Loewe steam generators: features and selection rules

Modern ironing technology allows you to quickly and efficiently iron products from different fabrics. But the wrong choice of such a device can lead to damage to clothes and linen. Therefore, it is worth considering the main features of Loewe steam generators and familiarizing yourself with the basic rules for choosing such a technique.

Since 2015, the German companies EuroCom GmbH and Loewe have been producing Loewe steam generators. The production facilities of both companies are located mainly in Germany. The brand philosophy is based on three main principles:

• power - all steam irons are distinguished by their high performance and the presence of many useful additional functions;
• reliability - high-quality materials are used in production, all products have the necessary quality certificates from the USA, EU and Russian Federation;
• simplicity - the design and control systems of all models are developed to ensure maximum ease of use.

The main advantages of this technique over analogues:

• ergonomics and ease of use due to its small size, well-thought-out design and a very simple control system;
• built-in boiler design increases its efficiency in comparison with ironing systems in which the steam generator is placed outside the iron;
• branded German quality, modern reliable materials and a two-year manufacturer's warranty allow you not to worry about possible breakdowns;
• dry steam technology allows you to provide disinfection and high-quality smoothing of any tissue and at the same time avoid the occurrence of streaks and stains;
• energy efficiency - with a relatively high power of the steam flow and the operating temperature of the iron, the power consumption for all models from the range of the German company is only 0.8 kW;
• use of ceramic sole allows you to easily iron any fabrics (including wool, nylon, nylon, linen, silk and cotton) and eliminate sticking, and thanks to the "Spider" groove system, an air cushion is formed under the sole, which additionally protects the fabric;
• steam power allows you to smoothen up to 4 layers of bedding at the same time, thereby saving time;
• effective anti-scale system, Consisting of a self-cleaning heating element and anti-lime rods, it can be used to fill the tank with water of any hardness.

The main disadvantages of all models of the German manufacturer are:

• relatively small volume of the water tanklimiting the time of its continuous use;
• no shutdown function when idle, which reduces the safety of the product;
• power cord length does not allow efficient use of steam generators for vertical steaming of products with a large surface (for example, curtains);
• built-in steam generator does not allow the system to be used as a steam cleaner with replaceable nozzles.

The presence of only one temperature regime for all types of fabrics and works can be considered both an advantage and a disadvantage of this technique.

Loewe's range of steam stations currently consists of of the following models:

• LW-IR-HG 001 - it has a mass of 1.6 kg, a reservoir of 300 ml, a steam flow pressure of 7 bar, an unregulated steam temperature of 150 ° C, a heating time of up to 5 minutes and a black body;

• LW-IR-HG 002 - differs in the purple color of the case.

• LW-IR-HG 011 - differs from previous models in that it is sold under the Reinold Deluxe brand and has a white case;

• LW-IR 001 - a model from the 2017 line, differs in weight 1.8 kg and a steam pressure of 6 bar, other characteristics are similar to LW-IR-HG 001;

• LW-IR 002 - differs from the previous version in the white color of the case.

Previously, the company produced modification of the Reinold Deluxe steam iron, belonging to the 2016 model range with characteristics, similar models LW-IR 001 and LW-IR 002, but now this option is out of production.

Choosing between different models of irons and steam generators, it is worth considering such basic characteristics.

• Tank volume... The larger the volume of the water tank, the longer the device can be used continuously.

• Steam pressure and consumption. It is the steam pressure that determines the ironing efficiency. If this parameter is more than 3.5 bar, the iron will confidently cope with most ironing tasks on a horizontal board. A pressure above 5 bar will allow the product to be used for vertical steaming. The 7 bar pressure guarantees efficient work both with horizontal and vertical steaming, will allow you to iron the laundry in several layers and smooth out even the most stubborn creases on coarse fabrics.

• Power... For most products, the power of steam flow and the temperature to which the soleplate of the iron is heated directly depends on the consumed electrical power. Options less than 0.5 kW will most likely not create sufficient vapor pressure. At the same time, devices with a power of more than 2 kW, although they will be able to cope with any fabrics and folds, will be quite expensive to operate in terms of electricity bills.

• Soles. Currently, the following materials are used for the production of iron soles:
  • aluminum - such irons are lighter and cheaper than analogues, heat up faster and move very easily over fabrics, but break faster than products with soles made of more durable materials;
  • stainless steel - stronger and heavier than aluminum, moreover, easier to clean;
  • ceramics - with a careful attitude, it serves much longer than steel and aluminum, it is distinguished by its lightness and quick sliding over fabrics, but is subject to brittle destruction during falls and impacts;
  • teflon - can be used for ironing any fabrics, but deteriorates in contact with metal and other hard fittings.

• Additional functions. The most useful option to look for when buying a steam iron is steam boost. Its use allows you to smoothen dry things with a lot of complex folds. The essence of a steam shock is a short-term supply of steam with an increased flow rate.

Another important characteristic is anti-drip system, which avoids the ejection of water drops through the nozzles of the iron soleplate. All Loewe irons are equipped with this system.

The reservoir must be completely filled with water before use. Wait until it is fully heated and, just in case, direct the first jet of steam away from things to avoid drips. After ironing is complete, you need to make a few more "blank bursts" of steam in order to remove its remnants from the steam line, and then drain the remaining water from the container.

Make sure that the steam jet does not fall on your hands during operation - it is fraught with burns. Also, avoid touching the heated soleplate.

The ceramic sole requires very careful handling and maintenance. In no case should it be cleaned with hard brushes, soda and salt.... To clean such a surface, you need to slightly heat the iron, and then wipe its sole with a soft cloth made of thick cotton soaked in a water solution of vinegar (1: 1).

Most owners of Loewe irons speak highly of their reliability, efficiency and convenience. The main advantage of the authors of the reviews is the high quality of ironing with a small weight and dimensions of the device, which allows you to even take them with you on trips. The main disadvantage of all models, buyers consider the lack of auto shutdown when idle. Sometimes complaints are caused by the relatively small volume of the water tank.

You can find out how to choose a steam generator below.