How to choose a steam generator for home use? What parameters to pay attention to?

Modern man is accustomed to using a variety of household appliances. One of these devices is steam generator.

He may not have found wide popularity among Russians yet, but he has good prospects.

With the help of steam, you can facilitate various household chores and improve their quality.. For those who want to appreciate the dignity of such an apparatus, a natural question arises: how to choose a steam generator for the home.

Criterias of choice

Given its purpose, allocated the main types are:

• room cleaning equipment, i.e. combination with a vacuum cleaner or steam mops;
• ironing device or iron increased efficiency;
• vertical steamer, capable of ironing curtains, clothes on a hanger, washing windows and performing other functions.

Which to choose? The choice of a steam generator for home use is carried out, first of all, taking into account the purpose.

In addition, you need to pay attention to the following parameters.

Power

One of the most important indicators is the power of the device.

The amount of steam produced, the heating temperature and performance depend on it.. The functionality of the device is directly related to it.

At the same time, an increase in power leads to an increase in energy consumption and additional energy costs.

Household steam generators can have a power of 0.8 to 2.5 kW.

Cheap models consume about 0.8-1.2 kW. Multifunctional devices are designed for 1.5-2 kW.

For the home, as a rule, devices with a power of no more than 1.8 kW are selected.

Steam supply method

The quality and quantity of steam generated depends on the methods of its production and supply, as well as their main characteristics.

There are such main options for steam generation:

1. Boiler for generating steam.
   The method is based on the simultaneous heating of the entire volume of water using heating elements.
   The main advantage is the increased amount of steam generated.
   The disadvantage is inertia, because warming up water requires a considerable time (up to 10-15 minutes).
   This type of steam generators is used with a large amount of work performed.
2. Instant steam generation.
   Water in a small amount from the tank is supplied to the heating element, and therefore almost instantly turns into steam.
   The advantage is the speed of readiness for operation. Minus - a small speed of steam supply.
3. Providing water replenishment.
   In such designs, the tanks are constantly or periodically replenished as they become empty, which ensures long-term, continuous operation of the steam generator.
   The device can be equipped with 2 reservoirs, one of which has heating elements, or a special collector, where a new portion of water is supplied, connected to a heated reservoir.

1. Steam volume or feed rate.
   With a continuous jet, the speed can be in the range of 80-150 g/min.
   It is important to have a regulator capable of changing this parameter.
   Most appliances are capable of operating in the steam boost mode, which delivers steam at a rate between 100-370 g/min for a short period.
2. Pressure.
   It largely determines the effectiveness of the steaming action.
   Modern devices are capable of delivering a jet with a pressure of 2-7 bar.

When choosing a device, special attention should be paid to the characteristics of the steam supply.

water tank

The main parameter for evaluating a water tank is its volume.

Enlarging the tank leads to an increase in productivity, but makes the structure heavier and increases the size.

In various models, the volume can be from 0.5 to 3 liters. In compact devices, it lies in the range of 0.5-0.8 liters.

The best option for domestic needs - 1-1.5 liters.

Another indicator worthy of attention is related to the possibility of visual control.

Transparent walls allow you to assess the fullness of the tank. Existence of a measured scale allows to provide high-grade control.

Type of water tank

1. Removed boiler.
   It is connected to the sole of the device with steam pipes.
2. Built-in tank.
   This option is most common in household appliances, making them more mobile.
   As a rule, they are used in the instantaneous method of steam generation and to create a steam boost.
3. Dual tanks.
   In this embodiment, only one container is equipped with a heater, and the other serves to replenish its volume.

When choosing a steam generator for this parameter, you should pay attention to the ease of maintenance and the weight of the portable part of the device.

Scale protection

Good, modern steam generators have anti-scale protection or a self-cleaning function from it.

As a protection replaceable cartridges filled with a composition that purifies the incoming water can be installed.

For cleaning, the corresponding mode is turned on. The duration of the procedure is 2-3 minutes.

Working mode

When operating the steam generator the most important operating parameters are the temperature and the intensity of the steam supply.

Efficient operation of the device is possible only if it is possible to regulate them. depending on the specific conditions and the material being processed.

To do this, you need to make sure that it has the appropriate regulators.

So modern devices allow you to set the steam temperature in the range of 90-160 degrees, and the speed of its supply - from 0 to the maximum value.

Adjustment can be done in steps or continuously. Various models use electromechanical or electronic control.

Heating time

For broiler-type appliances of a significant volume, it will take up to 12-15 minutes.

Average training time household steam generators is located in the range of 2-10 minutes.

Devices with instant vaporization are ready for use in 2-3 minutes after switching on.

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 such additional functions:

1. Vertical steaming.
   Such a device allows, for example, smoothing curtains and things on a hanger, cleaning carpets and washing windows.
2. splashing.
   The steam generator usually produces dry steam, and this function allows you to moisten the fabrics.
3. Anti-drip device.
   Such a system eliminates the leakage of water from the tank to the outside.
4. Dry smoothing.
   In fact, such a steam generator can play the role of a simple iron.
5. Auto power off.
   The function provides fire safety and is simply necessary for forgetful people.
   This system will turn off the device when the operation is stopped after 20-30 seconds automatically.

Standard nozzles: ironing iron, carpet brush, long nozzle for hard-to-reach areas, hard type stain remover nozzle.

soleplate material

The most simple and cheap irons have an aluminum sole.

It can be scratched even if a button hits.

Stainless steel is quite reliablebut it heats up quickly and cools down just as quickly.

innovative ceramic coating has unique properties, incl.increased heat capacity, but fragile and upon impact (fall) can be damaged.

One of the best options is teflon. It is of excellent quality, and only the high price limits its use.

Lever

Ease of use depends on its size and shape.. The choice is based only on your own preferences.

The weight

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.

Cord and steam hose length

These characteristics are evaluated based on specific conditions.

It is necessary to take into account the layout of the premises, the place of operation of the device and the location of the sockets.

Keep in mind that excessive length sometimes becomes a hindrance, and a short cord limits accessibility.

The shape and location of the spout

Additional parameters have little effect on the performance of the device, but they determine the convenience and ease of use.

And this is very important for frequent and long-term work.

Price categories

The most important criterion for choosing steam generators is cost.

According to this indicator such categories are distinguished:

1. Cheap appliances (economy category).
   The average price is in the range of 8000-12000 rubles.
   They have reduced power and small volume, limited functionality.
   Inexpensive, but high-quality materials are used (for example, a metal soleplate of an iron).
2. Steam generators of the middle price category.
   Their cost is in the range of 13,000-19,000 rubles.
   Their power reaches 1.4-1.5 kW, and the volume exceeds 1.2 liters.
   The kit includes a sufficient number of nozzles. Priority is given to the most needed features and optimal layout.
3. Elite appliances, premium category.
   Their price exceeds 20,000 rubles.
   They provide maximum functionality, large volume, ease of use, attractive appearance.
   Branded, innovative materials and systems are used.

Almost all leading manufacturers produce steam generators of different price categories.

This increases competitiveness and gives you the opportunity to choose from a wide range.

Notable Manufacturers

Reliable and high-quality appliances are produced by a number of companies specializing in the production of household appliances.

1. Philips.
   This is a Dutch multinational company. Its branches are open in a number of states.
   Most of the equipment is produced in China. There is a branch in Russia.
   The following models stand out: economy category - Philips GC7920 / 20 PerfectCare Compact Plus, Philips GC7833 PerfectCare Compact: mid-price category - Philips GC8930 / 10 PerfectCare Expert Plus; premium class - Philips GC9682/80 PerfectCare Elite Plus.
2. Brown.
   This German company produces a wide range of steam generators.
   Most devices on the Russian market are made in China.
   Main models: economy class - Braun IS 3041 and Braun IS 2043CareStyle; mid-price category - Braun CareStyle 5 IS 5022WH; premium category - Braun IS 7156 BK CareStyle 7.
3. Bosch.
   A German company whose products are distinguished by an increased price, but real German quality.
   Models stand out: Bosch TDS 6041 and Bosch TDS 8080 (mid-price category); Bosch TDS 6540 (premium).
4. Tefal.
   This French company has long acquired international status. Its current owner is Groupe SEB.
   Most of the production is in China.
   It is this company that has a patent for the tefal coating of the sole. Models: Tefal GV7810 PRO EXPRESS, Tefal GV9581 Pro Express Ultimate, Tefal GV9562 Pro Express Ultimate (one of the most powerful devices), Tefal GV5246 Easy Pressing (ironing steam generator).
5. M.I.E.
   This Italian company specializes in steam and ironing equipment.
   Products are characterized by high European quality. Main models: MIE Stiro 1200, MIE Stiro Pro Luxe, MIE Stiro Nonstop, MIE Bravissimo.
6. Vitek.
   This is a Russian brand owned by Golder Electronics. Many steam generators are manufactured in China.
   Models stand out: Vitek VT1224, Vitek VT1232, Vitek VT 1284, Vitek VT2435, Vitek VT2437.

When choosing a steam generator, you should contact the manufacturer.

Reviews

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conclusions

Household steam generators can greatly facilitate the work of the hostess for ironing complex fabrics and cleaning large rooms.

When choosing a device, special attention should be paid to the following factors:

• steam generator type selected based on real needs;
• steam power and intensity largely determine the effectiveness of the equipment;
• often the main selection criterion is the price, and according to this indicator, economy, mid-price and premium categories are distinguished;
• only products of trusted manufacturers meet all the requirements for reliability, performance and safety.

Choosing the right steam generator will ensure trouble-free operation for a long time.

Useful video

From this video you will learn which iron with a steam generator is better to choose: