A complete replacement for traditional cigarettes was IQOS (Aykos). But when used on the device, a plaque forms, which must be cleaned. Therefore, most users will find it useful to learn how to clean an iikos.
Cleaning frequency
The need for cleaning occurs after several weeks of regular use. During this time, a black coating appears on the heating element. These are tarry deposits released when tobacco is heated.
A brush is supplied with the device, but processing with this tool will not help if the layer of tar is thick.
Cleaning is done so that the heated soot does not spoil the sensation when smoking. In the presence of plaque, an unpleasant bitter aftertaste appears.
The manufacturer recommends cleaning after using 20 sticks. But users are advised to start the procedure immediately after a change in taste is felt.
If the device is used regularly, then clean it with a regular brush daily. But such maintenance can only delay the need for more thorough cleaning.
You can, of course, contact the IQOS service center, but then the cleaning procedure will take a lot of time and will cost money. Therefore, most users prefer to conduct it at home.
Automation
The manufacturer has provided for automatic cleaning of the heating element of the device. It turns on without user intervention after using 20 sticks. The heating element is heated to a temperature exceeding the working one, and part of the plaque simply burns out.
During the cleaning process, a green indicator flashes on the device case. When the process is completed, IQOS will automatically recharge.
If necessary, you can start the built-in cleaning forcibly, without waiting for the right number of sticks to be used. To enable the mode, you must press the clear key and hold it recessed. A signal on the inclusion of the mode will be a blinking indicator.
The built-in mode is convenient, but not effective enough. Therefore, from time to time you will have to carry out manual cleaning.
Special brush included
Manual cleaning brushes are included in the package, but if necessary they can be purchased separately.
According to user reviews, the best option for the brush is the EC 100.
Manual cleaning instructions:
- Perform automatic cleaning as described above.
- Disconnect the device and wait until it cools completely.
- Remove the top cap to allow access to the heating elements.
- Put the holder on a long brush and begin cleaning, making a circular motion.
- Continue cleaning until the element is completely free of carbon deposits.
- Clean the cap by putting it on the short brush holder.
- Gently tap on the IQOS body to remove any particles of carbon that could adhere to the walls.
- After completing work, clean the brushes and holders themselves.
This procedure takes only 10-15 minutes. If you perform it regularly, then you can use the device for a long time without feeling a change in taste.
During scraping, you must try not to touch the blades, so as not to spoil the device.
Cotton buds
It is convenient to use special sticks for cleaning IQOS, the tips of which are soaked in cleaning fluid. This accessory for service can only be bought at specialized retail outlets, as well as in some online stores. It is not easy to get special sticks, and they are expensive. Therefore, many use the most common cotton buds.
You need to clean as carefully as possible so as not to break the fragile elements of the device located inside.
Dry sticks can be removed only a thin coating. To increase the cleaning efficiency, cotton buds are moistened in formic alcohol. It should be used formic, and not ethyl (medical) alcohol.
Do not allow alcohol to get on the blades, so as not to provoke the development of corrosion. Therefore, alcohol wipes can not be used to clean the internal surfaces.
Cleaning with alcohol will be more effective, but an unpleasant aftertaste may remain after the process. Therefore, ant alcohol should be used only as a last resort, if there is no other way. Instead, it is better to purchase a special liquid for cleaning heating elements in the IQOS salon.
Cleaning is carried out as follows:
- Cotton buds are dipped in a liquid so that they are well saturated, and not just soaked on top.
- With a stick, the internal surfaces are carefully treated, trying to remove plaque.
- The movements should be circular and light.
- After completing the cleaning, you need to turn the device over and knock it on the table so that the particles of soot falling to the bottom are removed.
During operation, you need to remember that the blade is the most vulnerable and fragile part of the device. You cannot clean it yourself; you should contact a service center. Manufacturers report that it is impossible to clean the blades without special equipment and skills.
So, if necessary, clean Aykos yourself is better to use a special brush. Cotton buds are convenient, but using them increases the risk of damaging the device.