PHILIPS GC1738/26

PHILIPS GC1738/26 Easyspeed Steam Iron User Manual

Model: GC1738/26

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your PHILIPS GC1738/26 Easyspeed 2000W Ceramic Autoshut Off Steam Iron. Please read this manual thoroughly before first use and retain it for future reference.

2. Important Safety Instructions

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.

  • Read all instructions before using the iron.
  • Do not leave the iron unattended while it is connected to the mains supply.
  • Always unplug the iron from the electrical outlet when filling with water, emptying, or when not in use.
  • Do not operate the iron with a damaged cord or if the iron has been dropped or damaged. Contact authorized service personnel for examination and repair.
  • Keep the iron and its cord out of reach of children.
  • Do not immerse the iron in water or other liquids.
  • Use the iron only for its intended purpose.
  • The soleplate can become extremely hot and cause burns. Avoid direct contact.
  • The iron features an automatic shut-off function for safety.

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components of your PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron.

PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron, angled view

Figure 1: Angled view of the PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron, showing the water tank, temperature dial, and spray button.

PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron, top view

Figure 2: Top view of the PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron, highlighting the water inlet and steam control.

  1. Water spray nozzle
  2. Water filling opening
  3. Steam control slider (Dry ironing, Steam, Max Steam)
  4. Spray button
  5. Steam boost button
  6. Temperature dial
  7. Indicator light
  8. Power cord
  9. Soleplate (Ceramic)
  10. Water tank (220ml capacity)
PHILIPS Easyspeed Steam Iron soleplate

Figure 3: Underside view of the ceramic soleplate, showing steam vents and product information.

4. Setup

4.1 Before First Use

  • Remove any stickers or protective foil from the soleplate.
  • It is normal for a slight odor or smoke to be emitted during the first few minutes of use. This will disappear after a short time.

4.2 Filling the Water Tank

  1. Ensure the iron is unplugged from the power outlet.
  2. Set the steam control slider to the 'Dry Ironing' position (no steam).
  3. Open the water filling opening.
  4. Fill the water tank with tap water up to the 'MAX' indication. Do not overfill.
  5. Close the water filling opening securely.

Note: For optimal performance and to prevent scale buildup, it is recommended to use demineralized or distilled water, especially in areas with hard water.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Temperature Setting

  1. Plug the iron into a suitable power outlet (240V).
  2. Turn the temperature dial to the desired setting based on the fabric type. Refer to the fabric care labels on your garments.
  3. The indicator light will illuminate, indicating the iron is heating up. It will turn off when the set temperature is reached.

Tip: Always start with lower temperatures for delicate fabrics and gradually increase for tougher materials.

5.2 Dry Ironing

  • Ensure the water tank is empty or the steam control slider is set to the 'Dry Ironing' position.
  • Set the temperature dial according to the fabric type.
  • Once the indicator light turns off, the iron is ready for dry ironing.

5.3 Steam Ironing

  • Fill the water tank as described in Section 4.2.
  • Set the temperature dial to the steam ironing range (usually indicated on the dial, e.g., '••' or '•••'). Steam is only generated at higher temperatures.
  • Once the indicator light turns off, set the steam control slider to the desired steam level (e.g., 'Steam' or 'Max Steam').
  • Begin ironing.

Caution: If the temperature is too low for steam, water may drip from the soleplate. Ensure the iron is sufficiently hot before activating steam.

5.4 Spray Function

  • Press the spray button to moisten stubborn creases.
  • Ensure the water tank contains water.

5.5 Steam Boost Function

  • For extra stubborn creases, press the steam boost button. This releases a powerful burst of steam.
  • Wait a few seconds between bursts to allow the iron to reheat and build up steam.
  • This function can also be used for vertical steaming of hanging garments.

5.6 Automatic Shut-Off

The PHILIPS GC1738/26 iron is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature for enhanced safety. If the iron is left unattended horizontally for approximately 30 seconds, or vertically for approximately 8 minutes, it will automatically switch off. The indicator light will flash to signal this. To restart the iron, simply move it, and it will begin heating up again.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

6.1 Cleaning the Soleplate

  • Allow the iron to cool down completely.
  • Wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner, if necessary.
  • Do not use abrasive scouring pads or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the ceramic coating.

6.2 Calc-Clean Function

To maintain optimal steam performance and prolong the life of your iron, perform the Calc-Clean function regularly, especially if you use tap water frequently or live in a hard water area. The product description mentions "Calc Clean".

  1. Ensure the iron is unplugged and cooled down.
  2. Fill the water tank to the MAX level.
  3. Plug in the iron and set the temperature dial to maximum.
  4. Once the indicator light turns off, unplug the iron.
  5. Hold the iron over a sink, press and hold the Calc-Clean button (if present, or follow specific instructions for your model's Calc-Clean mechanism, often integrated with the steam control or a dedicated button).
  6. Gently shake the iron back and forth. Hot water and steam, along with scale particles, will be expelled from the soleplate.
  7. Continue until the water tank is empty.
  8. Plug in the iron again, let it heat up, and iron an old cloth to dry the soleplate.

Note: The exact procedure for Calc-Clean may vary slightly. Refer to the specific markings on your iron for the Calc-Clean button or setting.

6.3 Storage

  • Unplug the iron and allow it to cool down completely.
  • Empty any remaining water from the tank.
  • Wrap the power cord neatly around the cord wrap area (if available) or secure it with a tie.
  • Store the iron upright on its heel rest in a safe, dry place.

7. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Iron does not heat up.Not plugged in; power outlet faulty; automatic shut-off activated.Check power connection; try another outlet; move the iron to reactivate.
No steam or insufficient steam.Water tank empty; temperature too low; steam control set to 'Dry Ironing'; scale buildup.Fill water tank; set higher temperature; adjust steam control; perform Calc-Clean.
Water drips from soleplate.Temperature too low for steam; iron tilted too much.Increase temperature; ensure iron is sufficiently hot before steaming; keep iron level.
White flakes coming from soleplate.Scale buildup in the water tank.Perform Calc-Clean function. Use demineralized water.

8. Specifications

  • Model: PHILIPS GC1738/26
  • Power: 2000W
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Soleplate: Ceramic
  • Water Tank Capacity: 220ml
  • Special Features: Automatic Shut-off, Drip Stop, Calc Clean
  • Dimensions: Approximately 3.05 x 1.32 x 1.59 cm (Product); 910 g (Item Weight)

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official PHILIPS website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Online Support: www.philips.com/support

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