How to Properly Maintain and Prolong the Lifespan of Your Floor Machines
Floor machines are excellent investments, but to get the most out of your machine, it’s important to keep up with its routine maintenance. Maintenance will help you get the best return on investment, prevent the need for replacement, and reduce downtime from repairs. With that in mind, here are some helpful tips to prolong the lifespan of your floor machine.
Before You Use Your Floor Scrubber
Before using your floor machine, there are a few things you should do to ensure it operates smoothly and efficiently:
Read the owner’s manual
Each type of floor machine has specific maintenance and operation instructions, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Reading through your owner’s manual will help you understand the recommendations for your particular machine.
Check the batteries
Always make sure your floor machine is fully charged before use. Keep an eye out for signs of battery leakage, corrosion, or loose connections.
Check the drain or hose for clogs or leaks
Make sure the main vacuum or drain hose is free from cracks or debris that could cause it to clog. Remove any debris that’s present, and if needed, back flush the vacuum hose and flush it with clean water. If there are cracks or leaks, contact us to schedule a repair.
Check the debris tray
If your floor machine has a debris tray, clean it out before use to prevent clogs and overflowing.
Check the pads, brushes, and squeegee
If the brushes, pads, and squeegee are dirty, they won’t be very effective. Clean them after each time you use your machine and replace them when they become too worn or dirty.
Pre-clean the floor
Before using your floor machine, quickly sweep or dry mop the floor to get rid of any large debris.
After Using Your Floor MachineDrain and clean the tanks
Empty both the solution and recovery tanks after every use and flush them out with clean water. This will prevent bacteria growth and the accumulation of sludge.
Clean the squeegee assembly
Remove the squeegee and wipe down the assembly. This will help prevent rust and corrosion.
Wipe down your floor machine
Over time, your floor machine may develop a few scuffs, but it’s always a good idea to wipe it down after each use to remove any dirt or grime.
Recharge the battery
Depending on your machine, you may or may not need to recharge your battery after each use; check your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.
Store your unit
Always store your floor machine with the lids open to help reduce mold and mildew growth and odors.
Monthly TasksIn addition to the above tips, here are two tasks you should consider doing monthly to keep your floor machine well-maintained:
Clean and deodorize the tanks and supply lines
Even if you clean your tanks after each use, they can still begin to accumulate unpleasant odors after a few weeks. To prevent this, deodorize the tanks and supply lines monthly using the instructions listed in your owner’s manual.
Lubricate the wheels and hinges
Use an appropriate lubricant (check your owner’s manual) to lubricate the wheel housings and any pivot points or chains.
Lastly, go easy on your machine! Like a vehicle, the harder you are on it, the more likely it will need repairs. Treat your machine well, and it will last much longer.
Visit Bay Area Floor Machine for All Your Floor Cleaning Needs
At Bay Area Floor Machine, we offer everything you need to keep your floors looking their best, including new equipment, cleaning accessories and solutions, and commercial disinfection. We also offer on-site repairs and quarterly or monthly planned maintenance! Our technicians are factory trained to help reduce your downtime—and we floor-test your equipment to ensure it’s operating at factory conditions. Stop by today or give us a call at (408) 971-1230.