As we already know, floor scrubbing machines are an important tool if we want professional and quality cleaning. But for a floor scrubbing machine to work properly, we need to perform the necessary maintenance to achieve consistent and optimal results.
Maintenance and cleaning of a floor scrubbing machine
To understand how to properly clean your floor scrubbing machine, you need to be familiar with its components and how it works. This is necessary because here we can divide the steps for cleaning and maintenance of the floor scrubbing machine according to its components:
- Tanks: both solution and recovery;
- Filters: solution filter, suction filter, basket filter for solid waste that is located in the recovery tank;
- Squeegee: structure and blade;
- Base: brushes (disc or cylindrical) or pads;
- Hoses: exhaust and suction;
- Batteries (for battery powered floor scrubbing machines).
If your floor scrubbing machine is powered by batteries, be sure to turn them off before performing any work on the machine.
Cleaning the tanks of a floor scrubbing machine
Floor scrubbing machines have two separate tanks. The solution tank where you put water and detergent, and the recovery tank.
- Solution tank: In case the floor scrubbing machine is not used for prolonged periods, always remember to empty the solution tank at the end of your work. In fact, the detergent could become ineffective or even worse, settle and block the flow of the solution to the brushes.
- Recovery tank: Also in this case remember to empty it as the dirt could become muddy and settle at the botton of the tank itself. This means that if you don't use the floor scrubbing machine, the dirt could solidify and become difficult to remove. Therefore, after removing the dirty water, rinse the tank with clean water. These steps must be taken at the end of each work shift, otherwise bad odors may form in the tank and bacteria can proliferate.
Bonus tip: after cleaning the tanks, leave them open. In this way, the air will circulate easily and the tanks will dry better without the formation of strange odors.
Cleaning the filters of a floor scrubbing machine
Floor scrubbing machines are equipped with filters that help for optimal results. Therefore, the filters must be checked and cleaned if we want to maintain high performance of the floor scrubbing machine.
Always remember to clean:
- The waste basket filter located in the recovery tank. It's called a filter, but it's actually a container that collects small solid waste such as cigarette butts, wood chips, or food particles.
- The suction filter. If the suction filter is dirty, there is no way to complete the work process with a perfectly dry floor. Therefore, remove the suction filter and clean it under running water.
- The solution filter: This filter prevents debris from entering the solution. Here you must remove the filter in the same way and clean it under running water.
Cleaning the squeegee of a floor scrubbing machine
The squeegee is used to alow the floor scrubbing machine to collect the solution from the floor and leave it dry. Therefore, clean the squeegee blades after each use! Also, clean the squeegee frame to prevent corrosion of some of its parts. During the cleaning phase, check the condition of the squeegee and remember that those of the Comac can be used on all 4 sides. When one side wears out, turn the squeegee to the other side.
Cleaning the floor scrubbing machine base
Remember to regularly clean the pads or brushes of your floor scrubbing machine. These are the main tools we use to clean the floor. During cleaning, you can check the wear of the brushes or pads. Replace them if necessary.
Cleaning the hoses of a floor scrubbing machines
Suction and exhaust hoses must be cleaned regularly. There should be no debris or cracks in the hoses. You can rinse them with clean water to remove dirt. If you notice visible cracks or leaks in the hoses, replace them with new ones.
Battery maintenance of a floor scrubbing machine
Most floor scrubbing machines are powered by batteries that require proper maintenance. As we know, there are different types of batteries such as gel, lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries. Each one requires different maintenance. But regardless of the type of battery, always check the following before using the sweeper:
- The charge level of batteries.
- The battery poles conditions: in the presence of oxide, request the intervention of a technician.
- Whether the batteries are properly connected.
- The level of distilled water in case the floor scrubbing machine is equipped with lead-acid batteries.
Extra tips on how to clean your floor scrubbing machine
As we have already gone through all the cleaning and maintenance steps, we again remind you to clean your floor scrubbing machine at the end of each shift.
Be sure to check the condition of the floor scrubbing machine before each use, especially if the machine is used by different people.
When not using the floor scrubbing machine, be sure to do the following:
- Leave the tanks open so that air can circulate;
- Lift the rubber squeegee, brushes or pads off the ground to avoid damaging them.
If possible, avoid long periods of inactivity of the floor scrubbing machine and remember to store the batteries properly (charged, away from hot objects, in a safe environment).
Periodically check the consumables of the floor scrubbing machine. Plan the maintenance and let it be performed only by authorized professionals.
Take care of your floor scrubbing machine to make it last!
For more advice and information, do not hesitate to contact us.