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

Modern technology makes cleaning much easier. Even the laborious task of cleaning dirty floors can be sped up with a quality steam generator. Therefore, it is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of popular steam generators for cleaning the floor, as well as consider the basic recommendations for their selection and correct operation.

The principle of operation of the floor steam generator is based on the effect of cleaning and disinfecting 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 cleaning floors are as follows.

• Steam pressure - for most devices, this figure is in the range from 2 to 6 bar.
• Steam cleaner power - household complexes have a capacity 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 the most efficient in terms of quality and energy consumption will be options with a capacity of 1.6 to 2 kW.
• 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 purifier, but the larger its dimensions.
• Steam jet speed - usually between 90 and 140 g / min. The higher it is, the more efficient the cleaning.

Nowadays, such basic types of systems for steam cleaning of floors are common.

• Steam mop - The specialized solution for cleaning floors with a comfortable handle and a bell-shaped nozzle.
• Classic steam cleaner - a universal steam generator with a hose and nozzles that allow you to create a jet 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.
• Irons with steam generator - can be used for cleaning carpets and other coverings.

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

• With one boiler - classic layout, in which water is in one container. 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 shorten the warm-up time.
• Direct-flow - instead of heating water in the tank, it is supplied directly to the heating element. It does not require heating and can work indefinitely, but it is distinguished by higher energy costs and the need to connect to a water source.

The rating of the best household devices from leading manufacturers will help you choose the right model.

• Philips GC7920 / 20 PerfectCare Compact Plus - this model appeared on sale quite recently, but has already earned a reputation as one of the best solutions. It has a power of 2.4 kW and a steam pressure of up to 6.5 bar.
• Bosch TDS 6540 - analogue of the previous model with a smaller reservoir and a greater force of steam shock.
• Tefal GV9562 Pro Express Ultimate - power of 2.6 kW provides steam with a pressure of up to 7.4 bar and a steam boost with a speed 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 - has a slightly lower power than the leaders of the rating (~ 2 kW), but due to the refusal of additional functions, it can boast of a better price / quality ratio.
• Loewe LW-IR-HG-001 Premium - resembles an iron in construction, but can be used for cleaning floor coverings.

Regardless of the installed filter, it is better to fill the tank with purified or tap water. Process water in the boiler will clog filters and build up scale.

When cleaning parquet and laminate floors, a suitable nozzle must be used to avoid damaging them.

See below for an overview of the floor steam generator.