Large industrial floor surfaces are incredibly difficult to clean through a manual process considering the number of people working, the debris, and dirt. Therefore, a lot of companies are investing in floor-cleaning machines. Industrial floor scrubbers are essential equipment for maintaining cleanliness and safety in various industrial settings.
These machines have revolutionized floor cleaning by automating and enhancing the process, saving time, labour, and ensuring superior results. If you think it’s high time you invested in one, you are right. We will explore the different types of industrial floor scrubbers, their benefits, and the considerations involved in deciding whether to purchase or hire one.
How Do Industrial Floor Scrubbers Work?
With most modern options that have a roller or disc brush head, the principle of work is similar. The cleaning solution is added to the fresh water tank, or if there is an automatic dosing system, in front of the brush head. The contact pressure together with the rotations of the brush removes the dirt. The dirty water is then absorbed by the squeegee using the turbine’s suction power, and collected in the dirty water tank. That said, not every model is suitable for all areas of application.
Types of Industrial Floor Scrubbers
These machines are available in different sizes and models, with a variety of configurations that fit a wide range of applications. You will also find that some of them come with additional accessories that can do more than just clean. From a refined and resilient industrial floor scrubber, to mid-size or ride-on scrubbers, you are bound to find the right tool for the job.
Walk-Behind Floor Scrubbers
Walk-behind varieties are compact and manoeuvrable machines designed for smaller areas. They are perfect for congested or tight spaces, such as retail stores, hospitals, and offices. Operators walk behind these scrubbers, controlling their movements and cleaning actions.
Ride-On Floor Scrubbers
Ride-on versions are larger and more powerful, making them suitable for vast industrial areas like warehouses, factories, and airports. These machines offer greater cleaning capacity and efficiency, and operators ride on them for enhanced comfort and productivity.
Compact Floor Scrubbers
Compact options are versatile machines that can navigate through tight spaces and are excellent for cleaning in areas where manoeuvrability is essential. They are typically used in commercial kitchens, schools, and retail facilities.
Stand-On Floor Scrubbers
Stand-on models combine the benefits of both walk-behind and ride-on machines. They are compact, highly manoeuvrable, and allow operators to stand on a platform for improved visibility and control. These scrubbers are ideal for medium-sized industrial spaces.
Benefits of Industrial Floor Scrubbers
- Enhanced Cleaning Efficiency: Industrial floor scrubbers utilize powerful brushes and high-pressure water jets to remove dirt, grime, and even stubborn stains from floors. They provide a consistent and thorough cleaning, ensuring that surfaces are safe and hygienic.
- Labour Savings: With automated scrubbing and drying functions, these products significantly reduce the need for manual labour. This results in cost savings and allows workers to focus on more specialized tasks.
- Improved Safety: Clean and dry floors contribute to a safer work environment by reducing the risk of slip and fall accidents. They’re equipped with squeegees that efficiently dry the surface, preventing any potential hazards.
- Time Efficiency: Floor scrubbers are capable of covering large areas quickly, leading to time savings in the cleaning process. This is especially valuable in industries where downtime needs to be minimized.
- Consistency: Industrial floor scrubbers will provide a consistent level of cleanliness, ensuring that the same high standards are met every time they are used. This is crucial in environments with strict hygiene and safety regulations.
- Versatility: Various types and sizes of scrubbers cater to different industrial needs. Whether you require a compact scrubber for a small space or a ride-on machine for vast warehouses, there is a suitable option available.
- Environmental Benefits: Many modern scrubbers are designed with eco-friendly features, such as reduced water and detergent consumption. This not only saves on operating costs but also minimizes the environmental impact of cleaning processes.
Purchase or Hire: Considerations
Purchasing a floor scrubber requires a significant upfront investment, while hiring involves periodic rental expenses. Consider your budget and long-term cost projections when deciding. Although the initial investment might seem high, when you take into account the advantages and labour savings, you will find it is worth it.
- Frequency of Use: Evaluate how frequently you will use the product. If it’s for occasional deep cleaning, hiring may be a cost-effective solution. For daily or frequent use, owning the equipment could be more economical.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Ownership entails responsibility for maintenance and repairs, which can add to the total cost. When hiring, the rental company typically handles these issues, ensuring the machine’s reliability.
- Storage Space: Floor scrubbers, especially ride-on models, require storage space. If you have limited space, hiring might be more practical, as it eliminates the need for long-term storage.
- Scalability: Consider whether your cleaning needs will change over time. If your business is growing or your cleaning requirements are variable, hiring allows you to adapt to these changes more easily.
- Long-Term ROI: Evaluate the potential return on investment (ROI) over the life of the equipment. Consider factors like labour savings, improved cleaning quality, and reduced downtime to determine the value of owning a floor scrubber.
To Sum Up
Industrial floor scrubbers are indispensable tools for maintaining cleanliness and safety in various industrial environments. The choice between purchasing and hiring one depends on factors like budget, frequency of use, maintenance considerations, and storage space availability.
Regardless of the decision, the benefits of these machines, including enhanced cleaning efficiency, labour savings, and improved safety, make them a wise investment for any industrial facility. By understanding the types and advantages of these machines and making an informed decision about ownership or rental, businesses can achieve cleaner, safer, and more efficient operations.
