Lime

 

Limescale
Limescale is THE enemy of every steam generator. Yet, an electrode steam generator actually requires limescale to function. This is precisely why a steam tank (with electrodes) is designed to be easily replaceable. In professional use, this should be done approximately once a year. 

A steam generator with heating elements should not have any limescale at all. The evaporation of water would otherwise cause limescale buildup on the elements. This buildup prevents the heating elements from effectively transferring heat to the water, which can cause them to burn out. We therefore strongly advise ALWAYS installing a water softener before the steam generator to reduce limescale to zero. The water will then no longer be suitable as drinking water.