What kind of water should be poured into the steam generator and why?
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.
Content
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 the heating element. Depending on the quality of the water, the service life of the heating element can be increased or decreased.
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 settlements. 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 using the device, it must be drained and a descaling procedure must be carried out..
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 this product is that it reduces 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 fakes. 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, which is 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.
Filtered
Filtered water poured into the steam generator Preferably untreated 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.
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.
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.
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 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, since the hot air in the tank is under pressure and can cause burns when opening the lid.
To drain or not to drain the remainder?
After using a steam generator, very often some amount of water remains in its tank.
It is advisable to leave water in the steam generator for no longer than 2-3 days.
Conclusion
One of the best options for water for a steam generator is to purchase a liquid specifically designed for this device. Other good options are a mixture of distilled and regular or demineralized.
The recommendations of the device manufacturer itself should also be taken into account. The use of suitable water means ease of cleaning and caring for things, as well as a long service life of the unit itself.
