How to Descale Your Steam Iron to Keep the Steam Powerful
A major problem with irons is the buildup of calc, which makes it difficult to produce steam. By properly descaling the calc, the iron can be used for a long time. Here we introduce Panasonic's original maintenance methods for irons and how to prevent calc buildup.
Why Does Calc Build up?
To generate steam in an iron, putting water inside it is essential. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium in the water stick together inside the iron and build up as solids (calc) in the boiler and the sole. Calc can cause a decrease in steam power and malfunction, and can also adhere to clothes. For irons that use large amounts of water, preventing calc buildup is extremely important.
Maintenance Method for Panasonic Ironing Products
Maintenance for Steam Generator Iron
Make sure to drain the water from the tank after every use. Leaving water in the tank can cause calc deposits to form. Maintain the product regularly or when you notice any malfunction.
Drain the water from the tank.
Remove the bottom plug. Fill the boiler with 500-600ml of water, and rinse the inside several times.*¹
*1 This maintenance is recommended once a year for NI-GT500 with ADVANCED ANTI-CALC device, and once every 3 weeks for NI-GT200 without the device.
*Increase the maintenance frequency in hard water regions.
*Since hot water will splash out when handled immediately after use, let it cool down for 60 minutes before performing maintenance.
*When the problem persists, please contact the Customer Service Center.
Panasonic Original Features for Steam Generator Iron
Prevents Calc Formation with ADVANCED ANTI-CALC Technology
The anti-calc substance enters the tank with water through a device installed in the water supply hole. It covers the calc substance in the water to inhibit its crystallization and prevents it from adhering to the boiler and the sole. The calc residue is also in a brittle state and can be easily removed just by rinsing. Thanks to this technology, internal cleaning is required only about once a year*.
*Applicable for the NI-GT500 model.
*Usage of 2 to 3 times a week, with water of 250ppm classified under Very Hard.
*Depending on the region it is used and water quality, the product may need multiple descaling.
Comments from the Development Team
We developed the calc suppression technology with the intention to reduce the frequency of bothersome discharge of calc, and to create a generator that delivers steam with everlasting power. This is a unique technology that can inhibit the growth of calc crystals by releasing human-friendly substances also used in detergents into the water.
Easy Cleaning with One Step Anti-Calc
The simple structure of the inside of the boiler allows for thorough rinsing just by putting 500ml of water from the base. It can be used for a long time by following the internal cleaning routine approximately once a year for NI-GT500 with ADVANCED ANTI-CALC device, and once every 3 weeks for NI-GT200 without the device.
*Usage of 2 to 3 times a week, with water of 250ppm classified under Very Hard.
*Depending on the region it is used and water quality, the product may need multiple descaling.
Maintenance for Garment Steamer
Make sure to drain the water from the tank after every use. Leaving water in the tank can cause calc deposits to form. Internal cleaning should be done approximately once a month.
Remove the pole, tank, and hose from the main unit.
Drain the water inside from the hole where the hose was removed from.
To clean the inside of the main unit thoroughly, put water in the tank and set it on the main unit. Wait for 10 seconds until the water fills up the inside, and then drain the water again.
*When the problem persists, please contact the Customer Service Center.
*Since hot water will splash out when handled immediately after use, let it cool down well before performing maintenance.
Maintenance for Steam Iron
Make sure to drain the water from the tank after every use. Leaving water in the tank can cause calc deposits to form. Internal cleaning shown below should be done approximately once every 2 weeks.
Put water in the tank, turn the power on, and set the temperature to MAX. When the thermostat operating indicator light turns off, set the temperature to 0 and unplug.
Shoot the steam 20 to 30 times over a sink until the color of the steam becomes clear.
Drain the remaining water, insert the plug again, and set the temperature to MAX. Heat it for 5 minutes, then set the temperature to 0, and unplug.
*When the problem persists, please contact the Customer Service Center.
Panasonic Original Feature for Steam Iron
Prevents Calc Formation with Anti-calc Capsule
Anti-calc substance spreads into the water from the capsule set in the tank, preventing the crystallization of calc.
*Applicable for the NI-WL41 model.
Other Articles
Ironing Tips
Basic knowledge of how to ironproperly.
What Panasonic Values — Quality and Technology
Quality built on "super honesty". Technologies well-honed in 90years of history.
Our Passion for Iron
Development story of the “Multi-Direction Soleplate”
Products used in this article
NI-GT200ASK
Prevents calc buildup to ensure a constant stream of powerful steam (600*g/min) for professional results.
