Which scrubber fits your budget?
The right scrubber for your business depends on several factors: the size of your space, type of floor and frequency of use. Budget scrubbers are available in a variety of designs, from compact used models to new walk-behind machines. For larger areas, ride-on models are available, ranging from used to new professional machines.
Why is choosing the right scrubber so important for your business?
An appropriate scrubber directly determines the cleaning results and cost-effectiveness of your floor maintenance. The wrong choice often leads to machines sitting in the corner and barely used, leaving company floors still dirty.
Different types of business require specific machines. Small offices have different requirements than large production halls or shopping malls. Too small a machine in a large space makes for inefficient work, while too large a machine in cramped spaces is inconvenient.
Professional floor cleaning with the right scrubber ensures safe workplaces by removing dirt and grease. This prevents slippery, rough or greasy floors and minimizes the risk of accidents. In addition, regular scrubbing contributes to the professional appearance of your business.
What are the different categories for scrubbers?
The scrubber market has clear budget categories with different functionalities for each class.
| Category | New machines | Used machines | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | Affordable option | Very advantageous | Walk-behind, smaller tanks, basic functions |
| Mid-range | Good value for money | Excellent value | Bigger tanks, better batteries, more comfort |
| Professional | Premium quality | Premium option | Ride-on models, large capacity, advanced features |
| Premium | Top-of-the-line | Luxury version | Sweep-scrub combinations, maximum capacity |
In each category, you get different battery types. Lead acid batteries are cost-effective but require monthly maintenance. Gel batteries are maintenance-free but have a higher purchase cost. Lithium batteries offer the most flexibility but are the most advanced option.
How do you determine which type of scrubber is best for your space?
The choice between different scrubber types depends on your space size and practical considerations.
Walk-behind scrubbers are ideal for areas up to 1,000 sq. ft. They are maneuverable, have a lower investment and are suitable for tight spaces with many obstacles. These machines do require physical effort from the user.
Ride-on scrubbers work best for large areas from 2,000 sq. ft. and up. They offer more comfort, have larger water tanks and higher cleaning capacity of up to 17,560 m² per hour. Working widths range from 96 cm to 154 cm.
Sweep-scrub combinations combine sweeping and scrubbing in one pass. These machines are perfect for areas with a lot of dirt and debris, such as parking garages, production halls and distribution centers. They eliminate the need for two separate machines.
The floor type also determines your choice. Tile, vinyl, wood and stone require specific brushes, pads and cleaners for optimal results.
Which brands offer the best quality?
Different brands excel in specific categories and applications. Tennant is known for reliability in the premium segment, while Hako provides strong machines for industrial applications.
Nilfisk offers a wide range for different needs with good parts supply. Fimap focuses on innovative technologies and user-friendliness. Comac provides solid machines with excellent quality in the mid-range segment.
Meijer's own brand, introduced in 2014, combines simplicity, quality and accessibility. These machines offer a good entry point for businesses looking for reliable cleaning at an excellent value.
Factory Cat specializes in rugged machines for tough industrial environments. When comparing scrubbers, it is important to consider not only the purchase price, but also ease of maintenance, parts availability and serviceability.
What are the advantages of renting versus buying a scrubber?
The choice between renting, leasing and buy scrubber depends on your frequency of use and operating situation.
Buying is advantageous with daily use and long-term planning. You build ownership and have full control over maintenance and use. For companies with fixed cleaning routines, this is often the most economical option.
Renting offers flexibility for temporary projects or seasonal peaks. You don't have a large upfront investment and maintenance is often included. This is ideal for companies that are still determining their cleaning needs.
Leasing combines advantages of both options. You spread the investment over several years, often have service contracts included and can upgrade to newer models. For facility managers who want predictable spending and don't have time for ad hoc maintenance, leasing is often the best option.
How do you make the smartest choice for your scrubber?
A smart choice begins with determining your actual cleaning needs. Calculate the area to be cleaned, desired cleaning frequency and available time. This will help you find the right industrial scrubber select without oversizing or undersizing.
Consider the total property value, including maintenance, replacement parts and energy consumption. A machine with a low purchase value may be disadvantageous due to high maintenance costs or low reliability.
Consider service contracts that offer preventive maintenance, benefits on parts and extended warranties. These contracts prevent unexpected expenses and ensure optimal performance.
At Metech, we'll help you find the perfect scrubber for every need to find. With more than 700 machines in stock, on-site demonstrations and our expertise since 2004, we guide you to the best choice for your specific situation. Our consulting process includes a needs analysis, telephone consultation and hands-on demonstration at your location. For more information you can always contact us.