When choosing a sweeper, here are the important criteria to take into account:
Size and type of surface to be cleaned: the size of the sweeper must correspond to the size of the surface to be cleaned and the time available to the agent to return the area to be cleaned to traffic. Cleaning companies will often have a time constraint in this context. Indeed, as with a scrubber-dryer , the sweeper has a practical and theoretical output in terms of the number of m2 per hour achievable. This output is determined by the width of the machine and its forward speed at which obstacles are weighted.
The different features of a sweeper
Type of debris to be removed: Some sweepers are more suited to light debris, while others are designed for heavier debris. The size and volume of the debris should also be taken into account, as should the protocol for roughing up the surface with a broom.
Waste collection capacity: check the capacity of the waste bin and how often it needs to be emptied. The size of the bottom will also determine the autonomy , which will itself be limited by the duration of the intervention .
Mobility and maneuverability: Consider the sweeper's wheels and steering, as well as its maneuverability in tight spaces. Consideration should be given to handling large aisles in a logistics area or an outdoor area with various obstacles.
Energy consumption: Some models are battery-powered, while others are mains-powered. For smaller areas, you can also opt for mechanical hand sweepers, which are more than sufficient for both indoor and outdoor use.
Maintenance and servicing: Consider maintenance and servicing costs, as well as spare parts availability. Choosing major brands like Taski , Nilfisk , or Numatic ensures long-term after-sales service and guaranteed on-site maintenance (see maintenance contracts).
Budget: Sweepers can vary greatly in cost, so it's important to determine an accurate budget before making a purchase.
When it comes to choosing a professional battery-powered sweeper, you'll be faced with several options, each with specific features. Here's an overview of the main types of sweepers available on the market:
Types of professional sweepers
Manual sweepers
Manual sweepers are designed for cleaning small areas. They are generally lightweight , compact and easy to maneuver . Their main advantage lies in their maneuverability, making them ideal for cleaning tight spaces or hard-to-reach areas. The investment is very modest with models costing less than 300 euros, particularly from Nilfisk with the SW250 and SW200.
Self-propelled sweepers
Battery-powered self-propelled sweepers are equipped with an electric motor that controls their movement, thus relieving the operator. These sweepers are ideal for cleaning medium to large areas, offering higher performance than manual sweepers. Their maneuverability and ease of use make them ideal for cleaning companies or establishments with large spaces to maintain.
Ride-on sweepers
Battery-powered ride-on sweepers are larger machines designed for cleaning large areas such as logistics platforms and large outdoor spaces such as parking lots. The operator operates the machine from a seat, allowing them to cover large areas quickly and with minimal effort. Thanks to their high performance, these models are particularly suitable for warehouses, parking lots, shopping centers, and communities.
Interview
Professional sweeper maintenance focuses on different elements, each essential to the proper functioning of the equipment.
One of the aspects that often causes operational problems is the filters . These must be cleaned as soon as they have excess dust. With a professional paper sweeper filter, this will involve washing it with low-pressure compressed air, or with a vacuum cleaner. If the material is polyester, it will be enough to clean it with clear water. If the filter shows signs of wear , it is better to replace it immediately .
Sweepers have rubber flaps, called "flaps." They help reduce dust projection and can be damaged if they are not adjusted to the correct height. It is therefore important to learn the different settings to avoid their wear and optimize their operation. At the end of each pass, it is recommended to empty the equipment's inspection bin. By doing this, the maintenance of the professional sweeper is already carried out for the next use. Finally, a final element allowing the proper use and operation of the tool is the inspection of the brushes. These, placed on the front and sides of the sweeper, ensure efficient sweeping when they are not showing any wear.
Use
Most commercial sweeper models are easy to use. However, it is strongly recommended that you read the documentation provided with the equipment to fully exploit its potential and reduce the risk of malfunctions.
Before using a professional sweeper, it is recommended to equip yourself with personal protective equipment . Gloves, safety glasses or earplugs can thus prevent any danger in dusty or noisy spaces.
First, you'll need to adjust the height and angle of the bumps, taking into account the surface to be cleaned and the debris to be collected. It's recommended to sweep the room by moving the tool in a straight line, from top to bottom or from left to right. If the space is very dirty, move the sweeper slowly so as not to miss any debris. After using the professional sweeper, be sure to carry out the various inspection and maintenance steps. This will ensure increased durability of the equipment.
Leading Manufacturers of Professional Battery Sweepers
There are several well-known brands in the professional battery-powered sweeper market. Here's an overview of the main manufacturers you should know:
Nilfisk: Nilfisk is a key player in the professional cleaning industry. The brand offers a complete range of battery-powered sweepers, from compact models to high-end ride-on versions. Renowned for their reliability and performance, Nilfisk sweepers are suitable for a wide variety of environments.
Numatic: A specialist in cleaning equipment, Numatic is also renowned for its professional battery-powered sweepers . Their models are characterized by their maneuverability, suction power, and ease of maintenance, making them the ideal tools for small and medium-sized areas.
Taski: A subsidiary of the Diversey group, Taski is a renowned manufacturer of battery-powered industrial sweepers . Their models are distinguished by their ergonomics, robustness and high performance, making them particularly suitable for large spaces such as warehouses or shopping centers.
The advantages of a professional sweeper
There are several clear advantages to using a professional sweeper. The benefits users gain include:
• A significant time saving. Cleaning is fast, thanks to the sweeping width allowed by the different models of professional sweepers. In addition, this efficiency is further enhanced by the capacity of collection bins and tanks, leading to fewer interruptions than with less efficient cleaning equipment.
• Versatility. Most professional sweepers can handle a wide variety of debris, from large to small. This isn't the only advantage of this equipment, which also improves air quality by filtering fine particles and reduces the volume of airborne dust.
• Durability and economy. One of the advantages of professional sweepers is their durability. These machines have a long lifespan, mainly due to the durable materials used in their design. Furthermore, their efficiency reduces the labor involved in cleaning surfaces. These surfaces also benefit from less wear and tear with each pass.
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