Frequently Asked Questions
About One Step Dry Steam Cleaning and Sanitizing Systems

Where does the dirt go?

There are several natural forces at work when the AmeriVap system cleans:

  1. The first force at work is heat  - which weakens the physical bond that holds dirt and stains to surfaces.  The AmeriVap produces vaporized water that is held at a temperature of around 290 degrees inside the system's heating tank.
  2. The second force is water, referred to as nature's most perfect solvent.  The AmeriVap converts water to 94% dry, superheated dry steam vapor.  How dry?  Imagine taking eight minutes to pour out an 8-oz. glass of water.  That's how little moisture is in the vapor during normal use.
  3. The third force is scrubbing action - which can be applied to the surface being cleaned by using an array of attachments.  (No hard scrubbing is necessary).  As dirt and stain particles are loosen from a surface, the particles are suspended in water droplets resulting from the vapor.
  4. At this point a fourth natural force removes the stain and dirt particles...Water always flows in the direction of least resistance.  Cotton towels (which are more absorbent) offer less resistance than almost any other type of material.  Superheated steam vapor passed through a cotton towel makes the towel hot, but just slightly moist.  The towel "sucks Up" everything that is suspended in the resulting water droplets, and the dirt is embedded into the fibers of the towel

This combination of forces works well on almost any surface type.  

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What is the #1 Germ Killer in the World?

Heat, in the form of steam vapor, has long been used in medical environment (hospitals, dentists, etc.) to sterilize surgical instruments and equipment. Did you know that disinfectants such as bleaches and even quaternary compounds are effective only if the surface to which they are applied is free of organic compounds, i.e. clean? That the effectiveness of disinfectants are measured in terms of germ reduction based on exposure to temperature. The AmeriVap makes it simple and very cost effective to clean and control germs as it uses steam vapor in excess of 220 degrees.

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How does it work?

Our vapor systems use electricity to heat the water in it's tank, creating steam under pressure.  When the pressure reaches approximately 65 psi, the temperature of the steam reaches about 290° F and the moisture content of the steam goes down to about 5%.  An electrically controlled solenoid valve releases pressure from the tank, and pressure to the tip is regulated with a manual valve similar to a water faucet.  The steam travels from the tank to the nozzle through a pressure line inside an insulated hose.  At the tip, the variety of brushes or other accessories allows the steam to reach the dirty surface while brushing action is applied, releasing and removing the dirt and stain particles from the surface you are cleaning.

With the AmeriVap System you clean, sanitize and deodorize all at the same time and leave no chemical residue, which may effect food or be detrimental to the surface you are cleaning. The hot steam vapor penetrates the pores of the materials cleaned and destroys mold spores, bacteria, viruses and germs of all kinds. This proven process is the single most effective method of sanitizing known to man.

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If the steam is over 200 degrees and under pressure, isn’t steam cleaning dangerous? 

No. While the steam pressure at the nozzle tip is around 220 degrees our units are design so that the steam temperature at about 6” away from the nozzle tip feels cool to the touch.  Further, our units operate using low-pressure to work effectively.  Our application tools are designed to dissipate the low steam pressure quickly and safely.  The AmeriVap System is designed with safety features (i.e. pressure release valves, thermostats and solid-state electronics) to allow safe usage.  Finally, each AmeriVap System comes with complete operating instructions, step-by-step video, and safety tips for many years of service without risk.  

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I know every area of my home is important but what are the most critical areas to keep clean?

 Your right.  Every area is important, but the kitchen has to be at the top of the list.  After all, it’s where we prepare what the family eats.  Counter tops, stoves, ovens, refrigerators, cutting boards – these areas must be clean and free of chemicals.  Next, is the bathroom. It goes without saying; they’ve got to be sparkling clean and sanitary.  And the best way to keep them that way is to use the AmeriVap System on the showers, tubs, commodes, and basins.  After that, comes bedrooms – the walls, ceilings, even mattresses and pillows must be sanitized.

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Is the AmeriVap System environmentally safe?

Using only potable water heated to a temperature in excess of 290 degrees and distilled as you use it, the AmeriVap does not use any chemicals, suspect solvents, cancer causing chlorine's, germicides, pesticides or herbicides to get the job done. Therefore, it is safer and simpler to use and does not introduce toxic substances into our homes and bodies. Detrimental effects of long-term exposure to many household cleaning chemicals and their associated waste are only now beginning to be understood. Only a steam vapor system eliminates this harmful potential. Why take chances with your most precious asset - YOUR HEALTH.

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Will it help to reduce allergies and respiratory ailments?

We are continually exposed to germs, viruses, and the residue from millions of very small creatures called dust mites. These tiny organisms live everywhere we do; our clothes, bedding, carpets and upholstery. Research has shown that the excrement from these tiny creatures play a major role in many respiratory problems and indoor air pollution. The only way to effectively combat their presence is through the very high temperature of live steam vapor. This is the only known way to destroy them! The AmeriVap is uniquely beneficial for those who suffer from such a situation.

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Is it economical?

Americans spend over $4 BILLION per year on household cleaners that are ultimately washed down the drain to contaminate our food chain and precious, limited, fresh water supplies. The AmeriVap System is non-consumptive and uses only a very small amount of water to produce thousands of gallons of natures best cleaning solvent, dry steam vapor. This can dramatically reduce waste and water consumption.  Best of all it saves us from pouring our hard earned dollars down the drain.

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What if the system needs service in the future?

AmeriVap Systems was the pioneer in introducing steam vapor cleaning to the United States 11 years ago.  We are proud to be still recognized as the innovator today.  Our products are the standard by which others are judged.  We carry a complete product line, of products which extends from residential units, which cost a few hundred dollars to commercial units that can range up to almost $ 50,000.  Repair parts can be shipped within 24 hours and can generally be delivered the next day.  We take pride in our state of the art service department designed to provide quality service.

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Is there technical support for unusual jobs?

AmeriVap furnishes all of its customers with a copyrighted step-by-step manual, "Guide for Using an AmeriVap System".  We also have a toll-free technical support number for greater convenience.

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What about special accessories?

AmeriVap Systems has developed a unique combination of high capacity systems with over 40 accessories designed to facilitate most tough jobs.  In addition, AmeriVap has designed an array of durable custom-built carts that are specifically for tough commercial use.   

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Will the superheated water vapor damage or shrink fabrics?

Practically none.  Most fabrics that shrink do so because of exposure to hot water that soaks the fibers and subjects them to high residual heat.  The moisture content of the AmeriVap's vapor is so low that heat dissipates quickly.  Exceptions are silk and certain very delicate fabrics, which can be damaged just by heat alone.

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The Blitz Pad
A revolutionary cleaning tool for use with the AmeriVap Vapor Cleaning Systems.  Nothing will escape the cleaning power of the combination of superheated vapor with the scrubbing power of our assorted abrasive pads.


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