Can a steam generator be used to clean windows?

The advertisement claims that steam generator Ideal for cleaning windows of any type, it is convenient, quick and easy.

Is it really? What difficulties do housewives have to face in the process, how labor-intensive and convenient is it?

First things first: is it possible to wash a window with a steam generator, step-by-step instructions for the process, the pros and cons of the method, as well as which model of steam generator for washing windows to choose?

Can it be washed?

The device is recommended for wide use in cleaning - steam cleans and disinfects any surfaces, except polishing and paper. They are especially convenient for washing window units of any type of glazing.

Steam simultaneously performs several functions:

• wets the surface so that the dirt comes off;
• soaks up heavy dirt (traces of insects, glue residue from Christmas decorations, drops of grease in the kitchen, soot, and so on);
• eats away the fatty film;
• kills some colonies of germs and bacteria on handles, windowsills, and glass.

If with the classic method of cleaning you had to first apply chemicals or a soap solution to the surface, then rub off dirty spots, wipe and evaluate the result, wash off again, but now the remnants of the products, and wipe, wipe, wipe ad infinitum, then with steam everything is simpler.

In many household models, the temperature of the steam supply from the heating tank is 95 degrees Celsius; as it passes through the hose, it cools slightly and is supplied diffusely from the nozzle - this way it is impossible to burn your hand.

Significant advantages:

• washes quickly and does not require effort;
• disinfects the surface;
• you don’t have to use chemicals;
• washes all corners and hard-to-reach places;
• Convenient to apply from the street side.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• an abundance of dirty water (those one and a half liters poured into the tank), which flows in streams onto the windowsill, floor;
• some models do not have a water level sensor - cleaning in the midst of it may suddenly end;
• To add a fresh portion, you need to wait until the device has cooled down.

It is important to remember that the speed and quality of cleaning are influenced by the specific features of the model and experience. The second or third time you get the hang of it, it becomes much easier to control.

How to wash: step-by-step instructions

The unit is very easy to operate and does not require any special skills., if the rules of use are followed, it is safe. Cleaning a window panel with it, if prepared in advance, is a real pleasure.

So how does steam washing work?

Preparation

Preparation takes up to half an hour, the main time is waiting for the water to heat up:

1. Assemble the device as indicated in the instructions, fill the tank, tighten the cap, plug into the outlet and press ON. (heat).
2. While the unit is heating up (up to 30 minutes), clear access - remove the carpet, indoor flowers, curtains.
3. Prepare a well-absorbing rag or napkin, a rubber scraper or something convenient for final wiping (cloth, paper), and a basin where you can wring out the rag.

Process

When the equipment gives a signal that the device is heated, you can start washing:

1. Bring the nozzle to the surface at a distance of 20-30 cm, press steam. You can release the first portions of steam outside or into a basin; as a rule, they flow down in a trickle.
2. Treat the surface with steam (spread several times over the entire area), immediately remove excess moisture with a scraper or cloth.
3. Repeat the same with the frame and slopes.

In this case, there is no need to first apply glass cleaning liquid, rub, or hold the nozzle for a long time at especially dirty places - under the influence of hot steam, all dirt comes off quickly.

You can simply direct a stream of steam into the corners of the frames, bringing the nozzle very close - the pressure will knock out all the dirt.

Completion

At the very end you must:

1. When everything is washed clean, you need to unplug the device and leave it to cool.
2. Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture from the floor and window sill.
3. When the unit has cooled down, drain the residue from the tank, disconnect the brush or nozzle, and dry it.

Watch the video on how to clean a window with a steam generator:

Features of choosing a household appliance for cleaning window surfaces

Before buying a steam generator for your home, it will be useful to find out what differences there are in the models, what is really important and what you have to pay for:

• Volume of the tank. A household appliance can have a tank capacity from 200 grams to one and a half liters.

  Naturally, the smaller the boiler, the more often you will have to refuel it, which means wasting time on heating and cooling due to safety precautions;

• Power and pressure. It depends on them how powerful the steam jet will be. It is believed that for everyday use, a pressure of 2.5 bar and a power of 1.5 kW are sufficient;
• Equipment. It’s good when the kit includes various nozzles and brushes, a rubber scraper, and terry rags with an elastic band that are put on the brush.

Some options help calculate cleaning time and are useful in everyday life:

• heating indicator indicating temperature;
• liquid level sensor;
• overheat protection - the device will turn off when it reaches a high temperature;
• protection from children.

Top 3 models

KARCHER SC-2 – maneuverable, 1.2 liter tank, works continuously for up to half an hour, there is protection against burns, against children, a heating sensor. Cost from 7.5 to 10.5 tr.

Euroflex Monster SC60S - a little heavy, but the tank is on wheels, can work continuously for up to one hour in the network and 5 minutes without the network, the tank is 1.2 liters, there is child protection. Cost 10 tr.

Kitfort KT-1003 – a model where the reservoir is located on the handle, quickly heats the water, and has many additional attachments. Cost about 4.8 to 7 tr.

How to operate the device more conveniently and quickly?

1. If the water is hard, with a lot of salts, you can use a softening pencil so that there are no streaks on the glass, or buy a special liquid.
2. You can wash glass even in sub-zero temperatures, the main thing is to keep the nozzle a little further from the plastic or glass surface so that the steam has time to cool, and quickly remove the drops with a scraper or rag before they freeze.
3. Before washing, it is better to spend a couple of minutes and roll up the curtains well, clear the window sill, cover the floor and prepare a basin where you can wring out the rag so as not to be distracted during the process.
4. It’s good if the model has steam control, various nozzles, water level and temperature indicators, this makes cleaning easier.

Conclusion

So, a steam generator, if you choose a model that is convenient for you, is truly ideal for washing windows and frames.

Certainly, has its own characteristics and disadvantages, for example, flows of dirty water, but this can be solved. No old methods can compare with convenience and results.