Tefal Pro Express Steam Generator Iron - User Manual
Important Recommendations & Safety Instructions
Please read these instructions carefully before first use. This product is designed for domestic and indoor use only. Tefal accepts no responsibility for commercial use, inappropriate use, or failure to comply with instructions; the guarantee will not apply.
- Never unplug the appliance by pulling the power cord. Always unplug your appliance:
- before filling the water tank or rinsing the boiler,
- before cleaning the appliance,
- after each use.
- The appliance will not work without the anti-calc collector (depending on model).
- The appliance must be used and placed on a flat, stable, heat and water-resistant surface. When placing the iron on the iron rest, ensure the surface is stable.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced or impaired physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or persons lacking appropriate knowledge or experience, unless a person responsible for their safety provides supervision or appropriate instructions prior to use.
- Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
- This appliance may be used by children aged 8 or over and persons with reduced capabilities, provided they have been thoroughly instructed, are supervised, and understand the risks involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision. Keep the iron and its cord out of reach of children less than 8 years of age when it is energized or cooling down.
- The surfaces marked with this sign [hot surface symbol] and the soleplate are very hot during use. Do not touch these surfaces before the iron has completely cooled down.
- Never leave the appliance unattended when it is connected to the mains. Before storing, wait until it has cooled down (around 1 hour) after unplugging.
- Filling, decalcifying, rinsing, or inspecting apertures under pressure shall not be opened during use.
- Do not use any descaling products (vinegar, industrial descaling products, etc.) to rinse the boiler; they may damage the appliance.
- Before rinsing the boiler/anti-calc collector, wait until the appliance is completely cold and has been unplugged for at least 2 hours before unscrewing the boiler rinse cap/scale collector cover.
- Warning: If the boiler cap or boiler rinse cap (depending on model) is dropped or severely knocked, have it replaced by an Approved Service Centre as it may be damaged.
- Never fill the boiler directly from the tap.
- The boiler cap must not be opened during use.
- The appliance must not be used if it has been dropped, has any visible damage, leaks, or functions abnormally. Do not attempt to dismantle; have it examined at an Approved Service Centre.
- Check electrical power and steam cords for signs of wear or damage prior to use. If damaged, they must be replaced by an Approved Service Centre.
- Accessories, consumables, and end-user replaceable parts must be purchased only from Tefal or an Approved Service Centre.
- For your safety, this appliance conforms to all applicable regulations (Low Voltage Directive, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Environment, etc).
- Your steam generator iron is an electrical appliance for domestic use only.
- It is equipped with 2 safety systems: a pressure release valve and a thermal fuse.
- Check that your power supply voltage corresponds to that shown on the appliance (alternating current only). Any error in plugging in may cause irreversible damage and invalidate the guarantee.
- The appliance is to be connected to a socket-outlet having an earthing contact.
- Given the diverse standards in effect, if the appliance is used in a country other than that in which it is purchased, have it checked by an Approved Service Agent.
- Do not use an extension lead. If you accept liability for doing so, only use one in good condition, with an earth connection and suited to the power rating of the appliance.
- Completely unwind the power cord before plugging into an earthed socket.
- Do not leave the power cord close to or in contact with sources of heat or sharp edges.
- The soleplate and iron rest can reach extremely high temperatures and cause burns; do not touch them. Never touch electrical power cords with the soleplate.
- Always use a vented/mesh ironing board to prevent water spots and avoid hot steam venting sideways. Be careful of hot steam when ironing close to board edges. Never iron in a seated position with legs under the ironing board.
- Your appliance emits steam, which can cause burns. Always handle the iron with care, especially when ironing vertically. Never direct steam towards people or animals.
- Never immerse your steam generator iron in water or any other liquid. Never place it under a running tap.
PLEASE RETAIN THIS INSTRUCTION BOOKLET FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
Description
The Tefal Pro Express steam generator iron features several components for efficient operation.
Key Components:
- 1. Steam control button
- 2. Power cord storage button*
- 3. Retaining hoop for locking iron on the base unit*
- 4. Handle for removing and replacing the detachable water tank
- 5. Boiler (in the base unit)
- 6. Steam cord storage compartment
- 7. Anti-calc collector
Control Panel (8):
- a. [ON-OFF button] with light
- b. [Water tank empty] light and [OK button]
- c. [Anti-Calc] light and [OK button]
- d. [ECO button]
- e. Temperature adjustment buttons ([DELICATE], [NORMAL], [MAX])
9. Soleplate
* Depending on model
Preparation
What water may be used?
- Tap water: Your appliance is designed to function using untreated tap water. If your water is very hard, we recommend a mix of 50% untreated tap water and 50% distilled water.
- Types of water not to use: Do not use water from clothes dryers, scented or softened water, refrigerator water, battery water, air conditioner water, rain water, boiled, filtered, or bottled water. These can cause spitting, brown staining, or premature wear. Always use distilled water as advised if needed. Never use rainwater or water containing additives (like starch, fragrance).
Filling the water tank:
- Remove the detachable water tank using the handle.
- Fill the water tank without exceeding the Max level.
- Push it back into its housing until you hear a [click sound].
Use
Switch the steam generator on:
- The first time the appliance is used, there may be some fumes, smell, and rejection of particles, but this is not harmful and will disappear rapidly.
- Place the steam generator on a flat, stable, horizontal, heatproof, and waterproof surface.
- Ensure the base unit is positioned close enough to the ironing surface to avoid straining the steam cord.
- Completely unwind the power cord and take the steam cord out of its storage space.
- Plug your steam generator into an earthed socket.
- Press the [ON-OFF button].
- The [NORMAL button] and the light on the iron flash while the iron is warming up (approx. 2 minutes).
- If you wish to iron delicate fabrics first, press the [DELICATE button] before the iron reaches NORMAL temperature.
- The [DELICATE], [NORMAL], [MAX] buttons control temperature and steam combinations suitable for different fabrics. They can be selected at any time.
- The light of the selected button flashes until the iron is ready for use.
Operating the control panel:
- The light of the selected button flashes while the appliance is warming up.
- The red [Water tank empty] light flashing indicates the water tank is empty. See 'Refilling the tank during use'.
- The orange [Anti-Calc] light flashing indicates maintenance is required. See 'Maintenance and cleaning'.
- Your steam generator has an automatic shut-off system after approximately 8 minutes without use. Only the blue light of the [ON-OFF button] flashes, indicating standby. Press the [ON-OFF button] or steam control to resume ironing. See 'AUTO-OFF System'.
Steam ironing:
- When taking a break, always place the iron on the unit's iron rest.
- To obtain steam, press the steam control button under the iron handle. Steam stops when you release the button.
- Periodically, the electric pump injects water into the boiler, making a normal noise.
- If using starch, always spray it onto the reverse side of the fabric.
Smart Technology Auto Control & Settings:
Setting | Recommended Use | Fabrics Labelling | Examples |
---|---|---|---|
NORMAL | Best for all standard linen. | Cotton, wool*, silk, polyester, cashmere, mohair, viscose, and synthetic/cotton mixes. | |
MAX (Jeans) | Most effective for thick or difficult to iron fabrics. | Linen, thick cotton, jeans (dark colours). | |
DELICATE | Very gentle, for the most delicate items and sensitive colours. | Acetate, elastane, polyamide, acrylic and synthetic mixes. Note: do not use steam to iron acrylic or modacrylic fabrics. |
* If ironing woollen garments, press repeatedly on the steam control button without placing the iron on the garment to avoid it becoming shiny.
Warning: Fabrics with the symbol [not suitable for ironing symbol] are not suitable for ironing.
Start with fabrics requiring low temperature and finish with those needing higher temperature. If selecting a lower temperature, wait until the blue iron light has stopped flashing. If in doubt about fabric type, check the label.
ECO Function: Allows energy consumption reduction. Press the [ECO button] to change to or exit ECO mode.
Vertical steam ironing
- For fabrics other than linen or cotton, hold the iron a few centimetres from the garment to avoid burning.
- Hang the garment on a coat hanger and hold the fabric slightly taut with one hand.
- As steam is very hot, never attempt to remove creases from a garment while it is being worn.
- Holding the iron vertically, tilted slightly forwards, press repeatedly on the steam control button, moving the iron from top to bottom.
- To activate vertical steam ironing mode, press the [MAX button] for 5 seconds consecutively until both [MAX] and [NORMAL] buttons flash alternately.
- To exit this mode, press one of the buttons ([DELICATE]/[NORMAL]/[MAX]).
Dry ironing
Do not press the steam control button under the iron handle.
Refilling the tank during use
- When the red [Tank empty] light flashes, switch off and unplug the appliance.
- Remove the detachable water tank and fill it without exceeding the MAX level.
- Push it back into its housing until you hear a [click sound], then plug in the appliance and switch it on.
- Press the [OK button] on the control panel until the light goes out to continue ironing.
Steam Boost Function
Your appliance includes the Steam boost: automatic sequential steam for effortless use, particularly for thick fabrics. To obtain this function, press the steam control button three times in quick succession.
Maintenance and cleaning
Before cleaning, ensure your steam generator is unplugged (for at least two hours) and that the soleplate and iron have completely cooled down.
Cleaning your steam generator:
- Do not use detergent or descaling products for cleaning the soleplate or base unit.
- Never hold the iron or the base unit under the tap.
- Regularly clean the soleplate with a damp, non-metallic washing-up pad.
- Clean the plastic parts of the appliance occasionally with a soft cloth.
Easy descaling of your steam generator:
Your steam generator is equipped with a built-in scale collector to remove scale.
- The orange [Anti-Calc] warning light flashes on the control panel after about 10 uses, indicating maintenance is required. You can continue to iron normally but remember to rinse the anti-calc collector/boiler first before the next use.
- Before proceeding, check that the generator is cool and unplugged for more than 2 hours. This operation must not be carried out unless the steam generator has been unplugged for at least two hours and has cooled down completely. The generator must be close to a sink as water may come out when opened.
- Lift the tab and fully unscrew the anti-calc collector.
- To clean the anti-calc collector, simply rinse it under running water to remove any scale. You can also soak the collector rod in white vinegar or lemon juice for a few hours for stubborn scale.
- Place the anti-calc collector in its housing by screwing it in completely to ensure it is watertight, but do not overtighten.
- Put the tab back in place.
- Next time you use your appliance, press the [OK button] until the orange [Anti-Calc] light goes out.
- Boiler Rinse: In addition to regular maintenance, it is advisable to rinse the boiler tank out completely every 6 months or 25 uses, whichever is sooner.
- Check that the steam generator is cold and has been unplugged for at least 2 hours.
- Place the steam generator on the edge of your sink and stand the iron upright.
- Lift the tab, unscrew the anti-calc collector completely and remove it from the base unit.
- Hold your steam generator in an inclined position. Use a jug to fill the boiler with 1/4 litre of untreated tap water. Shake the base unit gently for a few seconds and then empty it completely into the sink.
- Place the anti-calc collector in its housing by screwing it in completely to ensure it is watertight, but do not overtighten.
- Put the tab back in place.
- Next time you use your appliance, press the [OK button] until the orange [Anti-Calc] light goes out.
AUTO-OFF System
- For your safety, the steam generator is fitted with an [AUTO-OFF] monitoring system, activated automatically after approximately 8 minutes without use.
- Only the [ON-OFF button] light flashes, indicating the appliance is on standby.
- To reactivate the steam generator: Press the [ON-OFF button]. Wait for the light to stop flashing before starting your ironing again.
- After approximately 30 minutes of non-use, the [AUTO-OFF] system switches off your steam generator completely. To start ironing again, press the [ON-OFF button].
Storing the steam generator
- Place the iron on the steam generator iron rest.
- Switch your steam generator off by pressing the [ON-OFF button] and unplug the appliance.
- Raise the retaining hoop over the iron until the protection system locks into place (audible click) (depending on model).
- Press the power cord storage button so that the power cord automatically retracts into its storage space (depending on model).
- Store the steam cord away in its compartment.
- Leave the steam generator to cool down completely before putting it away if storing in a cupboard or confined space.
- If storing in a cold place (approximately <10°C), put it in a warm place before starting ironing. Wait 1 hour for the iron to reach room temperature.
- You can store your steam generator safely by carrying it by the iron handle.
Problems with your steam generator?
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
The steam generator does not switch on or the iron indicator light and the [ON-OFF] light are not lit up. | The appliance is not switched on. The [AUTO-OFF] system has activated after 30 minutes of non-use. | Check that the appliance is plugged in correctly to a working power socket and that it is switched on. Press the [ON-OFF button]. Press the [ON-OFF restart button] located under the control panel. |
Water runs out of the holes in the soleplate. | The soleplate is not hot enough. Water has condensed in the pipes (first use or after a few minutes of no steam). Your ironing board cover is saturated (not suited for steam generator power). | Wait for the light on the iron and fabric selection light to stop flashing before activating the steam control. Press the steam button while holding your iron away from the ironing board until steam starts to come out. Ensure that you have a suitable vented/mesh ironing board. |
Water streaks appear on the linen. White streaks come through the holes in the soleplate. | Scale is coming out of the boiler because it is not being rinsed regularly. | Rinse the anti-calc collector (see 'Descaling your steam generator'). |
Brown streaks come through the holes in the soleplate and stain the linen. | You are using chemical descaling agents or additives in the water. Fabric fibres have accumulated in the holes of the soleplate and are burning. Your linen is not rinsed sufficiently or you have ironed a new garment before washing it. You are using starch. You are ironing at too high a temperature. | Never add any products to the water tank (see 'What water may be used?'). Clean the soleplate with a non-metallic sponge. Vacuum the holes from time to time. Ensure linen is rinsed thoroughly. Always spray starch on the reverse side of the fabric. See recommendations regarding temperature control settings. |
The soleplate is dirty or brown and may stain the linen. | You have cleaned your soleplate with an abrasive or metal pad. | See chapter 'Cleaning the soleplate' (use a non-metallic sponge). |
There is no steam or there is little steam. The red [tank empty] button is flashing even though the tank has been filled. | The water tank is empty (red warning light flashing). You have not pressed the [OK restart button]. The water tank is not clicked in firmly. | Fill the water tank and press the [OK button] until the light goes out. Press the [OK restart button] on the control panel. Ensure the water tank is firmly clicked into place. |
Steam comes out around the anti-calc collector. Steam or water is coming out from under the appliance. | The anti-calc collector is not tightened correctly. The anti-calc collector seal is damaged. | Tighten the anti-calc collector but do not overtighten it. Contact the Customer Relations Helpline. |
The [Anti-Calc] button is flashing even though the collector has been rinsed. | The appliance is faulty. | Stop using the steam generator and contact the Customer Relations Helpline. |
The soleplate is scratched or damaged. | You have put your iron down on a metal iron rest or ironed over zips or metal clasps. Your have cleaned your soleplate with an abrasive or metal pad. | Always stand the iron upright or on the iron rest. Do not iron over zips or metal clasps. See chapter 'Cleaning the soleplate'. |
The red [tank empty] light is flashing and the [ON-OFF button] does not work. | The appliance has been stored in a cold place (approximately <10°C). | Unplug the appliance. Wait 3 hours for the appliance to reach room temperature. |
Customer Support & Environment Protection
If you have any problems or queries, please call the Tefal Customer Relations team for expert help and advice:
- UK: 0345 602 1454
- Ireland: (01) 677 4003
- Consult our website: www.tefal.co.uk
Environment Protection: Your appliance contains valuable materials which can be recovered or recycled. Leave it at a local civic waste collection point.