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How to choose the right scrubber dryer

A scrubber dryer is the ideal helper if you want to thoroughly clean large areas. To do this, scrubber dryers combine all the most important work steps of scrubbing, mopping and vacuuming into a single device. The rapid rotation of the floor scrubbing machine dislodges dirt and other hard-to-clean particles from the substrate with ease. At the same time, loose material is collected via suction and deposited in a tank within the scrubber dryer. Grime, liquid and encrusted solids can be cleaned reliably because all models are also equipped with a large-capacity water tank. Industrial floor scrubbers are particularly suitable for cleaning large warehouses and workspaces quickly and thoroughly.

Most models have height-adjustable handles, seats (where applicable) and steering columns to make them straightforward and comfortable to use. Some models feature an LED indicator to let you know when the water tank is almost empty and needs to be refilled. The wheels are made from robust and durable polyurethane (PE), allowing them to operate smoothly and quietly without leaving any abrasions on the floor.

1. Advantages of using a scrubber dryer

Nilfisk® SC 351 scrubber dryer

As versatile cleaning devices for professional applications, our scrubber machines offer many advantages:

  • The scrubber dryer performs several cleaning functions simultaneously, saving a significant amount of time when cleaning large areas.
  • Each model from our range cleans with a constant brush pressure and distributes water and detergent evenly. Cleaning with our scrubber dryers is therefore more thorough and hygienic than manual alternatives.
  • Our commercial floor scrubbers directly absorb all water used for mopping. This ensures that areas – particularly in environments with high footfall – are cleaned safely as there is no risk of slipping.
  • The brush contact pressure and water consumption can be individually adjusted to match the degree of soiling and the substrate. This allows you to use the scrubbing machine in an energy-efficient way while also protecting target surfaces.
  • With a scrubber dryer, users can clean large areas safely, ergonomically and without tiring or unnecessary strain.
  • Thanks to the low operation noise, our scrubbers can be used during operating hours without disrupting customers or employees.
  • Many of our machines are available in a compact design making them easy to manoeuvre. This makes them suitable for floor cleaning in narrow corridors or unusual layouts.

2. Buy a scrubber dryer with the right brush technology

Nilfisk® SC401 scrubber dryer

Every scrubber dryer available from our online shop is powerful and efficient – regardless of the type of brush installed. The sweepers work to remove soiling by using water and cleaning agents to dislodge soiling. Depending on the machine type, this is done either by adding cleaning agents directly to the clean water tank or via an automatic dosing system, positioned in front of the brush head.

By rotating the cleaning brushes and applying the desired contact pressure, dry and liquid dirt is removed from the substrate without leaving any residue. Waste is then sucked into the dirt tank of the scrubbing machine automatically. Suction and vacuum equipment is made from high-quality para rubber, which is resistant to temperature and tear.

For optimal cleaning results, the brush technology of your scrubber dryer should be suitable for the surface type and expected contaminants.

Built-in brush type Functionality Application
Disc brushes Disc brush of a scrubber dryer
  • Cleaning is done by rotation and contact pressure of the brushes
  • Available with one or two discs
  • Brushes mainly clean superficially
  • Ideal for cleaning moderately dirty, smooth surfaces
  • Suitable device for maintenance cleaning
  • Suitable for noise-sensitive areas
Roller brushes Roller brush of a scrubber dryer
  • Cleaning is carried out by contact pressure (approx. seven times higher than with disc brushes) and fast brush rotation
  • Brushes cope with coarse dirt and deep cleaning
  • Ideal for removing coarse dirt on textured surfaces
  • Can also thoroughly clean corners and edges

3. Determine the right scrubber dryer operating method

Commercial floor scrubbers for use in industry, hospitality and trade are available in our online shop with two different operating methods namely hand-operated and ride-on. The cleaning principles are the same for both types, depending on the brush type. The best operating method for you depends on the size and type of area being maintained.

Operating Method Hand-operated scrubber dryer Ride-on scrubber dryer
Nilfisk® SC 351 scrubber dryerNilfisk® BR 652/752 ride-on scrubber dryer
Details
  • Ergonomically shaped push handle
  • Large or small scrubber dryer available
  • Includes freshwater tank
  • Motorised brush drive
  • Disc or roller brushes available
  • Equipped with driver's seat and steering wheel
  • Travel speeds up to 6 mph possible
  • Very high suction and cleaning performance
  • Disc or roller brushes available
Drive
  • Lithium-ion battery or mains operation (power cord 10 to 12m long)
  • Forward and reverse drive (depending on model)
  • Lithium-ion battery operation enables a wide range of applications
  • Forward and reverse drive on all machines
Applications
  • Ideal for small to medium-sized areas and for intermediate cleaning
  • Also suitable for restrictive areas (depending on machine size)
  • Ideal for very large, unobstructed areas

4. Other important selection criteria for a scrubber dryer

Choosing the right type of brush and the operating method of the scrubber dryer are the most important criteria for finding a suitable model. In addition, take the following parameters into account:

  • Area performance: This value indicates the surface area per hour that can be cleaned. Depending on the model, surface area cleaning can be as high as 10,000 m²/h.
  • Working width: The larger the working width, the more efficiently you clean large surface areas. For small or obstructed areas, devices with a lower working width can be easier to operate.
  • Tank volume: Usually, scrubber dryers with a high area performance are also equipped with large fresh and dirty water tanks. Nevertheless, it may be necessary to select a large tank volume even for devices with a lower area output. This makes sense if frequent tank changes would be very time-consuming, e.g. because the utility areas are too far away.


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