How do I identify the proper size of equipment/scrub deck to purchase?


To properly identify the right piece of equipment there are a couple simple questions that should be asked.

1. How many square feet do you need to clean and how much time is allotted to perform that particular task? (This will be the biggest factor when choosing the right size autoscrubber).

2. Where will the unit be stored? With the storage constraints that most facilities face today, that will also have an impact on the size as well. Meaning that even though they need a larger autoscrubber to capture more labor savings, they might only have enough room to store a smaller unit.

3. And remember, always walk the facility in question so that you understand the challenges and constraints your customer faces on a daily basis.  

— Bob Christensen, director of education & training, Windsor Industries, Englewood, Colo.


The first place to start is by understanding the square footage of cleanable area in the facility. Also one needs to take into consideration the actual space to be cleaned. Are there a lot of obstacles to negotiate? Are there tight areas where it may be difficult to reach with a large machine? Perhaps two machines would be required: a larger machine for open spaces that can be cleaned quickly and efficiently to reduce labor costs, and a smaller machine for tight areas.

— Brian Simmons, product manager, Nilfisk-Advance Inc., Plymouth, Minn.


Choosing the right size equipment is critical to being satisfied with your purchase decision. While there are countless variables that determine the right answer, there are a few critical factors to consider:

Space: The first factor to help determine the appropriate machine is an understanding of the physical realities of the space you are cleaning. This includes evaluating the total square footage that needs to be cleaned, as well as being aware of unique attributes of the area such as layout. Is the space open, unrestricted and collocated, or is it closed, restricted and disbursed?

Schedule: Next, you need to consider the operational realities of cleaning your space. These include factors such as the frequency of cleaning, the amount of time available to clean, timing of shift changes, and etc. Each of these, in addition to the design of your space, can impact your ideal solution. Understanding the necessary coverage required and your desired cleaning schedule will help you fine tune your machine size requirements.       

Storage: The last consideration is logistical realities. Even if you have done your due diligence for space and scheduling requirements, missing the storage component can derail your earlier wisdom. Be sure you determine a location to house your equipment that offers convenience for draining, filling and storage when not in use.

There are many factors in choosing the proper size equipment, but understanding your space, schedule and storage will point you in the right direction.

 — Kyle Strait, category marketing manager, Tennant Commercial Products, Minneapolis


Machines with built-in battery chargers are an extremely helpful feature in many ways to the end user. Is this going to become a normal trend to make more equipment with chargers built in?


Yes. Most floor scrubbers today can be purchased with onboard battery changers and the trend is growing. However, today’s onboard chargers have more limited current output so very large batteries still have to be charged with a conventional shelf charger.  

— Brian Simmons, product manager, Nilfisk-Advance Inc., Plymouth, Minn.


There are many facilities around the globe that were built without the cleaning process considered in the design or even before mechanized cleaning was developed. As a result, these buildings don’t provide traditional janitorial closets or storage areas. This creates the need to “store” machines in common areas and the desire for the convenience of onboard chargers that many customers cannot live without.

— Kyle Strait, category marketing manager, Tennant Commercial Products, Minneapolis




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Autoscrubbers Are Shrinking In Size, But Big Benefits Remain
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Maintenance Tips For Autoscrubbers


POSTED ON: 11/18/2011