What are common problems with scrubbers?
Scrubber problems often occur due to inadequate maintenance, misuse and normal wear and tear of parts. The most common failures are technical defects in motor and electronics, problems with water supply and suction, and brush and pad wear. With regular preventive maintenance, you can prevent most scrubber problems and keep your industrial cleaning equipment in optimal condition longer.
Introduction: why do problems arise with scrubbers?
Problems with scrubbers usually arise from a combination of heavy use and insufficient preventive maintenance. Industrial cleaning equipment such as scrubbers often work in demanding conditions with lots of dust, dirt and moisture.
The impact on your operations can be significant. A broken scrubber means your floor cleaning problems, which directly affects the hygiene and safety of your workplace. In addition, unexpected repairs can lead to unplanned downtime and lost productivity.
The most common failures you will encounter are:
- Engine problems and electrical failures
- Clogged or leaking water systems
- Worn brushes and pads
- Problems with the extraction function
- Battery problems in wireless models
What are the most common technical problems with scrubbers?
Technical problems in scrubbers usually manifest themselves as motor problems, electrical failures, brush defects and water system problems. These scrubber malfunction can completely shut down your cleaning process.
Motor problems can be recognized by unusual noises, reduced suction power or brushes that stop turning. This is often due to overloading, dirt in the motor system or worn carbon brushes. Electrical failures manifest themselves by machines that do not start up, suddenly shut down or operate erratically.
Brush defects occur due to wear and tear, incorrect assembly or incorrect pressure setting. You notice this by streaking on the floor, insufficient cleaning results or abnormal vibrations during scrubbing.
| Problem | Symptoms | Possible cause |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Defect | Unusual noises, no rotation | Overload, dirt, worn parts |
| Electrical failure | Does not start up, drops out | Loose connections, faulty switch |
| Brush problem | Streaking, vibration | Wear and tear, incorrect assembly |
How do you recognize problems with the water supply and suction?
Water and suction problems can be recognized by poor cleaning results, water puddles on the floor or reduced suction power. These problems often arise from clogged hoses, faulty pumps or leaks in the water system.
Clogged hoses are a common problem. You notice this by reduced water flow or suction. Check regularly for dirt, hair or debris in the hoses. Faulty pumps can be recognized by irregular water flow or pumps that don't work at all.
Leaks in the water tank or hoses can be seen in puddles of water under the machine or a tank emptying faster than normal. Water tank problems can also be caused by damaged lids, faulty valves or a broken float.
For an initial diagnosis check:
- Water level in the clean and dirty water tank
- Hoses for blockages and damage
- Pumping on unusual sounds
- Water supply during scrubbing
- Suction power of the system
Why do problems arise with brushes and pads on scrubbers?
Brush and pad problems arise from normal wear and tear, improper assembly, improper pressure setting and material defects. These problems have direct impact on cleaning result and can lead to damage to your floor.
Wear and tear is the most common problem. Brushes and pads wear out with use and must be replaced regularly. You can recognize worn brushes by short, uneven bristles or pads that have become smooth and thin.
Improper mounting leads to uneven pressure distribution and can cause damage to both the brush and the floor. Always check that brushes and pads are correctly attached and properly centered.
Improper pressure setting can result in too little cleaning power (too low pressure) or floor damage and faster wear (too high pressure). Adjust the pressure setting based on your floor type and dirt level.
Material defects such as loose bristles or tears in pads can damage the machine and should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage.
How do you avoid the most common scrubber problems?
Preventive measures are the best way to scrubber maintenance effectively and extend the life of your equipment. Regular maintenance prevents most problems and keeps your sweeper scrubber in optimal condition.
Daily maintenance includes emptying and cleaning water tanks, checking brushes and pads for wear, and cleaning filters and hoses. Be sure to always store the machine dry to prevent corrosion.
On a weekly basis, check all hoses for damage, test pumps and suction, and inspect electrical connections. With battery-powered machines, it is important to charge and check the batteries regularly.
Monthly you perform more thorough maintenance:
- Thorough cleaning of all parts
- Inspection of engine parts and bearings
- Inspection of electrical systems
- Calibration of pressure and water settings
- Replacement of worn parts
Professional service contracts offer the security of regular inspection by qualified technicians. This helps you spot problems early and prevents complex repairs.
Conclusion: when to seek professional help for scrubber problems?
Minor maintenance tasks such as cleaning filters, replacing brushes and checking water levels can be done by yourself. More complex problems such as motor defects, electrical failures or major leaks require professional help.
Call in a specialist immediately in case of safety problems, unexplained malfunctions or when repairs require specialized knowledge. This will prevent further damage and dangerous situations.
Preventive maintenance remains the best investment for your industrial cleaning equipment. A well-maintained scrubber will last longer, operate more efficiently and is less likely to fail unexpectedly.
At Metech, we understand the importance of reliable cleaning equipment to your operations. We not only offer high-quality new and used scrubbers from top brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk and our own Meijer brand, but also complete service contracts for optimal maintenance of your machines. For more information about our services you can always contact us.