Power consumption
Rated power consumed by the device during operation. Usually, it is indicated by the maximum power consumption when used in normal mode, without abnormal situations.
In general, this parameter is secondary when choosing: manufacturers select power in such a way as to provide the necessary indicators of performance, pressure, etc. However, some practical points are also associated with power. So, with the same performance (see "Steam intensity"), a more powerful device will spend less time heating water and generating steam; it can also be provided with a more capacious boiler (see "Water boiler volume"), which is useful for long-term continuous operation. On the other hand, such devices turn out to be more expensive, and often also heavier and larger than relatively “weak” steamers, and besides, they load the mains more.
The second point related to power is just the calculations of the load on the wiring and various electrical equipment (protective automation, AVRs, generators, etc.).
Detachable water tank
Device has a water tank with a
detachable design.
The detachable design makes refueling much easier. In particular, it allows to fill the tank under the tap, while with a non-detachable tank, this option is often not available. And some models with this feature can be refueled during operation, without turning off the heating and without relieving pressure in the boiler (although it still will be necessary to clarify this possibility separately). In addition, a detachable tank is much easier to clean or wash than a non-detachable one.
Steam flow
Steam flow provided by the device. For models with power and/or humidity adjustment, this item indicates the maximum possible value.
When choosing according to this indicator, it should be borne in mind that the steam flow characterizes only the amount of water vapor produced by the device per minute. The intensity of the impact of this steam on the treated surface/product can be different, first of all, it depends on the working pressure. Therefore, only devices with similar pressure indicators can be directly compared by this indicator. When making these comparisons, it's worth assuming that higher steam flow allows to handle a large amount of work faster, but requires more powerful heaters and larger tanks – which, in turn, affects the dimensions, weight and price of the entire steamer.
Safety valve
A protective attachment that prevents a critical increase in pressure in the working tank of the device. When the pressure reaches a critical value, the
safety valve opens and releases excess steam; this helps to avoid troubles such as damage to the boiler or even the explosion of the device and injury to people nearby.
Power cord rewind
The possibility of
power cord rewind on a special object installed directly on (in) the body of the steamer. This ensures at least additional convenience in storage/transportation — the power cord does not interfere during operation.
Note that for winding, a special coil is most often used — like those that are installed, for example, in vacuum cleaners. To unwind the wire from such a coil, you need to pull it, and the winding occurs automatically at the touch of a button. At the same time, the power cord does not have to be pulled out completely — you can choose the length so that it is guaranteed to reach the socket and at the same time does not create inconvenience. This provides additional comfort during work.
Power cord length
The length of the cable with which the device is connected to the mains. The longer the power cord — the farther from the socket the device can operate, the more freedom of movement the user has. On the other hand, an unnecessarily long cord can create difficulties both during operation and in storage/transportation; and when working away from the socket, you can use an extension cord.
