When you are looking for a compact scrubber for your business, working width is one of the most important specifications to consider. The working width not only determines how quickly you can clean large surfaces, but also whether the machine is suitable for tight spaces and narrow passages. For logistics managers who want to efficiently keep warehouses and loading docks clean, it is crucial to know what the options are.
Compact scrubbers are specially designed to find the balance between maneuverability and cleaning capacity. They should fit through standard doorways, yet provide sufficient working width for productive scrubbing. In this article we answer the most frequently asked questions about working widths of compact scrubbers.
What is meant by the working width of a scrubber?
The working width of a scrubber is the width of the surface that the machine can scrub in one go while driving forward. This is determined by the diameter of the scrub brushes or the width of the scrub pads mounted on the bottom of the machine.
The working width differs from the total width of the machine itself. For example, while a compact scrubber may be 28 inches wide to fit through doorways, the working width may be significantly narrower. This is because space is needed for the chassis, wheels and other components around the scrub deck.
It is important to understand this distinction when choosing a scrubber. A wider working width means you can clean large surfaces faster, but may come at the expense of maneuverability in tight spaces.
What is the maximum working width of compact scrubbers?
The maximum working width of compact scrubbers is usually between 43 and 51 centimeters. This limitation is determined by the requirement that compact machines must be able to fit through standard door openings of 80 centimeters and must remain sufficiently manoeuvrable.
The most common working widths for compact scrubbers are:
- 43 cm for extra compact models that have to work under tables and in very tight spaces
- 46 cm for standard compact scrubbers that offer good balance
- 51 cm for compact machines that aim for maximum productivity
These working widths have been deliberately kept limited to maintain the compact properties. Machines with wider scrubbing decks usually fall into the category of medium or large scrubbers, which have different applications.
Which factors determine the working width you need?
The required working width is determined by the combination of the surface size, the room layout, the available time and the type of contamination. Large open spaces require wider working widths for efficiency, while tight spaces with obstacles require narrower working widths.
When determining the correct working width, you must take various aspects of your cleaning environment into account. First of all, the layout of the room plays a crucial role. Are there many machines, scaffolding or other obstacles that make maneuvering difficult? Then a narrower working width is more practical, even if cleaning takes a little longer.
The type of floor and the contamination are also decisive. Stubborn contamination often requires multiple passes, making the working width less critical. For light daily cleaning, a wider working width is actually more efficient because you get done faster.
Finally, you need to look at the time available for cleaning. If you have limited time, for example during breaks or after working hours, a wider working width compensates for the time pressure.
What is the difference between working width and suction width?
The working width is the width with which scrubbing takes place, while the suction width is the width with which the dirty water is sucked up. On most scrubbers, the suction width is slightly wider than the working width to ensure that all the dirty water is removed.
This difference is technically necessary because the scrubbing process deposits water and cleaning agent on the floor, which must then be absorbed by the squeegee. A suction width that is equal to or narrower than the working width would mean that dirty water remains on the floor, which negatively affects the cleaning result.
Typically the suction width is 5 to 10 centimeters wider than the working width. For example, on a scrubber with a working width of 46 centimeters, the suction width can be 51 centimeters. This overlap ensures that water that splashes slightly to the sides is also sucked up.
How does the working width affect the cleaning time?
A wider working width significantly reduces cleaning time because you need fewer passes to cover the same area. Doubling the working width can theoretically halve the cleaning time, provided the space is suitable for the wider machine.
However, the time savings are not always linear. In areas with many obstacles, you have to stop, turn and maneuver more often, which partially eliminates the advantage of a wider working width. On the other hand, the time savings in large open spaces, such as warehouses or factory halls, is significant.
The driving speed of the machine also plays a role. Compact scrubbers generally drive slower than large machines, making the time savings from a wider working width extra valuable. Every centimeter of extra working width means fewer passes and therefore less total driving time.
How Metech helps with scrubbers
Bee Metech we understand that choosing the right working width is crucial for efficient floor maintenance. With more than 700 machines in stock, we offer compact scrubbers in different working widths, from top brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk and our own Meijer brand.
Our expertise helps you make the right choice:
- Free on-site demonstrations to test the working width in your specific situation
- Personal advice based on your room layout and cleaning needs
- Delivery within 24 hours for immediate availability
- Full service and support for optimal performance
Take contact Contact us on 0342 414 361 for a no-obligation consultation about the ideal working width for your business situation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I also use a compact scrubber with maximum working width in narrow aisles?
Yes, but pay attention to the total machine width, not just the working width. For example, a machine with a working width of 51 cm can have a total width of 70 cm. Always measure your narrowest passage and compare this with the machine width. For aisles narrower than 90 cm, a machine with a working width of 43-46 cm is often more practical.
What happens if I choose a scrubber that is too wide for my space?
A machine that is too wide creates inefficiencies due to constant maneuvering around obstacles, increased risk of damage to furniture and walls, and inaccessible corners that require manual cleaning. The time advantage of the wider working width is then lost due to the extra actions.
How do I calculate which working width is the most efficient for my warehouse?
First measure your aisle widths and identify obstacles. Then calculate how many passes you need per working width: surface area divided by (working width × length of space). Compare the total driving time including extra maneuvering work. An on-site demo provides the best insight into practical efficiency.
Are there any disadvantages to a narrower working width than necessary?
Yes, an unnecessarily narrow working width means more passes, longer cleaning time and higher labor costs. Brushes and pads also wear out faster due to extra use. If your space allows for a wider machine, this is usually more cost effective in the long run.
Can I adjust the working width of my scrubber later?
No, the working width is determined by the scrub deck and chassis of the machine and cannot be adjusted. If cleaning needs change, you will have to purchase a different machine. That is why it is important to take future changes in your business operations into account when purchasing.
What working width is ideal for mixed environments with both open spaces and tight passageways?
For mixed environments, a working width of 46 cm is often the best compromise. This provides sufficient productivity in open spaces while maintaining maneuverability. Alternatively, consider purchasing two machines: a compact one for tight spaces and a wider one for large areas.