Suction rubbers are essential parts of any scrubber which ensure that the dirty water is sucked up after scrubbing. These rubbers work like a kind of wiper that pulls the water from the floor and directs it to the dirty water tank. Without properly functioning suction cups, dirty water will remain on your floor, causing your cleaning results to be far below par.
Recognizing wear on squeegee rubbers is crucial to maintain optimal cleaning results. Worn rubbers can lead to water streaks, incomplete cleaning and ultimately damage to your floor. In this article we explain how to recognize wear and tear and when it is time for replacement.
What are squeegees and why are they important for your scrubber?
Squeegees are flexible rubber strips attached to the back of a scrubber to suck up dirty water and cleaning fluid from the floor. They work together with the vacuum system to ensure that the floor is left dry and clean after the scrubbing process.
The suction rubbers function by creating a vacuum between the rubber and the floor. When the machine moves across the floor, the rubbers bend slightly and form a seal that directs the water to the suction opening. This process requires that the rubbers are in perfect condition to ensure an effective seal.
The importance of properly functioning squeegees cannot be underestimated. They immediately determine the quality of your cleaning result and prevent dirty water from remaining behind that can lead to stains, bacterial growth or even damage to floor materials. In addition, they ensure that the floor dries quickly, which is important for the safety of employees and visitors.
What signs indicate worn squeegee rubbers?
You can recognize worn squeegee rubbers by water streaks on the floor after scrubbing, incomplete water absorption, visible cracks or hard spots in the rubber and an increased noise level during vacuuming. These symptoms indicate that the rubbers have lost their sealing function.
The most obvious sign of wear and tear is when water remains where the machine has just been. This happens because the rubber no longer fits properly to the floor, which reduces the suction power. You will notice that certain areas of the floor remain wet, especially at the edges of the scrubbing pad.
A visual inspection of the squeegees often reveals obvious wear. Pay attention to the following signals:
- Cracks or nicks in the rubber
- Hard or paved areas that are no longer flexible
- Uneven wear on the underside of the rubber
- Deformations that cause the rubber to no longer lie straight
Another important signal is an increased noise level. When squeegees are worn, they can vibrate or rattle against the floor, resulting in more noise than normal. This sound is caused by the rubber no longer making even contact with the floor.
How often should you replace the suction rubbers of a scrubber?
Scrubbers on a scrubber should be replaced on average every 3 to 6 months, depending on the frequency of use, the type of floor and the cleaning conditions. Intensive daily use can wear them out faster, while occasional use can extend their lifespan.
The replacement frequency is influenced by several factors. Rougher floor surfaces, such as concrete or textured tiles, cause faster wear than smooth surfaces. The amount of dirt and the presence of abrasive particles, such as sand, can also shorten the lifespan of squeegees.
The type of cleaning agent also plays a role. Aggressive chemicals can damage the rubber more quickly, while milder agents extend its lifespan. The temperature of the water and the ambient temperature also influence the flexibility and durability of the rubber.
A practical approach is to inspect the squeegees monthly and replace them at the first sign of wear. It's better to replace them a little early than to wait too long, as worn rubbers will negatively affect the overall performance of your scrubber.
What happens if you wait too long before replacing squeegees?
Waiting too long before replacing squeegees leads to poor cleaning results, more water residue on the floor, possible damage to floor materials due to residual dirty water and extra wear and tear on other parts of the scrubber due to overloading the suction system.
When suction rubbers no longer perform their function properly, the suction system has to work harder to achieve the same result. This leads to additional wear and tear on the suction motor, which can ultimately result in expensive repairs. The motor is overloaded because the poor sealing creates a less efficient air flow.
The dirty water left on the floor can cause several problems. First, stains can form that are difficult to remove, especially on porous flooring materials. Secondly, moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and mold, which can cause hygiene problems in commercial environments.
In addition, the remaining water can lead to safety risks due to slippery surfaces. In industrial environments where safety is paramount, this can lead to accidents and liability issues. Having to regularly scrub the same surfaces again also increases operational costs due to higher consumption of water, electricity and cleaning products.
How Metech helps with scrubber maintenance
Bee Metech we understand how crucial good maintenance is for the performance of your scrubber. We offer extensive maintenance contracts that ensure that parts such as suction rubbers are replaced in a timely manner before they cause problems.
Our maintenance service offers several benefits:
- Regular inspection and replacement of suction rubbers
- Discount on replacement parts for contract customers
- No call-out fees for planned maintenance
- Extended warranty from one to two years on new machines
With more than 700 machines in stock, including refurbished options, we can always deliver the right parts quickly. Our technical specialists are ready to advise you on the optimal maintenance schedule for your specific situation. Contact us for a no-obligation maintenance consultation and ensure that your scrubber always performs optimally.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check whether my squeegee rubbers need to be replaced?
Perform a simple monthly check by visually inspecting the rubbers for cracks, hard spots or deformations. Also test performance by checking for water streaks or wet spots after scrubbing. If you're unsure, run your finger across the underside of the rubber - it should feel smooth and flexible.
Can I turn squeegees over to extend their life?
Yes, with many squeegees you can swap the front and back when one side is worn out. This can extend the lifespan by up to 50%. Make sure that both sides are suitable for contact with the floor and that the rubber is still sufficiently flexible. Always check your machine manual for specific instructions.
What factors in my cleaning routine accelerate squeegee wear?
Abrasive surfaces such as rough concrete, excessive use of aggressive chemicals, excessively high water temperatures (above 60°C) and scrubbing over rubble or sand significantly accelerate wear. An incorrect suction pressure setting or damaged floors with sharp edges can also cause the rubbers to wear out faster.
What should I do if new squeegees immediately leave water marks?
New rubbers sometimes need a breaking-in period. First check that they are installed correctly and the correct suction pressure is set. Clean the rubbers with warm water to remove any production residues. If the problem persists, the rubbers may be defective or not suitable for your floor type - contact your supplier.
How do I best store spare squeegee rubbers to prevent loss of quality?
Store squeegees in a dry, cool place (15-25°C) away from direct sunlight. Lay them flat or hang them to avoid deformation. Avoid contact with oils, solvents or sharp objects. When stored properly, rubbers will last up to 2-3 years, but always check flexibility before installing.
Are more expensive squeegees always better than cheap alternatives?
Not always, but quality rubbers from the original brand are usually better suited to your machine and floor type. They often offer better chemical resistance and longer life. Cheap alternatives may last shorter or perform worse. Consider the total cost per month of use rather than just the purchase price.
Can I repair squeegee rubbers instead of replacing them with small cracks?
You can temporarily repair small superficial cracks with special rubber glue, but this is only an emergency solution. Repaired rubbers never perform as well as new ones and can fail unexpectedly. For optimal cleaning results and to prevent damage to your machine, replacement is always the best option if there is visible wear.