Professional floor scrubber: how to compare?
Buying a floor scrubber is a significant investment with three main objectives:
-> Make the cleaning staff's job easier by incorporating more ergonomics
-> Increase cleaning productivity
-> Improve cleaning efficiency , particularly through stronger mechanical action
A floor scrubber is a machine used to clean floors and surfaces using water and special floor scrubber cleaning products , or steam, as in the case of Duplex Steam scrubbers. Floor scrubbers are used to clean tiled floors, floors in public spaces, warehouse floors, and surfaces in commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings. You will often find floor scrubbers in large areas such as train stations, airports, and shopping centers . The most common users are cleaning and maintenance companies because it allows them to save a significant amount of time compared to manual cleaning. Floor scrubbers can also be used to clean large outdoor areas such as parking lots, shopping centers, sidewalks, and sports fields.
Determining the size of the floor scrubber: the output
A floor scrubber is characterized by its "capacity," in terms of efficiency, to clean square meters within a given time. It seems obvious that the wider the machine, the more productive it will be, as the operator will make fewer passes . A good analogy is mowing the lawn. The wider your mower, the faster you'll go, but the less maneuverable you'll be.
Be wary of advertised yield values, which are generally theoretical yields. This theoretical yield is a simple mathematical formula that multiplies the machine's working width by the walking speed of a person.
Some scrubber-dryer manufacturers provide a practical performance rating that tends to be close to the actual performance you will observe when using your scrubber-dryer. In most cases, using a practical performance rating 50% lower than the theoretical rating can prove to be a conservative rule that will avoid any problems (undersized machines).
Example: If you want to treat 4000 m2 in 2 hours, you will need to choose a scrubber dryer with a practical output of more than 2000 m2/hour corresponding to a theoretical output of 4000 m2/hour.
For very large areas, a ride-on floor scrubber may be the best option, as only this type of model has the capacity not only to clean large areas but also to minimize operator fatigue, who, let's not forget , is walking behind the machine in most cases! Therefore, beyond practical efficiency, the fatigue of the cleaning staff must also be taken into account.
Points to check before defining the size and model
The floor scrubber must be suited to the type of flooring being cleaned. Of course, the type ofbrush or abrasive pad will be chosen according to the desired action, such as spray cleaning, stripping, crystallization, etc. The 3M Scotch-Brite pad range remains one of the most effective on the market for professional cleaning. Choosing the right product will also be crucial; opt for a non-foaming floor scrubber cleaner with a degreasing or neutral action.
The size of the floor scrubber must correspond to the size of the room, warehouse, or gymnasium to be cleaned. The theoretical and practical performance figures we detailed above are important to verify to ensure you meet your cleaning timeframe. This is even more crucial if you are a cleaning company and have "sold" the service. For large areas, you will need a ride-on floor scrubber . The number of square meters to be cleaned will also determine whether you should choose a machine with a drive motor on the wheels or one that is pushed by the operator .
Towed or non-towed floor scrubber?
A floor scrubber can have drive at the wheels , in which case it is called a self-propelled scrubber. If the scrubber does not have this drive (as is the case with smaller models), it is the rotation of the brushes combined with the push from the user that allows the machine to move forward .
Towed scrubber dryers should be reserved for the use of large models and also for room configurations with, for example, ramps (wheelchair access) where traction will be necessary.
A self-propelled model has an additional motor to drive the machine's wheels. As a result, the battery life of a battery-powered machine will be reduced , since it will need to power not one, but two motors!
What is a self-propelled floor scrubber?
A self-propelled floor scrubber is generally battery-powered , but a few models also come in a corded version . With the widespread adoption of lithium batteries , the increased power and extended runtime are partially spelling the end for corded models of self-propelled scrubbers. This type of scrubber is equipped with a motor specifically dedicated to driving the wheels . Conversely, a non-traction scrubber only moves forward thanks to the user's pushing action, even if the rotation of the brushes can contribute to its advancement. Consequently, in the case of ramps with inclines (such as wheelchair access) or large areas, a self-propelled scrubber is essential; otherwise, the user will be discouraged, as a non-traction machine will require too much effort.
The advantages of a self-propelled floor scrubber
Self-propelled scrubber dryers therefore offer many advantages compared to other types of scrubber dryers with brush drive.
Ability to clean ramps and slopes: As explained previously, as soon as your setup includes ramps (such as those for people with reduced mobility), slopes , etc., a machine without wheel traction will be unusable. Trying to "push" a 150 kg scrubber, even with brush drive, in this situation is virtually impossible . This is the main, essential criterion for purchasing a self-propelled scrubber.
Ease of use and ergonomics for the operator : A self-propelled floor scrubber is much easier to maneuver and control. It offers better stability and a smoother ride, reducing operator fatigue as the operator never needs to exert force to move the machine forward. Reversing, moving forward quickly or slowly (speed adjustable on some models)...becomes child's play. The operator is less physically strained, which significantly reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Increased productivity and efficiency : Battery-powered self-propelled scrubber dryers allow you to cover large areas in less time thanks to their higher working speed compared to brush-driven scrubber dryers. Since you no longer have to push and the scrubber "moves forward on its own" with a simple hand movement from the operator... the forward speed will be greater.
The floor scrubber doesn't do everything
Don't forget that the floor scrubber doesn't do everything, and as the Sinner Circle reminds us, you'll also need to choose the right washing brush or cleaning pad for the surface; and opt for a detergent specifically designed for floor scrubbers with characteristics such as not foaming...
What points should be checked when choosing a floor scrubber?
To choose the right floor scrubber, you need to consider several factors:
- The size of the surface to be cleaned, as well as the shape and dimensions of the surface
- The theoretical and practical output of the machine will determine the time. There is a big difference between a theoretical output that is advertised.
- The type of floor to be cleaned : carpet, parquet, tiles, thermoplastic flooring... in order to use the correct brush or pad
- The capacity of the scrubber-dryer's solution tank (water + cleaning product): the longer the operating time, the less often you'll need to stop to refill the cleaning product. Therefore, the number of liters in the clean water tank should be checked.
- Machine power : Corded floor scrubbers are more powerful because a cable power supply allows for the construction of machines with more powerful motors, whereas battery-powered floor scrubbers, with their battery-operated motors, must primarily ensure autonomy . Therefore, in the case of a battery-powered floor scrubber, it is difficult to use a very powerful motor, which would consume more power and thus reduce the operating time .
- The noise level of the device : In noise-sensitive environments such as hospitals, noise is a problem. Taski has worked extensively on this issue, focusing on the concept of whisper-quiet operation, both in its vacuum cleaners and in its new Ultimaxx scrubber-dryer models .
- The ergonomics of the floor scrubber and its ease of maintenance so that maintenance can be done naturally without significant constraints.
How do I maintain my floor scrubber and how often?
Maintaining your floor scrubber will determine its lifespan and, more importantly, its consistent efficiency. After each use, empty and rinse the dirty water tank to prevent debris buildup. Clean the brushes and squeegee blades to ensure effective scrubbing and, above all, suction to leave your floor dry. Don't hesitate to replace the squeegee blades regularly . Worn blades will result in poor suction and therefore water streaks. This can lead to a slippery floor and the risk of falls. Ideally, installing a "slippery floor" sign is an essential safety measure to prevent this. Also, inspect the hoses and filters to prevent blockages. For battery-powered models, regularly check the charge level and, above all, avoid deep discharge.
Several brands offer "Full Service" contracts with monthly or quarterly visits...Perhaps this is the solution to ensure you receive this maintenance follow-up?
Are the brushes compatible between floor scrubbers?
Each brand typically has its own system for attaching the disc holder and brush. Compatibility between different brands is virtually nonexistent, except for "sub-brands" that don't control manufacturing and source their machines from a single factory.
In this case, the series of machines are differentiated by color and model name, but they all "come off" the same production line.
It is therefore essential to ensure that the brush or disc holder has a compatible locking system . Ideally, use the manufacturer's original accessories, but several brush and disc manufacturers offer fully compatible accessories, often at prices 30 to 40% lower.
Taski has its own interlocking system, ensuring interchangeability with part of its scrubber-dryer range and Taski Ergodisc single-disc machines. This reduces the number of part numbers required.
Nilfisk also has its own standards for fixing the plate and brush, which also vary from one machine to another. Some machines have longitudinal brushes.
Numatic, which has complete control over the manufacturing of its range, also has its standard, like Duplex.
Duplex escalator and moving floor scrubbers
The Duplex escalator base 350 and 550 automatic scrubber allows you to sweep and clean stairs and rolling walkways.
The Duplex esclator professional 350 and 550 scrubber dryer allows you to sweep, clean, brush and vacuum stairs and moving walkways.
The Duplex escalator combi 350 and 550 scrubber dryer allows you to brush, clean and vacuum stairs and moving walkways.
For all machines, the patented self-guiding support, with grooved wheels, keeps the machine stationary and stable during the cleaning operation. The two brushes reach perfectly into the bottom of the grooves of stairs or conveyor belts.
For Duplex Professional and Combi models, dry brushing is initially performed on the stairs or moving walkway while it is in operation: the two brushes mechanically loosen dry deposits, even deep within the grooves, which are then vacuumed up . Next, the detergent solution is distributed by the action of the product and the rotating brushes, throwing all deposits and residue into the collection bin. The result is impeccable.
The best brands of professional washing machines
There are numerous machine brands, but the circle of "leaders" remains very small. Beyond simply offering a product range, the key criteria for users and decision-makers in public and industrial settings remain maintenance and parts availability, as well as innovation capabilities.
To date, the historical leaders remain:
-> Nilfisk having recently grouped its Nilfisk Advance and Nilfisk Alto brands under a single brand.
-> Taski, a Swiss manufacturer whose reputation is well established in terms of innovation and reliability, particularly among cleaning companies.
-> Numatic , which is historically recognized through its range of vacuum cleaners, now has a complete range of washing machines, from compact machines to ride-on models.