All you Need to Know about Scrubber Dryers
Scrubber dryers are most often recommended for indoor floor cleaning regimes.
They can be used for washing/ drying various types of indoor hard flooring. Regularly these machines are used for maintenance cleaning tasks; however, they may also be used to perform deep cleaning regimes or the cleaning non-abrasive, even outdoor surfaces.
What is a scrubber-dryer and how does it work?
A scrubber dryer comes in two models: walk- behind or ride-on. They may also be ordered as battery operated with or without a cable. A scrubber dryer cleans floors and surfaces via a mechanically operated, rotating floor pads or brushes. Floor pads come in varying abrasives to suit all cleaning tasks. Cleaning is completed using a mixture of water and detergent solution. When in forwarding operation the machine will release the solution into the rotating brushes/pads. The motion of the brushes/pads coupled with the detergent lifts and removes dirt from floors/ surfaces. On passing the squeegee at the rear of the machine collects the leftover detergent and debris. This is stored in the recovery tank which can be emptied at the end of the cleaning regime.
How many types of scrubbing machines are there on the market?
As briefly mentioned above scrubber dryers come in both a walk –behind and ride-on models with a cleaning track of 35- 130cm. While both models have pretty similar functions they differ hugely in terms of performance, capacity and cleaning capabilities.
However both walk –behind and ride-on scrubber dryers have similarities in their ease of use, reduced noise levels, and safety functions – this is particularly evident across such brands as Comac.
How many square meters can I clean? Can I clean all types of flooring?
Using the Comac brand as an example of scrubber dryer capabilities the automatically cleanable area ranges from 200sq.m to 20,000sq.m
Scrubber Dryers can be used to wash and dry all floor types with the exception of carpet, natural wood flooring or suspended floorings. When considering a scrubber dryer it is always important to note the type of floor on which the machine will be used, the brush or pad type required and water quantity to be used.
Is it really possible to wash and dry even a small surface with a scrubbing machine?
It is possible to wash and dry even the smallest of surfaces using a scrubber dryer. It is recommended that you use a purpose-built machine to complete such tasks. One such machine is the Comac Vispa range. The Vispa is purpose-built for the cleaning sector and the smallest scrubbing machine available today. Their compact design means they are perfect for cleaning in small and busy locations.
Are scrubber dryers suitable for cleaning environments of limited space?
There are many reasons to choose a scrubbing machine rather than the traditional mop and bucket system even in locations of limited size.:
- It is more hygienic when the right detergent is used the sanitation achieved is tenfold that of a manual cleaning system.
- It takes just half the time of a manual cleaning process with minimal effort required by the operator and an almost instantly dried floor. All round savings – time, money resources & safer.
- Environmentally friendly – dosing system releases the perfect amount and combination of water/detergent for the selected cleaning task.
Are the scrubbing machines difficult to use?
Although scrubber dryers offer the highest of cleaning standards it requires minimal training due to it's easy to use the operating system, a single button for machine operation, specific washing programs can be pre-set for the desired application and user-friendly manual.
Can I use any type of detergent?
Scrubbing machines can only be used with detergents specifically created for the machines. It is recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s dilution guidelines and never use such products as caustic soda, acids, diluents or solvents.
Do scrubbing machines have a very high water and detergent consumption?
By using a scrubber dryer you are automating the floor-cleaning process this involves a reduction in labor and cleaning times, improved hygiene standards of the surface and a reduction in washing operations. Cleaning with a scrubbing machine optimizes water consumption and consequently detergent usage.
Do scrubber dryers require a lot of maintenance?
Like all machines, scrubber dryers should be serviced once annually to ensure efficiency and performance levels. Filters should also be cleaned on a regular basis.
After each usage dirty water that has been collected should be emptied and the recovery tank rinsed. Squeegee rubbers may also need to be wiped down. Battery operated machines may need to be charged.
What should one do to preserve the condition of a sweeper over time?
In order to preserve your machine, ensure regular services and filter cleaning. Empty recovery tank and wipe squeegees after each use. Follow the manual supplied with the machine for maintenance and instructions for usage.
How do I choose the right model for me?
- Identify the size of the location where the machine will be used.
- Identify the floor types within this location
- Speak to a professional cleaning equipment supplier like Chemical Direct.
