Cleaning & Maintenance Cleaning Machines

Single-disc scrubber

The most common mistakes committed by operators are in the handling of the single-disc machine without receiving proper training from the vendor/supplier. It is highly recommended that any operator who is entrusted with the machine should have knowledge not just about the operation of the machine but also about preventive maintenance measures and usage methods for different applications of the machine.

Following are the mistakes that the operator is prone to committing while using of the machine:

Balancing: The smooth operation of a single disc scrubber lies in its balancing. When the base is parallel to the floor, the machine stays put at the same place and it starts moving sideways at the slightest forward-backward movement of the handle. The handling lies in the balancing ability and not use of force or power of the operator. Most machines have a safety mechanism which prevents them from starting when the handle is in upright position. The operator should not fiddle with the lever when the brush is fixed and the handle is in upright position, as it might cause damage to the machine.

Plug and socket: Operators sometimes remove the earthing pin from the plug, if they do not find a three-pin socket. This could turn dangerous. An extension board could be used instead. Further, jerking plugs from power outlet can damage the plug or cable. This is most common among operators.

Solution tank: Operators mostly do not want to use the solution tank when cleaning large areas and splash the water directly on the ground. Not realising the machine close by has electrical parts can lead to short circuit. All the electrical parts such as motor, cable are exactly below the solution tank in all single disc scrubbers. Water can spill on to these parts, if the solution tank is filled with the handle in upright position. The motor could get burnt when switched on wet. Operators tend to leave the cleaning solution in the solution tank. After completion of the cleaning task, the cleaning solution should always be emptied. At times, the operator may fill the solution tank first and then fix the brush by tilting the machine. The solution from the tank could spill out in such as case.

Cables: While operating the single-disc, the cable from the machine should be behind the operator and should not come in the path of cleaning. Machines should not be used if there are loose electrical contacts either inside the machine or inside the power source of the room.

Brush and pads: Brushes or pads should be changed timely to prevent damage to the motor. When machines run with worn out consumables like brushes or pads, it puts more load on the motor, thus reducing it life.

Carpet cleaning: Carpet shampooing on loose carpets can be hazardous. While shampooing, the operator should ensure that the carpet is either fixed or heavy enough not to let the brush get entangled in the carpet. This is harmful for the carpet as well as the motor. Single disc scrubbers can be operated by the lightest of users with the right balancing of the machine

Samir Sabu

Vacuum Cleaners

When it comes to vacuum cleaners, mistakes can occur while selecting, operating and lastly, while maintaining.

Selection of vacuum cleaner

Vacuum cleaners come with two options – Dry and Wet & Dry. In the dry category, the end-user has to choose upright, drum or backpack. Most of the operators in general, use drum vacuum cleaner in places where upright or backpack is recommended or is ideal. Along with the category, the capacity of the equipment is equally important. Wrong selection in terms of voltage & container capacity can lead to frequent breakdowns and overloading of the vacuum cleaner respectively.

Operation of a vacuum cleaner

Operators seldom check the power supply. Fluctuations in power supply damage the electrical parts of the vacuum cleaner, including the motor.

Operators often mix the accessories for wet and dry applications. Accessories for dry process when used for wet applications can get damaged. In wet application, accessories that are left unclean, when used again could reduce the efficiency of the machine. Often a vacuum cleaner is damaged because of mishandling, especially in the hands of untrained operators. Most of the operators tend to stamp on the wire / hose while using the machines.

Maintenance of a vacuum cleaner

It is a general rule to clean the vacuum cleaner every time after use to enhance the life of the machine and its consumables. If the dust bag is full, it can put pressure on the motor and damage it.

Anirudh Bhosale