The Thermocolor RHTC101’s features and steaming capabilities proved that it definitely offers good value. Its design is a little clunky but its shot of steam was the most powerful tested.
Setting up
Remove all packaging form the iron before use.
Features
The main feature of the Thermocolor is its changing coloured lights that indicate the iron’s temperature. Initially a user may need the manual to decipher the meaning of the colours. Once this is understood the colour function is useful in determining the right temperature for particular fabrics.
On the cooler temperatures the iron’s water chamber is blue, indicating it is suitable for more delicate fabrics such as silk and nylon. As the iron heats up the water chamber turns green then pink for wool and polyester. On its hottest settings it turns red indicating its appropriateness for cotton and linen.
Performance
The iron performed well enough on nylon, cotton, denim and linen fabrics. However, the iron felt a little clunky to use and it was a little harder to manoeuvre than other irons we tested. The spray was a little misdirected as it covered a wide area of space. Its base felt heavy, which seemed to drag the iron when it was in motion. Its cord didn’t swivel out of the way very easily, and it sometimes got in the way when trying to rest the iron on its heel. However, the definite plus for this iron is its steam capability and no-drip performance. It delivered the most powerful shot of steam out of the irons tested. The shot was delivered immediately without the need for extra pumping and there was no water spotting, a trait that none of the other irons managed to do. Difficult ironing jobs were made simple with the steam function of this iron. Also, when the iron was turned off and rested on its soleplate it didn’t leak any water, another trait none of the other irons managed to achieve.
The iron’s buttons use minimal words, relying on the user to determine the meaning of its icons. This hindered the usability of the iron, meaning a more than probable visit to the manual.
Luckily, the manual is clearly labelled and easily understood with short yet comprehensive instructions. Its cord wraps neatly around the base of the iron for easy storage.
In terms of cleaning, it wipes down easily but fabric did stick to the soleplate on a hot setting, which made cleaning more of a challenge.
Conclusion
Once the Thermocolor’s functionality is fully understood, the coloured temperature lights are definitely a bonus. The good price and superior steaming performance makes up for the iron’s slightly clunky design and not-so-smooth manoeuvrability.
Reviewer: Trina Tune
How can I get a copy of the instructions for the RHTC101 ? I have one and don’t know how to self clean.
No manual – it is too old 2008. Here is what I found
SELF CLEAN
To prevent residues building up, use the Self Clean button regularly, at least monthly in normal water areas, more often in hard water areas. You will require a sink or a large bowl to catch the water coming out of the soleplate.
• Fill the tank to the ‘max’ level.
• Sit the iron on its heel.
• Plug the power cord into the wall power outlet, and switch it on.
• Turn the temperature control dial to ‘max’. Wait until the temperature light switches off.
• Hold the iron over the basin or bowl, with the soleplate facing down.
• Press the Self Clean button and hold, whilst gently moving the iron to and fro over the sink or bowl.
CAUTION: Keep clear of the escaping water and steam.
• Water and steam will wash any residues through the soleplate, and into the sink or bowl.
• Release the self clean button when done.
• Empty the remaining water from the tank.
• Turn the temperature control dial to ‘synthetic’, move the steam control to no steam.
• Unplug the iron, and sit the iron on its heel to cool.
• When it is cold, wipe off any moisture.
• Store the iron on its heel, to avoid corrosion and damage to the soleplate