Steam generators for the floor: characteristics, recommendations for selection and operation

Modern technology makes cleaning much easier. Even such a time-consuming task, like washing dirty floors, can be accelerated with the help of a high-quality steam generator. Therefore, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the characteristics of popular steam generators for mopping, as well as consider the main recommendations for their selection and proper operation.

The principle of operation of the steam generator for the floor is based on the effect of cleaning and disinfection of surfaces when exposed to a jet of hot steam. In this case, steam is supplied from the boiler through a steam line under pressure, due to which mechanical cleaning is added to the washing effect. Therefore, the most important characteristics of a steam cleaner for mopping will be the following.

• Steam pressure - for most devices, this indicator is in the range from 2 to 6 bar.
• Steam Cleaner Power - household complexes have a power of 0.8 to 3 kW. If you do not plan to clean heavy dirt and plan to use the device only for regular cleaning, then options with a capacity of 1.6 to 2 kW will be most effective in terms of quality and energy consumption.
• Volume of the tank - for most devices is from 0.7 to 3 liters. The greater this characteristic, the longer the continuous operation of the cleaner, but the larger its dimensions.
• Steam speed - usually ranges from 90 to 140 g / min. The higher it is, the more efficient the cleaning.

Currently, these are the main types of systems for steam washing floors.

• Steam Mop - specialized floor cleaning solution with a convenient handle and a nozzle in the form of a bell.
• Classic steam cleaner - A universal steam generator with a hose and nozzles, allowing you to create a stream of different shapes. It is used both for cleaning floors and for cleaning and disinfecting clothes, carpets, car interiors and any other surfaces made of stone, wood, glass, plastic and fabric.
• Steam generator irons - can be used for cleaning carpets and other coatings.

By the design of the vaporization system, these types of devices are distinguished.

• With one boiler - a classic layout in which water is in one tank. Requires warming up before use.
• With two tanks - in one tank the water is constantly heated, in the other it remains cold. This option allows you to extend the use time before refueling and reduce the warm-up time.
• Direct-flow - instead of heating the water in the tank, it is supplied directly to the heater. It does not require heating and can work indefinitely, but is characterized by higher energy costs and the need to connect to a water source.

A rating of the best home appliances from leading manufacturers will help you choose the right model.

• Philips GC7920 / 20 PerfectCare Compact Plus - This model appeared on sale recently, but has already managed to earn a reputation as one of the best solutions. It has a power of 2.4 kW and a vapor pressure of up to 6.5 bar.
• Bosch TDS 6540 - an analogue of the previous model with a smaller tank and greater steam boost.
• Tefal GV9562 Pro Express Ultimate - a power of 2.6 kW provides steam with a pressure of up to 7.4 bar and a steam boost of 0.5 kg / min.
• Braun IS 7143 WH - differs from analogues in the largest tank (2 l) with characteristics similar to Philips GC7920 / 20.
• Runzel For-900 Utmarkt - it has a slightly lower power (~ 2 kW) than the leaders of the rating, but due to the rejection of additional functions, it boasts the best price / quality ratio.
• Loewe LW-IR-HG-001 Premium - it resembles an iron in design, but can be used for cleaning floor coverings.

Regardless of the installed filter, it is better to pour purified or tap water into the tank. Process water in the boiler will contaminate the filters and scale.

When cleaning floors with parquet and laminate flooring, use the appropriate nozzle to avoid damage.

See below for an overview of the steam generator for the floor.