A Shark Steam Mop is quite a fantastic device to keep your home neat and clean. But what do you do when it suddenly stops steaming one day? Don’t panic, it can be fixed easily, and you can do it yourself.
A Shark Steam Mop might be blocked and not produce steam, making it unusable. From insufficient water in the tank to a clogged nozzle, there could be many common reasons why your steam mop doesn’t produce steam. But most of these issues can be resolved by following some simple steps.
These detailed instructions will help you take care of some of the simple issues resulting in your Shark Steam Mop not steaming. For other complex problems, it is better to consult a professional.
How Do I Know When My Steam Mop is Not Steaming?
When you turn your Shark Steam Mop on, the blue light on the device illuminates. It takes about 30 seconds for the mop to heat up and the steam to be ready. If you are a new user and wondering how to use the Shark Steam Mop, check out a simple guide.
The indicator might not be on if your device doesn’t start steaming. Moreover, it will leave dirt and cloudy marks on the floor even after cleaning.
Why Doesn’t My Shark Steam Cleaner Steam Up?
The problem with the Shark Steam Mop not blowing steam can occur if it gets clogged with mineral deposits or if the water tank is empty. There could be some other reasons, let’s quickly take a look at them.
Lack of water in the water tank: A common problem with a Shark steam mop not steaming up is that there might be no water in the tank. You might forget to fill the tank with the cleaner and unknowingly start cleaning with it.
Powering up an empty steam mop can damage the device, and your warranty can also be cancelled. So, it is essential to double-check your device before plugging it in to ensure that there is enough water to produce steam.
Blocked nozzle: Usually, the block is due to the deposit of calcium in the mop nozzle. Water contains hydrogen, oxygen, and other minerals. When it steams, it releases calcium and leaves behind other minerals. These get clogged at the jet that shoots steam.
Leakage of water: During steam mopping, the steam might not get produced due to the pressure mounting inside the machine. Due to pressure leakage, it will not steam up. Due to low pressure, the heating process is hampered.
Lack of heating: Your Shark steam mop might not heat properly to release steam. Make sure it is properly plugged into the source. There might be a problem with the heating filament, which might need replacement.
Lack of cleaning: Sometimes, poor maintenance and cleaning can lead to damage and scaling of the internal parts. This can also interfere with the heating process that produces the steam. So, cleaning the device thoroughly inside out at regular intervals is very important for proper functioning and maintenance.
How Can I Fix The Issue Of My Steam Mop Not Producing Steam?
Steps to clean the nozzle:
A blocked nozzle must be cleaned by decalcifying. You will need cotton swabs, vinegar, distilled water, and some sharp, pointy objects like paper clips.
Step 1: Unplug your steam mop and let it cool down.
Step 2: Empty the water tank completely.
Step 3: Use a straightened-out paper clip to clean the spray tip. Insert it inside and move it backwards. It will help to loosen debris and release them.
Step 4: Pour some white vinegar on the mop head area. Then, gently rub it with a duster. It helps to clean up the mop head and avoids further buildup for some time.
Let it dry, and then turn on your device to check if it is working properly. You can also try another cleaning method.
Make a solution with 50% vinegar and 50% distilled water. Keep it overnight inside your Shark steam mop water tank. Then, turn on the steam mop and set the steam setting at the highest level. Keep it over a sink; you will notice a lot of debris and sediments coming out.
Once you feel that it is clean, let it dry for some time and then use it for cleaning.
Steps to ensure no leakage:
Step 1: Fill the water tank and check the mop’s bottom cap.
Step 2: Ensure that it is tightly fitted and well secured in place.
Step 3: If you see water leaking out, you might have to replace the cap or call your manufacturer if your device is still under warranty.
Steps to clean the mop regularly:
To ensure that your Shark steam mop releases steam and works properly to do the cleaning job effectively, you must also clean it periodically.
Step 1: Open the main body of the steam mop and remove the tank.
Step 2: Empty the water tank completely.
Step 3: Rinse the mop properly and remove mineral deposits.
Step 4: Fill the tank with distilled water after cleaning the tank’s inner side.
You can press the steam button of your Shark Steam Mop regularly. It helps to remove the deposits from the tank slowly. Though it takes a little time in the process, you will get a cleaner device.
Steam Mops are great for household cleaning and are environmentally friendly as well. Unlike regular mops, steam mopping doesn’t leave a residue on the floor. The heat of steam mops can disinfect the floor by killing around 99% of the bacteria.
Steam cleaning mops sanitize, restore shine, and remove certain stains from your floor. It might be a bit frustrating if your Shark steamer is not working.
If your steam mop is not steaming up, don’t worry, as you can fix the minor issues yourself. You must follow the cleaning process of Shark Steam Mops regularly to maintain your device in proper condition. You might have to contact an engineer for help with certain internal faults.