How do you determine the right size scrubber?
You determine the right size scrubber by the floor space measure, analyze the room layout and take into account passage widths and type of contamination. For areas up to 500 square meters, a compact walk-behind machine is usually sufficient, while larger areas from 1,000 square meters and up are better suited to ride-on models. Frequency of cleaning and available storage space also play an important role in scrubber selection.
Why is the right size scrubber so important?
The size scrubber directly determines your cleaning efficiency and operational results. Too small a machine means more time spent scrubbing, while too large a machine is awkward in tight spaces and less practical to use.
A well-chosen scrubber provides optimal working width at your specific space layout. This results in faster cleaning with fewer labor hours. Plus, you avoid the machine ending up sitting unused in the corner because it is not practical for daily use.
The right machine size also affects your maintenance needs and energy consumption. Smaller machines use less power and are easier to maintain, but with large areas, this advantage is outweighed by the longer operating time.
What factors determine the size of your scrubber?
The floor space is the most important factor, but certainly not the only one. You should also look at space layout, passage widths, obstacles and the type of contamination you regularly encounter.
The available passage widths determine what working width is possible. An 80 cm wide machine will not fit through a 75 cm doorway. Therefore, measure all relevant passageways before making your choice.
Type of soiling also plays a role. Light daily soiling requires less powerful machines than stubborn industrial soiling. Cleaning frequency determines whether you choose a faster, larger machine or whether a more compact design will suffice.
Storage space and transportation options are practical factors that are often overlooked. A large ride-on machine needs more storage space than a compact walk-behind variety.
How do you calculate the required floor area for your scrubber?
Measure the total area to be cleaned and subtract obstacles such as pillars, machinery and fixed fixtures from. The effective cleaning area is usually 10-20% smaller than the gross floor area.
For rectangular spaces, the calculation is simple: length × width. For complex spaces, divide the area into smaller rectangles and add them together. Don't forget hallways, offices and other adjacent spaces that also need cleaning.
Consider the shape of your spaces. Long, narrow hallways require different machinery than large open halls. A 1,000-square-meter space in a long, narrow shape requires a different approach than the same area in a square hall.
Also note the locations of electrical outlets if you choose a corded machine, or plan charging points for battery models. This affects the practicality of different machine sizes.
What is the difference between compact and large scrubbers?
Compact scrubbers have working widths of 35-50 cm and are ideal for smaller areas up to 500 m². They are maneuverable, easy to store and practical to use and maintain.
| Feature | Compact machines | Large machines |
|---|---|---|
| Working width | 35-50 cm | 65-100+ cm |
| Suitable surface | Up to 500 m² | From 1000 m² |
| Agility | Excellent | Limited |
| Investment | Bearing | Higher |
| Storage | Minimum | Significantly |
Large scrubbers for industrial applications offer working widths starting at 65 cm and are designed for industrial cleaning sector applications. They have larger water tanks, longer operating time and higher cleaning capacity per hour.
The disadvantage of large machines is their limited maneuverability and higher investment. They are less suitable for areas with many obstacles or tight passages.
How do you choose between a walk-behind and ride-on scrubber?
Walk-behind machines are suitable for areas up to 1,000 square meters and daily use of up to 2 hours. Ride-on scrubbers Be interesting from 1000 m² and with daily use of more than 2 hours.
Walk-behind models require a lower investment and less storage space and are easier to maintain. The operator walks behind the machine, which is more physically demanding when working large areas.
Ride-on machines require a higher investment but offer more comfort with extended use. The operator sits on the machine, which is less tiring. These machines usually have larger water tanks and longer operating times.
Also consider available manpower. Walk-behind machines are suitable for part-time cleaning work, while ride-on models are cost-effective with full-time cleaning staff or large areas cleaned regularly.
Which scrubber size fits your business best?
The best choice depends on your specific situation: surface area, frequency of use and available space. A choosing the right scrubber requires consideration of all these factors together.
For office buildings up to 500 m², a compact walk-behind machine is usually sufficient. Stores and showrooms between 500-1000 m² benefit from a slightly larger walk-behind with 50-65 cm working width.
Industrial environments, warehouses and large office buildings from 1,000 m² and up justify the choice of a ride-on machine. Here the time savings outweigh the higher investment.
Also consider financing options and service contracts, especially for more expensive machines. This spreads the investment and ensures predictable maintenance costs. Always request an on-site demonstration to experience how the machine performs in your specific environment.
At Metech, we're happy to help you make the right choice. We offer on-site demonstrations and advise on the most suitable scrubber sizes for your situation, including financing options and service contracts to suit your needs. Please contact us for personalized advice.