Electric irons are simple small appliances that require only routine maintenance to keep them ironing for years. And if they do need fixing, they are relatively easy to troubleshoot and repair.

How Does It Work?

Whether it's a basic no-frills iron, a cordless model, a compact travel iron, or an electronic iron loaded with features, all steam irons work in the same way. They press out wrinkles in fabric using moisture, pressure, and heat. When the steam valve is closed, the iron operates dry. When the steam valve is open, water drips into a heated steam chamber, where it exits as steam through vents in the soleplate. The iron's working surface, the soleplate, may be plain metal or coated with an easy-to-clean nonstick material.

What Can Go Wrong?

Fortunately, there is very little inside a well-made iron that can go wrong. Most repairs are for faulty cords, damaged handles, and mineral deposits that hamper steam irons. Problems with an iron's electronic complements should be dealt with by an authorized service center. It typically is more cost effective to replace rather than repair an iron with internal problems. Check the owner’s manual for your iron to learn the manufacturer’s suggestions for cleaning, what water to use, and storage tips.

Fix-It Tip

Soft-water systems add minerals that can harm an electric steam iron and your clothes so don't fill the iron with softened water. Instead, use filtered or distilled water.