Rowenta Focus Troubleshooting

Steam is not visible when using iron.

Not all of the steam holes release steam, the smaller holes on the soleplate that look like they might be steam holes are actually designed to assist soleplate glide ability.

Some irons (depending on model) can produce steam when set on the One dot setting. However, the majority of Rowenta irons will only produce steam when set on the 2 dot or 3 dot setting. When you look at your iron's thermostat dial you will notice that the 2 dot and 3 dot settings have a shaded background, this indicates that the iron will produce steam when the dial is set inside this shaded area.

There may not be enough water left in the tank. Fill it up to the MAX level.

The steam button may be stuck or not working to release steam. Follow the Steam Button Replacement guide.

While on/off water is leaking from the iron.

Check that the heat setting is hot enough to cause the water to turn into steam, otherwise the iron could leak.

A mineral called Lime can build up over time from the use of tap water, to clear this buildup, fill your tank fully with water and set it to steam until all the water has evaporated. Do this one more time and your tank and steam holes will be clean.

Similar to an unclean water tank or steam holes, a mineral called Lime can cause buildup on the heat plate causing it to leak water. In minor cases all you need to do is wipe it down, if this is unsuccessful take a damp rag with dish soap and scrub. Take care not to use an abrasive brush or harmful cleaning chemicals. If the residue cannot be removed, follow the Soleplate Replacement Guide.

Most irons are made for tap water only and do not have the capability to successfully use distilled or drinking water, make sure to only be using tap water in the iron or it could leak and cause other mechanical problems.

Iron will not get hot once plugged in.

Check the heat setting on the iron. Sometimes it will be turned down or too low for the iron to get noticeably hot. Turn the dial up on the heat setting to increase heat. If the dial is not working, follow the Knob Replacement Guide.

Check to see if the power cord is plugged into a working outlet and the power indicator light is lit. If the light is not on, try a different outlet. If this does not work, follow the Power Cord Replacement Guide.

If there is a buildup of residue or minerals on the iron plate, this can prevent the iron from getting hot. Wait for the iron to become cool and clean off the plate. If the plate cannot be cleaned, follow the Soleplate Replacement Guide.

If everything else seems to be in working order, there could be a problem with the heating element of the iron. Follow the Heating Element Replacement Guide to replace the heating element.

When the spray button on the iron is pushed, no water spray comes out.

Check the water tank level. If the water in the water reservoir is low, fill the tank to the maximum water amount.

If the spray button is stuck or broken, follow the Spray Button Replacement Guide to fix the problem.

A spray feature can become clogged due to a building up of mineral deposits in the tube. If the spray button is pushed and water drips out slowly, the tube is probably clogged. Using a vinegar and water solution, run it through the iron to clean the spray feature.

When using the iron, it shuts off automatically.

The iron has an electronic auto-stop system that cuts off the power supply. The auto-stop light will flash if the iron is plugged in and has not moved for more than eight minutes or if it is left flat for more than 30 seconds. In order to turn the iron back on, gently shake the iron until the light goes out. If the problem persists or the timing of the system is off, you may have a faulty power cord. Follow the Power Cord Replacement Guide in order to repair this issue.

Make sure the outlet being used is working. Use another outlet to check if the iron is working. If it is the iron, the power cord is likely the issue. Follow the Power Cord Replacement Guide in order to repair this issue.

If the iron continues to randomly shut off, and it is not solved by changing the outlet or power cord, it is likely that the circuit board is faulty. Follow the Circuit Board Replacement Guide to resolve this issue.