage to equipment.
It is possible to use clean distilled water for the steam generator only if the manufacturer recommends it.
Bottled
Table water sold in supermarkets contains minerals . When used regularly to refill the steam generator, mineral compounds are deposited and accumulated. At the same time, the operating efficiency of the device decreases.
Mineral water should not be used in the steam generator.
Filtered
Filtered water poured into a steam generator is preferable to untreated water from the tap . The amount of foreign impurities in it is lower. The suitability of water for pouring into a steam generator is determined by the type of filtration.
The better the water filtration, the better for the device.
Demineralized
This option is one of the most suitable for use in a steam generator.
This ensures:
- good steam formation;
- the service life of the device is extended.
Removing salts from the liquid prevents the appearance of scale, and the generated steam will not leave streaks.
Boiled
Boiled water retains all the mineral impurities that were originally in it. When used in a steam generator, they can damage the appliance by forming scale. This is especially noticeable when boiling hard water.
This option for choosing water is not very suitable for filling into the steam generator tank. Besides the fact that this method takes some time, it does not make the water more suitable for use.
From the well
The use of untreated natural water collected directly from a well in a steam generator is unacceptable. Such a liquid may contain large quantities of organic and inorganic compounds .
The result of use may be scale, stains on the fabric and a decrease in the service life of the steam generator itself. When using water from this source, it must be carefully filtered.
Melted
There is a widespread belief about the incredible benefits of melt water for all needs . But it is not suitable for pouring into a steam generator.
Untreated melt water can contain many undesirable impurities, including organic acids.
When using this option, stains may appear on steamed clothes . The quality of operation of the device itself will also be at risk, since impurities contained in the water can:
- form a precipitate;
- layer;
- lead to the appearance of scale.
Can I use boiled water instead of distilled water?
It is important to remember that you cannot replace distillate with boiled water. Although boiling removes most of the dissolved gases, many salts remain unchanged. ... It is possible to replace the distillate with water obtained by the second method, if this does not lead to failure of the device.
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Special H2O for household appliances: advantages and disadvantages
In the household appliance departments you can purchase water for steam generators and irons.
It has a number of advantages:
- designed specifically for use in household appliances;
- properly cleaned;
- helps prevent the formation of stains on things and streaks on surfaces.
This is the best option. The disadvantages are the difficulty of purchasing in some localities and the high price.
Special flavored water for irons and steam generators is not the best choice. It has a pleasant smell that is transferred to the things being processed.
But such a liquid may contain minerals and organic matter. When water is heated, such impurities often produce stains and stains on surfaces.
How to make iron water with your own hands
If you really want your bed linen to have an unusual, refreshing aroma, you can make your own water for the iron at home. To create the liquid you will need:
- 600 g diluted distillate or demineralized water.
- 80 ml of alcohol (you can add vodka).
- 20 - 30 drops of essential oil (lavender, rose, jasmine, cardamom, rosemary, mint, etc. are used).
All ingredients must be thoroughly mixed (preferably in a glass container). Store for one week in a cool, dark place. The flavored liquid can be used for 1 year.
After steaming with an iron, the smell will persist for a long time. Also, once a month you can spray the bed and pillows with homemade water.
The smells of essential oils have a beneficial effect on the human body (eliminate anxiety, insomnia, help with stress, normalize hormonal balance).
How much is needed?
Each device has its own operating instructions . It indicates the required volume of water to be filled.
Medium-sized tanks are optimal for home use - up to 1.5 liters. On average, this volume is sufficient to operate for approximately 30 minutes and heat up in just 5 or 7 minutes.
If there is a lot of work to be done, then water will have to be added to the tank.
Additionally, the following recommendations should be followed:
- do not exceed the amount of water poured into the tank;
- refill the container as the water evaporates.
Refueling must be carried out with extreme caution , as the hot air in the tank is under pressure and can cause burns when opening the lid.
Tips for caring for your iron with steam function
What kind of water to pour into your electrical appliance is up to you to decide. Even if you use water of the required quality, you need to periodically clean the steamer.
Take plain water and vinegar in a ratio of about 5 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Pour this solution into the steaming compartment. Turn on the electrical appliance and wait 5 - 10 minutes. Then drain the solution.
Important: During operation, do not turn on the steam function on the iron.
There is only one conclusion from all of the above - if you want to keep expensive household electrical appliances in good condition, you need to use high-quality water and not be lazy in cleaning the steamer.
Rating of the best clothes steamers in 2018
There are a huge number of steamer models on the consumer market, each of which has its own characteristics and advantages. The best of them are included in the rating of clothing steamers, which includes:
- Grand Master GM-Q5 MULTI R is a multifunctional household appliance that combines the functions of such devices as a steamer, steam cleaner and steam generator. This is ensured by sufficient power equal to 1950 W, and a spacious water container of 2.3 liters. and the presence of an iron included. Additional advantages include an anti-drip system and an auto-shut-off function. The only disadvantage of this device is the absence of an automatic cord winder, the length of which in this model is 185 cm;
- Philips GC660/05 is a vertical steamer with a power of 1800 W and a water tank capacity of 2.1 liters. It comes with all the necessary accessories, and in addition there is a special pad designed for cleaning pillows, carpets and fur products. Steam can be supplied in three modes, the choice of which depends on the type of surface being treated. Additional advantages include the presence of an automatic cord winding function, a separate compartment for storing attachments, silent operation and the ability to use any type of water. An obvious disadvantage is the lack of an anti-drip system;
- Kit fort KT-904 is a multifunctional device with a power of 2000W. To be used for various purposes, the device is equipped with a number of additional accessories, such as a scraper for cleaning windows and glass and nozzles with a narrow spout for hard-to-reach places. The disadvantages of this device include significant weight equal to almost 5 kg, strong heating of the handle when turned on, and a steam hose that requires careful handling;
- Tefal IS8380E1 is a vertical steamer with a power of 1700 W. The volume of the water tank is 1.7 l. Its advantages include fast heating of 40 seconds, the presence of a nozzle for cleaning fabric from hair and fur, and the presence of 5 steam modes. Disadvantages - a short cord connecting the device to the mains;
- Kitfort KT-901 is a vertical steamer with a power of 1500 W. Combines the ideal price-quality ratio for a device used in everyday life. The body and hoses are made of durable, wear-resistant materials, which allows you to use the device as long as necessary. The kit includes all the necessary attachments and a bag for storing them. The disadvantages include the lack of an anti-drip system, as a result of which water stains may remain on the fabric after use. There is also the possibility of unexpected shutdown due to the fact that the protection system is activated when there is a large accumulation of water drops on the iron.
