Sapporo Demineralizer, In-Line Cartridge

The purpose of a demineralizer (or sometimes called a water softener) in steam irons is to prevent mineral deposits from building up inside the iron. These deposits, primarily calcium and magnesium ions found in hard water, can accumulate over time and clog the steam vents and passages within the iron.

Here's why a demineralizer is important:

1. Prevents Scale Build-Up: Hard water contains minerals that can precipitate out when heated, forming scale deposits. These deposits can block the steam vents and reduce the efficiency of the iron.

2. Prolongs Iron Life: By preventing scale build-up, a demineralizer helps prolong the life of the steam iron. Scale can cause damage to internal components and reduce the iron's effectiveness over time.

3. Improves Steam Quality: A clean water supply improves the quality of the steam produced by the iron. This ensures that the iron functions properly and provides consistent steam output for better ironing results.

4. Maintenance: Using a demineralizer reduces the frequency of descaling (removing scale manually) needed for the iron. This saves time and effort for the user.

In essence, the demineralizer acts as a filter or treatment mechanism to ensure that the water entering the iron is free from the minerals that cause scale, thereby improving the iron's performance and longevity.