A professional-grade carpet cleaning machine is a must-have for building service contractors who clean a variety of floor types. It is essential to choose the right carpet cleaning machine for the type of work you want to do.
Here are some things to consider when buying a carpet cleaning machine.
Type of Extractors
There are two main types of carpet cleaning machines: canister and stand-alone. Canister/box and stick types are easier to maneuver and are great for cleaning smaller or tight areas. Stick cleaners also help you clean upholstery and hard-to-reach areas. But this type does not offer a rotating beater brush that removes more dirt from the carpet. Stick cleaners require the operator to physically agitate the carpet. To use the agitating carpet brush feature, you need to choose a stand-alone cleaner. This type agitates more dirt from the carpet and can clean larger areas faster. But they may not be as portable and, depending on the specific model, may not have a stick attachment for cleaning furniture.
Vacuum Motor Options
Generally speaking, the larger the motor, the better the vacuuming performance. There are two types: two-stage and three-stage vacuum motors. Three-stage motors vacuum better than two-stage motors, primarily because of the increased water lift. Increased water lift means that it takes less time for carpets to dry and be walkable-typically a key need in most facilities.
Heater and Tank Capacity
While it is possible to remove dirt particles from carpets without using hot water, many professional cleaners prefer this method, as studies have shown that hot water breaks down oily residues better and helps detergents work more effectively. Therefore, a built-in water heater is an important consideration for a carpet cleaning machine. A heater is usually an option for canister cleaners. If your carpet cleaning machine has a heater, fill the water tank with hot water from the tap. You should also consider the size of the water collection tank. Smaller tanks require more frequent emptying, which reduces operator efficiency.
Battery Power
Carpet cleaning machines are typically available in both corded and battery versions. Battery cleaners save time because operators don't have to search for multiple power sources during the cleaning process. The cord also doesn't get tangled in furniture, fixtures, or damage corners during operation. In addition, battery-powered carpet cleaning machines reduce the risk of tripping accidents that can occur during operation.
Pump Pressure
The pump of a carpet cleaner sprays the cleaning solution onto the carpet. The PSI (pounds per square inch) of the pump determines the pressure at which the solution is sprayed. Some cleaners have adjustable PSI, allowing the operator to vary the pressure based on fabric type or amount of dirt, while others only spray at preset levels.
Facility Needs
The unique needs of your facility may determine the type of carpet extractor to purchase. First, refer to the specific carpet manufacturer's recommendations for extraction. The carpets in your building may have specific cleaning guidelines. Also consider:
The building's geographic location (are there frequent traces of snow and ice?)
Traffic (Is the carpet located in a high-traffic area of the building?)
There is food, so there will be spills (Do I need to clean the carpet in a carpeted restaurant or break room?)
Type of business (Is this a high-profile retail store where image is key?)
Vendor Support
Be sure to choose a vendor that provides ongoing customer support and OEM parts. You may need help troubleshooting problems or even on-site training to ensure your carpet cleaner is working properly. Ask about after-sales support as you weigh the pros and cons of a specific model.
Carpet cleaning machines are a necessity for professional cleaners who want to ensure their building looks great. These tips will help you determine the type of cleaning machine that will suit your needs.