Understanding the System Is Key
Before diagnosing any issues, it’s important to understand how the steam generator works. A basic knowledge of its components and process flow makes it much easier to identify malfunctions, ensure proper maintenance, and prevent costly breakdowns.
Manages all operations of the steam generator via signals from the external control panel.
Opens to allow water into the tank at the beginning of and throughout the steam cycle.
Detect and maintain the correct water level inside the tank.
Boil the water in the tank to generate steam.
Drains residual water after each session to prevent mineral buildup and keep the tank clean.
Shuts off power to the heating elements if the unit operates without water. Manual reset is required.
A steam generator produces steam by boiling water inside a sealed tank. Here's a simplified step-by-step overview:
The user sets a desired temperature and timer via the external control panel.
The control board activates the water inlet valve to begin filling the tank.
The water level sensors monitor the fill level. Once the correct level is reached, the inlet valve closes.
The heating elements are activated, boiling the water and producing steam, which is sent into the steam room.
As steam is used, the water level drops. The sensors detect this and signal the control board to reopen the inlet valve for refilling.
Once the session ends, the drain valve opens to remove remaining water. This prevents lime scale buildup and keeps the system clean.
⚠️ Important Note on Malfunctions
If any component (e.g., water inlet valve, water level sensor, heating element) fails due to lime scale, wiring issues, or age, the system may experience:
Routine inspection and maintenance of all components are essential to ensure reliable performance.
Problem: The steam generator ran without water, triggering the overheating protection system.
Solution: Reset the high-limit switches located at the back of each heating element.
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How to Reset:
Problem: The tank fills, but no steam is produced.
Solution: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the heating element if it fails the test.
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Problem: The drain valve is open, draining water continuously, so the system can't reach the proper water level.
Solution: Inspect for debris or magnet failure. Disconnect and reconnect the wires to reset the valve. If faulty, replace the valve.
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Problem: The keypad and main unit are not communicating due to a loose wire.
Solution: Check the wiring between the control keypad and PCB for secure connections.
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Problem: If all other components are working, the PCB may be faulty and not sending the correct signals.
Solution: Replace the PCB if confirmed faulty.
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Problem: Jammed or Defective Inlet Valve. If the inlet valve doesn’t close properly, water may continue filling the tank and overflow as hot water instead of steam.
Solution: Clean the mesh/net filter inside the valve. Disconnect and reconnect the valve wiring to reset it. Replace the valve if the issue continues.
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Problem: Faulty or Disconnected Water Level Sensor. If cold water (instead of steam) exits the steam head, the water level sensor may be disconnected or malfunctioning. The control board won't know when to turn on the heating elements or close the inlet valve, which can lead to:
Additional Cause: If the drain valve is stuck open, water drains continuously and the system never reaches the required level to activate heating.
Solutions:
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Problem: One or more heating elements are inactive, reducing steam output.
Solution: Test each heating element with a multimeter. Replace any that fail continuity.
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Problem: Excessively long or bent pipes restrict steam flow. (Especially for new installations)
Solution: Re-route the steam pipe to be as short and straight as possible.
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Problem: If water doesn’t reach proper levels, steam output is reduced.
Solution: Check and secure wiring. Clean or replace sensor as needed. Inspect the drain valve in case of hidden water loss.
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