I learned to check wattage for a different reason. I used an hourly timer for the iron. Set it for 2 hours, and if I forgot to turn it off, the timer turned it off. Took a good look at the Rowenta steam generator and it was only supposed to be used for 1400 watts.
What happens if you spritz your fabric with a spray bottle, then iron? If the iron works then, your spray may be wonky.
It could also be your steam pattern, how and when, not how hot the iron gets. Check the wattage on some of the Rowentas since they seem to be the most common, and then check the reviews and ratings. Amazon should have a few of those, plus other iron mfg.
I find my Reliable Velocity working far better than a Rowenta steam generator. You have to fill it more and the Reliable doesn't feel like it's heavier than the Rowenta.