Selecting Floor Cleaning Machines: Satisfying Requirements & Budgets

This article was originally published in American School & Hospital Facility

As more cleaning standards are put in place, and maintenance budgets decrease, facility managers struggle to find effective methods to clean floors without increasing costs. Facilities such as hospitals and schools are subject to daily, continuous foot traffic, which can result in floors becoming heavily soiled very quickly. Soiled floors not only detract from the overall appearance of the facility, but slick dirt and grime can cause slip and fall hazards while dust and other particles can impact indoor air quality.

To overcome these challenges and meet current sustainable cleaning requirements, healthcare and education facilities should utilize cleaning equipment that maximizes soil removal without increasing labor or affecting the environment—satisfying industry standards while keeping the cost of cleaning within budgets.

Today, cleaning professionals can select from a variety of cleaning equipment that is designed to provide flexibility and meet cleaning needs. By understanding and identifying their cleaning challenges, facility managers can select the ideal cleaning solution(s) that promote facility sustainability—minimizing labor, chemical and water requirements without sacrificing results.

Ensuring education and healthcare facilities maintain a certain level of cleanliness is important to preserve the health and well-being of building occupants. In order to ascertain their cleaning equipment needs, facility managers must be able to identify their exact cleaning requirements and implement solutions designed to satisfy these needs. Read the full article here to learn about cleaning requirements in education and healthcare facilities.

Cleaning The Right Way Makes You Smarter

This article was originally published in Cleaning & Maintenance Management. 

By Roni Barker

According to the best-selling book, Spark, by Dr. John Ratey of Harvard Medical School and a member of the Healthy Facilities Institute (HFI) Advisory Board, brain growth happens as a result of regular exercise.

That growth is especially pronounced when the exercise includes activities requiring an acquisition of skills. Thus, Ratey explains, learning to play the piano can make you smarter for performing algebra because developing the skills needed to play the piano creates brain connections that can be used to perform other tasks.

What does this have to do with cleaning? Simply put: Everything.

Learning the precise and well-orchestrated movements and skills needed for cleaning and disinfection tasks that produce repeatable results — a great example is Process Cleaning for Healthy Schools (PC4HS) — builds brain cells for other activities. The bottom line is that, process-based cleaners and, indeed, any skilled custodial professionals, are smarter than their unskilled counterparts.

Per Dr. Ratey, for maximum brain development, you need both aerobic and skill-based exercise. Building upon this, cleaning and learning better, faster, healthier ways of executing tasks should aid in brain growth.

Dust Magnet™ Dry Mopping System

The Dust Magnet™ dry mopping system is the preferred way to remove dust and light dirt from hard surfaces at major hospitals, schools, nursing homes, health care and other facilities.

The standard Dust Magnet floor tool and shaft has single or multiple sheets that easily attach to the aluminum frame. The telescopic handle extends to 79 inches (201 cm) making it ideal for hard-to-reach and overhead areas. The entire unit weighs less than 2 lb (0.91 kg)

Reduce Costs And Improve Perception With Quality Floor Finishes

This article was originally published in Housekeeping Solutions. 

We abuse them and walk all over them—and are quick to pass judgment if they aren't pristine. Whether they're in an office building, a school or a supermarket, floors bare the brunt of unrelenting traffic—abuse that can leave them looking lackluster and reflect poorly on the facility.

In conjunction with a daily floor maintenance program, custodians rely on sealers and finishes to not only improve and maintain the appearance of flooring but, more importantly, protect it from daily wear and tear.

The most common type of flooring that requires the use of sealers and finishes is vinyl composition tile (VCT), which is found in many public buildings and institutions, such as schools, hospitals and commercial facilities. Newer synthetic flooring is also becoming more popular and requires a similar floor care regimen.

When it comes to applying floor finishes and sealers, experts generally recommend two coats of sealer to fill in porous surfaces and prevent staining. But today's products have come a long way; new floor finishes on the market often preclude the need for a separate sealer.

Read the full article here to learn more about quality floor finishes. 

New Clarke Disc Scrubber for Kimberly Clarke Hanger

A new Clarke disc scrubber was put into the Kimberly Clarke hanger.

A Look Back at ISSA/INTERCLEAN North America 2012

We had a blast at ISSA/INTERCLEAN in Chicago! Check out this photo of our trolley that was posted on CleanLink.

Visit CleanLink to relive your memories or see what you missed during the ISSA/INTERCLEAN 2012 trade show.

Your Soil Is Showing

This article was originally published in Cleaning & Maintenance Management.

Just like any other floor surface, carpet takes a beating from foot traffic. And, if a facility has extended hours of operation and a high occupation density, the carpet can receive quite a bit of abuse. However, building occupants do not walk on all parts of a carpet; they track soils indoors in specific patterns that quickly develop into traffic lanes.

Facilities that take a proactive approach and clean their carpets on a consistent and regimented basis rarely need to worry about traffic lane soiling. But, locations with lower operating budgets, insufficient staffing relative to foot traffic or those not making use of floor matting tend to view traffic lane soiling as problematic.

If you remove dry particulate soils from carpets frequently and thoroughly, less intensive cleaning will be necessary. Especially in entrances and hallways, foot traffic is intensified and fibers become prematurely worm, matted down and rapidly soiled. If not cleaned properly and frequently, traffic lanes can be a real eyesore to an otherwise clean carpet.

So, the question is: “How can traffic lane soiling be remedied or even prevented in the first place?”

The answer is not universal to all facilities and can change with the seasons. Read the full article here to learn about four key factors in you carpet care procedures.

Splitscreen Clean Clarke

Focus® II Rider With Chemical-Free Finish Removal Provides Increased Productivity for Floor Cleaning Applications

The cost-efficient Focus® II Rider with BOOST® delivers simple operation while meeting green cleaning requirements. Available with a 28- or 34-inch disk deck or a 28-inch BOOST® deck, the Focus II Rider satisfies diverse cleaning applications, ranging from university entryways to floor finish removal in healthcare facility hallways.

Featuring Clarke’s innovative BOOST® technology, the Focus® II Rider 28-inch BOOST® deck delivers quality cleaning with the ultimate in green benefits.

BOOST® eliminates costly chemicals, slippery floors and undesirable odors with easy floor finish removal without the use of chemicals. With BOOST®, the Focus® II Rider uses up to 70 percent less solution, extends equipment pad life by 40 percent, provides longer battery runtime and cuts labor time in half.

With diverse performance features, the Focus® II Rider is ideal for a variety of applications, ranging from education and healthcare facilities to hospitality facilities and government buildings. Larger cleaning applications, such as automotive dealerships and entertainment and sport arenas also benefit from the Focus® II Rider’s highly-productive cleaning capabilities.

Focus® II Rider

The Focus® II Rider provides increased productivity, while reducing cleaning costs, through the following benefits:

• Chemical-free floor finish removal eliminates costly chemicals, slippery floors and undesirable odors, while saving labor and cleaning costs
• Up to 155 minutes of continuous scrubbing without a dump or refill minimizes downtown, while enhancing productivity
• Increased down pressure of up to 225 pounds allows for one pass cleaning of heavy soils
• Best-in-class maneuverability and water pickup with a wide turning radius and heavy-duty steel side skirts provide superior wiping and water containment

How to Add "Green" to the Bottom Line

This article was originally published in Rental.

For the past few years, the topic of sustainability and the green movement have taken a back seat to the economy. Even though customers understood the value of being an environmental steward and purchasing with a “green” intent, saving money trumped saving the environment. In other words, a sustainable green message temporarily was lost. The key word is temporary. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified homes, products with the Green Seal of Approval, hybrid and electric automobiles, alternative energy solutions, recycling initiatives, water conservation strategies, among other sustainable solutions, are again making their way back into the news.

Rental houses have an opportunity to take advantage of green in a couple of product areas, including renting floor equipment that is designed to have a minimal impact on the environment. “Green is not a fad,” says Paul Albrecht, national account manager for Clarke Equipment. “The rental market usually follows what has become popular in professional applications. Hospitals and school districts especially are continually buying more products that are green, which means rental houses will likely see an increased demand in the same way.”

To learn about Clarke's floor cleaning equipment solutions, read the full article here.

Green Cleaning in Schools

This article was originally published in Cleaning & Maintenance Management.

Healthy Schools Campaign (HSC) is pleased to announce the release of the updated fourth edition of the highly-regarded Quick & Easy Guide to Green Cleaning in Schools and recognize the team whose support has made the impact of this guide and the related Green Clean Schools initiative so significant, according to a press release.

Since HSC launched the Green Clean Schools initiative in 2006, the movement for green cleaning in schools has grown significantly, with state-level legislation requiring green cleaning in schools, federal recognition of the importance of green cleaning, marketplace change and much more, the release stated.

According to the release, the fourth edition was developed with the support of 25 national education stakeholder organizations and 22 cleaning industry corporate leaders following the distribution of nearly 125,000 copies of the popular and highly-regarded previous editions.

Ten states now require green cleaning in schools and the federal government now recognizes green cleaning as a priority with programs such as Green Ribbon Schools and the recently-released U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) state school environmental health guidelines, the release noted.

Click here to read the full article.

Vote For the Focus® II MicroRider™ in ISSA's 2012 Innovation Award Program

The Clarke Focus® II MicroRider™ is a small, easily maneuverable machine that is designed to clean the areas that are inaccessible with larger riders—including those with limited access or tight corners. Yet, with a 26 or 28 inch deck, the Focus II MicroRider offers a wide cleaning path for maximum productivity in your larger cleaning areas.

The low-profile SatetyGlide™ deck eliminates wasted time and money spent on side skirts, and irritating watermarks. Simply turn the steering wheel; as the machine turns, the deck automatically moves in line with the path of the rear squeegee, resulting in 100% water pick-up. With a spring-loaded safety design, you no longer have to worry about accuracy or accidental contact for edge cleaning. The deck ensures precise, straight edge cleaning without additional labor-intensive detail edge mopping.

Enhanced with BOOST® Technology, the Focus II MicroRider is available with a 28 inch BOOST deck, delivering high levels of cleaning with the ultimate in green benefits. Say goodbye to costly chemicals, slippery floors and undesirable odors. BOOST allows for easy floor finish removal without the use of chemicals. Plus, this efficient technology uses up to 70% less solution, extends equipment pad life by 40%, provides longer battery runtimes and cuts labor time in half.

The Focus II MicroRider is an equipment contestant in ISSA's 2012 Innovation Award Program. To vote, visit http://www.issa.com/vote. 

Orbital Floor Machine

The Clarke BOS-18 offers operators our powerful BOOST® technology in a floor machine. Available in a low-speed and a high-speed model, the BOS-18 is the ideal orbital floor machine for small areas and detail work that larger autoscrubbers cannot reach. BOOST technology is ideal for the chemical-free removal of floor finish in preparation for finish recoats.

The BOS-18 Low Speed cleans at 1,725 ¼ inch orbits per minute. With a totally enclosed motor, and lower speed, this model is ideal for cleaning noise sensitive areas. An optional solution tank will feed cleaning solution directly to the pad.

The BOS-18 High Speed will clean at 3,600 ¼ inch orbits per minute and is ideal for the toughest cleaning projects where noise is not an issue. The 4 gallon solution tank is included and feeds cleaning solution directly to the pad.

Squeaky Clean - Clarke

Top Ten Soils in Carpets Identified

This article was originally published in CleanLink News.

The key job of carpet cleaning is to remove soils from carpets. However, there are actually several different types of soils and contaminants found in carpets, and knowing what type of soil is in the carpet is frequently the first step in effectively removing it.

Because of this, this month's U.S. Products Carpet Cleaning Advisory focuses on the top ten soils that most often end up in carpets and how they got there in the first place.

1. Sand, clay, and other "gritty" materials
2. Natural fibers such as lint from clothing
3. Gum
4. Petroleum, oil, and grease
5. Human hair and skin
6. Dust mites, fleas, and other insects
7. Organic soils and materials (minerals and soils from landscaping areas, for example)
8. Airborne carbon and automotive exhaust
9. Spilled food or beverages
10. So-called "miscellaneous unknowns"

To tackle these soils, learn about various carpet cleaning solutions that are available to you. 

Clarke BOOST® Auto Scrubber

 The Ultimate Green Machine!

Check out how the BOOST® orbital scrubber technology from Clarke removes floor finish without chemicals.

Hard Floor Care: More Shine, More Satisfaction

This article was originally posted in Cleaning & Maintenance Management

In North American markets, the level of shine on a floor reflects the performance of the custodial crew, with high gloss perceived as superior. Interestingly, in many European markets, more of a matte finish is preferred.

According to Bill Griffin, president of Cleaning Consultant Services Inc., it is a matter of differing opinion. "We polish it to a shine and, in Europe, they would shoot you for destroying the historic integrity of the floor if you patched it or made it shine," proclaims Griffin.

So, you want a shiny floor because it looks great, is more durable and, last but not least, you feel a sense of pride from gazing at a mirror-like finish. But, how do you get from a dull floor to one worthy of reflection? It is all in the ongoing, daily maintenance. However, the process begins with selecting a finish that will withstand a constant onslaught of foot traffic and detergents.

Choosing The Proper Finish

There are two basic camps regarding floor finish — what longtime industry veterans would refer to as wax. High solids finishes, which have a greater concentration of polymers, and low solids finishes, which contain more water. Solids content is what remains on the floor surface after a finish has been applied and the water contained therein fully evaporated. Generally, high solids finishes dry more quickly and are more resistant to scuffing, marring and other degradation. Low solids finishes are typically less expensive and require an area to be out of commission longer due to increased curing times.

As one would imagine, a low solids finish — roughly 18 percent to 22 percent polymer content — is more susceptible to discoloration and will not react as positively to frequent burnishing as will a high solids finish of roughly 22 percent or higher polymer content. However, the higher the solids percentage in a finish, the more difficult it will be to spread out evenly on a floor, opening the door to uneven gloss, mop swirls and worse if proper procedures are not followed.

Depending on the type of traffic your facility receives and the amount of resources at your availability for daily maintenance, your choice of floor finish will vary. A general rule of thumb is that high solids finishes require fewer coats to achieve a protected shine while lower solids finishes require increased stripping and refinishing cycles.

But, regardless of how many coats you apply — four to six thin layers of finish, with five being ideal — and notwithstanding the types of polymers present in your finish and their concentration, your success hinges on your maintenance.

Read the full article here. 

Vantage 14 Micro Scrubber Marks a Breakthrough in Daily Scrubbing for Small Area Cleaning

Clarke introduces the new Vantage 14 Micro Scrubber, a battery scrubber designed for small-area cleaning applications. With its fully-adjustable rotating deck, the Vantage 14 is capable of delivering effective cleaning results in both forward and backward directions.

Designed to replace traditional mop and bucket cleaning procedures, the Vantage 14 features a compact, maneuverable design, allowing users to tackle diverse cleaning jobs, ranging from convenience store entryways to quick serve restaurant kitchens. The innovative rotating deck features an integrated squeegee, providing simultaneous clean and dry capabilities in all directions. Operators can push the machine forward like a “normal” scrubber, or they can easily flip the machine up, triggering the deck to rotate for backward scrubbing performance—providing an ideal scrubbing option for tight, restricted spaces or behind counters.

The Vantage 14 delivers superior scrubbing performance and effortless operation through the following benefits:

• Reduced physical labor with brush-assisted technology and full battery-powered operation.
• Quiet operation at only 64 dB A allows for daytime cleaning without interrupting facility occupants.
• Extended operation with two-hour battery-operated runtime and convenient on-board battery charger.

The Vantage 14 is ideal for use in small area applications that require reduced noise and safe, clean floors. Applications include, but are not limited to: convenience stores, educational facilities, healthcare facilities, food service restaurants, gas stations and retail stores.

Strategies to Keep Schools Clean and Students Healthy

This article was originally published by Cleanlink News.

Although the first day of school represents a clean slate for students and their families, for facility managers, it's about putting a plan in place to ensure that hallways, classrooms and restrooms stay pristine well beyond the first day of classes. In order to protect the health and academic performance of students, Cintas Corporation announced three general cleaning principles facility managers should be mindful of as they develop their yearly cleaning plans.

"Student health and safety should always remain a top priority when cleaning schools," said Dave Mesko, senior director of marketing and strategy, Cintas. "By creating a clean and safe environment for students, facility managers will help to reduce absenteeism and improve student performance."

Three tips that will help facility managers keep schools in top condition include:

1. Improve air quality
2. Clean safely
3. Prevent the spread of bacteria

Read the full article here or learn about more cleaning solutions.

Selecting Floor Cleaning Machines: Satisfying Requirements & Budgets

As more cleaning standards are put in place, and maintenance budgets decrease, facility managers struggle to find effective methods to clean floors without increasing costs. Facilities such as hospitals and schools are subject to daily, continuous foot traffic, which can result in floors becoming heavily soiled very quickly. Soiled floors not only detract from the overall appearance of the facility, but slick dirt and grime can cause slip and fall hazards while dust and other particles can impact indoor air quality.

To overcome these challenges and meet current sustainable cleaning requirements, healthcare and education facilities should utilize cleaning equipment that maximizes soil removal without increasing labor or effecting the environment— satisfying industry standards while keeping the cost of cleaning within budgets.

Today, cleaning professionals can select from a variety of cleaning equipment that is designed to provide flexibility and meet cleaning needs. By understanding and identifying their cleaning challenges, facility managers can select the ideal cleaning solution(s) that promote facility sustainability—minimizing labor, chemical and water requirements without sacrificing results.

Learn more about this important topic by reading the full article.

More Than A Vacuum

This article was originally published by Housekeeping Solutions.

Manufacturers and distributors agree that the wet/dry vacuum can be used in any facility type and in any situation. Aside from the occasional natural disaster, one of the more common methods of use is in entryways and lobbies following storms.

Liquid recovery is accomplished with either the wand and optional squeegee, or with the attachable front-mount squeegee. According to distributors, the mounted squeegee is a high productivity solution to recovering large amounts of liquids. Most models function in both forward and reverse motion, making for quick completion of jobs.

This mounted squeegee can also save departments time when cleaning floors. Many departments will apply floor chemicals and then squeegee and remove those chemicals with the wet/dry vacuum. In some facilities, this smaller equipment option is a nice alternative to large floor scrubbers. Distributors comment that the addition of the squeegee makes a wet/dry vacuum a very versatile piece of equipment.

Read the full article here, or learn about our wet/dry vacuum solutions.

Clarke Clean Track® L24 Carpet Extractor Delivers Sustainable Deep Cleaning Results

The Clarke Clean Track® L24 is the newest battery-powered, walk-behind model in the company’s Clean Track family of carpet extractors. Featuring LIFT™ (Low-moisture, Indirect spray, Fast dry time, True cleaning) technology, the Clean Track L24 achieves carpet dry times of 30 minutes or less—allowing for maximum productivity. Moreover, with class-leading sound levels, the Clarke Clean Track L24 is ideal for daytime cleaning in noise-sensitive areas such as education, healthcare and hospitality facilities.

In addition to providing a time-saving deep clean, the Clean Track L24 delivers enhanced, sustainable operation, providing the following benefits:

• Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Seal-of-Approval certification ensures the Clean Track extractors meet the highest standards of soil and water removal
• Quiet operation, at only 69 dB A, the L24 meets the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Existing Buildings’ (LEED-EB) IEQ credit guidelines for green cleaning equipment
• Onboard Detergent Dispensing minimizes the use of detergent and water while allowing users the flexibility to use any brand of green-certified detergent, eliminating the need to purchase a proprietary chemical
• Deep Treat™ single-pass, pre-spray ensures proper dilution and application of detergent, minimizing detergent use and costs

Read the entire release here.

 

Focus® II MicroRider™

The Clarke Focus® II MicroRider™ is a small, easily maneuverable machine that is designed to clean the areas that are inaccessible with larger riders—including those with limited access or tight corners. Yet, with a 26 or 28 inch deck, the Focus II MicroRider offers a wide cleaning path for maximum productivity in your larger cleaning areas.

The low-profile SatetyGlide™ deck eliminates wasted time and money spent on side skirts, and irritating watermarks. Simply turn the steering wheel; as the machine turns, the deck automatically moves in line with the path of the rear squeegee, resulting in 100% water pick-up. With a spring-loaded safety design, you no longer have to worry about accuracy or accidental contact for edge cleaning. The deck ensures precise, straight edge cleaning without additional labor-intensive detail edge mopping.

Enhanced with BOOST® Technology, the Focus II MicroRider is available with a 28 inch BOOST deck, delivering high levels of cleaning with the ultimate in green benefits. Say goodbye to costly chemicals, slippery floors and undesirable odors. BOOST allows for easy floor finish removal without the use of chemicals. Plus, this efficient technology uses up to 70% less solution, extends equipment pad life by 40%, provides longer battery runtimes and cuts labor time in half.

The Focus II MicroRider is an equipment contestant in ISSA's 2012 Innovation Award Program. To vote, visit http://www.issa.com/vote.

How to Add "Green" to the Bottom Line

For the past few years, the topic of sustainability and the green movement have taken a back seat to the economy. Even though customers understood the value of being an environmental steward and purchasing with a “green” intent, saving money trumped saving the environment. In other words, a sustainable green message temporarily was lost. The key word is temporary. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified homes, products with the Green Seal of Approval, hybrid and electric automobiles, alternative energy solutions, recycling initiatives, water conservation strategies, among other sustainable solutions, are again making their way back into the news.

Rental houses have an opportunity to take advantage of green in a couple of product areas, including renting floor equipment that is designed to have a minimal impact on the environment. “Green is not a fad,” says Paul Albrecht, national account manager for Clarke Equipment. “The rental market usually follows what has become popular in professional applications. Hospitals and school districts especially are continually buying more products that are green, which means rental houses will likely see an increased demand in the same way.”

Read the full article here to learn about floor equipment solutions for rental houses. 

Clarke Enters Focus® II MicroRider™ into ISSA Innovation Award Program

Clarke has entered the Focus® II MicroRider™ into ISSA’s 2012 Innovation Award Program. The annual competition allows distributors and cleaning industry professionals to vote to determine the industry’s most innovative products and services in five unique categories, including: Cleaning Agents; Disposables; Equipment; Services & Technology; and Supplies. The Focus II MicroRider is entered into the “equipment” category. Voting opened on July 16, 2012.

The Focus II MicroRider with BOOST® is everything you need in a compact rider. The unique SafetyGlide™ scrub deck automatically moves in line with the path of the rear squeegee when the steering wheel turns, resulting in 100 percent water pick-up and eliminating the need for side skirts. With BOOST technology, you can now effectively remove floor finish chemically-free in a compact rider scrubber.

To vote for the Focus II MicroRider, visit http://www.issa.com/vote.

IAQ: Common Problems and Cost Saving Solutions

This article was originally published by American School & Hospital Facility

In schools, indoor air contaminants can either originate within the school building or be drawn in from the outdoors. If pollutant sources are not controlled, indoor air problems can develop, even if the HVAC system is properly designed, operated, and maintained. Sources of indoor air contamination include polluted outdoor air, underground sources (e.g., radon, pesticides, and leakage from underground storage tanks), and a variety of indoor sources (e.g., equipment, furnishings, and housekeeping supplies).

Concentration levels of air pollutants can vary greatly by time and location within a school building, or possibly a single classroom. Pollutants can be emitted from point sources, such as science storerooms, or from area sources, such as newly painted surfaces. And pollutants can vary with time, such as only when floor stripping is done. Indoor air often contains a variety of contaminants at concentrations that are well below any standards or guidelines for occupational exposure, so it can be difficult to relate specific health effects to exposures to specific pollutant concentrations, especially since the exposures may be to low levels of pollutant mixtures.

The IAQ problems that generally get the most attention are usually those that involve lots of complaints from staff and students. Issues can be exacerbated by allergic reactions and health issues. These often involve outdoor contaminants that are being entrained into the building with outdoor ventilation air, such as wood smoke. One of the most common issues involves vehicle emissions. Vehicle exhaust can be problematic when the school is located in an urban setting or near heavily traveled roads, such as a highway. And the exhaust from school buses, unloading b e f o r e and after school, can be a common culprit. For hospitals, special attention is required to clean the air of contaminants that may jeopardize patient safety. More outside ventilation air is commonly used in hospitals than in typical commercial spaces. Like schools, in many urban —and even many suburban—healthcare settings, outdoor air can be more problematic than indoor air.

Read the full article here.

All-Purpose Cleaning

The TFC 400 is a powerful and versatile all-purpose cleaner. Charged with 400 psi of power-spraying punch, the TFC 400 cleaner gives you the ability to blast away grit and grime without actually having contact with the dirt. With the 20 gallon solution tank and 13 gallon recovery tank, the TFC 400 cleaner gives you the ability to tackle the really big cleaning jobs quickly and thoroughly.

Vacuuming During Day Cleaning

This article was originally published by Contracting Profits

If I want to use a vacuum for day cleaning: How quiet does it need to be?
In this article, industry manufacturers answer common questions asked by building service contractors.

The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED certification requires that a vacuum be under 70 dBA in order to qualify for the IEQ credit. This should be sufficient for most schools and hospitals. In facilities where peace and quiet are critical, a vacuum with two modes can be used, a power mode for after hours cleaning, and a quiet mode that runs at just 51 dBA for daytime. A normal conversation is around 67 dBA, so these vacuums are practically invisible to building occupants.
— Jacalyn High, director of marketing, ProTeam, Boise, Idaho

At minimum, day cleaning operations require quiet, commercial-strength vacuums that operate below 70 decibels, so staff can clean day and night with less impact on the workers around them.

— David Parkes, general manager, Sanitaire, Charlotte, N.C.

This is dependent on the facility that is being cleaned. Every facility that goes to day cleaning wants a lower sound level, which all manufacturers are striving to achieve. The challenge is the trade off, since reducing sound levels also reduces cleaning effectiveness of the vacuum cleaner; in most cases, small motors and reduced air flow are required to achieve needed sound levels for day cleaning.

— Brad Nyholm, product manager: commercial/dealer for Hoover/Royal Brands, TTI Floorcare North America, Glenwillow, Ohio

Learn about Clarke carpet vacuum cleaning solutions at: http://www.clarkeus.com/products/carpetvacuums.aspx

Three Ways To Prolong Deep-Cleaning Carpet Extractions

This article was originally published by Sanitary Maintenance

There’s no question that the economy is having an impact on the budgets of cleaning departments and facility managers. When end users need to cut back on carpet care costs, distributors can implement strategies that reduce the need for expensive deep-cleaning extractions.

Three effective strategies include:

• The power of a vacuum
• Spot-on spotting
• A gentler approach with encapsulation

To learn more about carpet extraction solutions, read the full article here or visit: http://www.clarkeus.com/products/carpetextractors.aspx

Clean Track® Carpet Extractors Deliver Flexible Performance for Diverse Carpet Care Requirements

The Clean Track® S16 and L18 Carpet Extractors are the newest self-contained, portable extractor offerings from Clarke. With a compact, easily-maneuverable design and a 16- or 18-inch cleaning path, the new extractors are ideal for a variety of cleaning challenges, ranging from commercial office spaces and libraries to hotel rooms and healthcare facilities.

The Clean Track extractors ensure increased productivity with industry-leading performance capabilities. Single deflector spray jet technology provides even, consistent water and chemical coverage across the cleaning path, while an aero-dynamically designed vacuum shoe removes excess water for faster carpet dry times. By eliminating unwanted solution streaks and minimizing dry time, Clean Track allows quicker room turnover and occupancy. Laminar flow technology reduces turbulence and increases water pick-up, ensuring carpets are left with a cleaner, dryer and more appealing finish.

Equipped with a larger tank capacity, wider cleaning path and Multi-Position Flip Handle, the Clean Track L18 delivers superior productivity with dual method cleaning. This allows operators to clean in pull-back mode for edge or detailed extraction in small areas or use the L18 as a walk-behind extractor to easily extract hallways and large carpeted areas.

Read the full release here. 

The Evolution of Green Carpet Cleaning

This article was originally published by Housekeeping Solutions

Looking at how green cleaning established itself in the jan/san industry, it's easy to see that much of its evolution began with chemicals. The goal was to encourage chemical manufacturers to develop products that are both effective and compiled from ingredients that have a reduced impact on the environment. Facility managers now also want the ingredients to be more sustainable, which generally means being derived from renewable resources instead of being petroleum based.

Once manufacturing caught up with these end user demands, green cleaning soon expanded beyond chemicals to include equipment and cleaning processes. Vacuum cleaners with advanced air filtration systems, chemical-free cleaning systems, low-moisture floor machines, certain restroom cleaning equipment, and even chemical-dilution systems have all become key components of departmental green cleaning strategies.

Another part of the green cleaning evolution specifically targeted carpet cleaning, which became greener and healthier with the aid of new technologies and cleaning and maintenance strategies. One such strategy is to base carpet cleaning more on need than on specific cleaning frequency.

For example, even though many building managers want carpeting in executive offices cleaned every month, these areas are not heavily soiled. Not only is monthly cleaning unnecessary, it is also costly and can have adverse implications on the environment. These areas would benefit from a deep cleaning only two to three times a year.

Looking at frequency is just one way facility managers are greening their carpet care. Learn more about greening carpet cleaning and green equipment by reading the full article: http://www.cleanlink.com/hs/article/The-Evolution-of-Green-Carpet-Cleaning--14166

Clarke Focus® II MicroRider™ at the Minnesota Zoo

The Clarke Focus® II MicroRider™cleans surfaces at the Minnesota Zoo!

The small, easily maneuverable machine is designed to clean the areas that are inaccessible with larger riders—including those with limited access or tight corners. Available with a 26 or 28 inch deck, the Focus II MicroRider offers a wide cleaning path for maximum productivity in your larger cleaning areas.

Learn more at: http://www.clarkeus.com/products/autoscrubbers/focusiimicrorider.aspx

Self-Contained Portable Extractors Satisfy Flexible Cleaning Challenges

Get cleaner carpets and enhance facility appearance with the Clarke Clean Track® S16 and L18 self-contained portable extractors. A compact, easily-maneuverable design, combined with a 16 or 18 inch cleaning path, allows you to tackle cleaning challenges ranging from (commercial) office spaces, libraries, and hotel rooms, just to name a few. An optional hard floor kit extends the Clean Track’s application flexibility, quickly converting it to a hard surface cleaner for tiled and grouted floors. With simple tank filling, tools-free brush and vacuum shoe removal and intuitive controls, Clean Track extractors provide an unprecedented easy-to-use cleaning solution.

Watch the video below to see the Clean Track L18 in action!

New Slip Resistance Test Method

This article was originally published by CleanLink. 

Slip-and-fall injuries have long been a standing problem for manufacturers and consumers of ceramic tile. However, a new industry standard stands poised to change how tile is tested. The ANSI/NFSI B101.3-2012 wet Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) standard joins the 2009 release of the ANSI/NFSI B101.1 wet Static Coefficient of Friction standard and now provides manufacturers a comprehensive approach to quantifying the "Traction" levels of all types of ceramic, porcelain, and polished concrete materials.

In the past the slip resistance qualities of highly polished stone and porcelain materials could not be accurately measured. Russell Kendzior, Committee Secretary for the ANSI B101 standards committee states that: "wet SCOF testing simply wouldn't work on highly polished stone which the ANSI B101 committee had to go back to the drawing board to develop a better test method."

Read the full article at: http://www.cleanlink.com/news/article/New-Slip-Resistance-Test-Method-is-Published--14331

Interview With a Product: Clarke Focus II MicroRider Autoscrubber

Plant Services hosts a weekly column titled, "Interview With a Product", which is a Q&A on readers' favorite products uncensored and without their packaging.

Recently, their interviewee was the Clarke Focus II MicroRider Autoscrubber. Check out the interview below!

Clarke Focus II MicroRider Autoscrubber: Happy to be here.

Plant Services: What industry are you designed for?
N: I'm ideal for diverse applications, ranging from sizeable locations to areas that are inaccessible with larger riders. 

PS: So what exactly do you do?
N:  With my 26-inch disc scrub deck or 28-inch Boost scrub deck, I'm built to deliver flexible operation to meet diverse cleaning requirements.

PS: What sets you apart from the competition?
N: I feature a low-profile SafetyGlide deck, which is designed to automatically move in line with the path of my rear squeegee. My deck is engineered to ensure precise, straight edge cleaning without additional labor-intensive detail edge mopping.

PS: Interesting. What is your best feature?
N:  I feature an optional, onboard chemical mixing system that is made to automatically deliver the correct mixing solution to the scrub deck.

PS: Why should someone buy you?
N:  My compact size ensures easy maneuverability in areas with limited access or tight corners. My Safe-T-Steering and quiet performance also increase user safety and make daytime cleaning and cleaning of noise-sensitive areas viable.

PS: How would people at your company describe you?
N: Well, Jill Kohls says that I satisfy diverse cleaning challenges, while maximizing productivity. She is forever complementing me on my small, easily maneuverable design and wide cleaning path.

PS: Tell us more about Nilfisk-Advance.
N: Nilfisk-Advance is one of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of professional cleaning equipment. With global company headquarters in Denmark, the company has developed professional cleaning equipment for over 100 years. 

PS: And now it's time for a fun question. What irritates you?
N: Dirt.

Check out this interview, and others, at: www.plantservices.com

Battery Maintenance For Your Floor Machine

Battery maintenance is important for every floor machine, as batteries are crucial to the machine's performance. The Clarke® Battery Maintenance System (CBMS) is not a charger, but rather a performance device designed to help lead-acid batteries charge faster, provide maximum performance and power, and maintain runtime over a longer life.

The CBMS uses patented pulse technology to prevent the main cause of battery problems and failure–the build-up of lead-sulfate deposits on the battery plates. By removing these damaging deposits from the plates, your batteries can last up to three times longer than their usual lifespan.

The Clarke® Battery Maintenance System can be used on both Wet Lead Acid or AGM batteries.

Stay tuned for next week's post on different types of batteries and how they affect your floor machine!

Clarke Rider Autoscrubber® Features Superior Scrub System to Maximize Cleaning Performance

The Clarke Focus® II MicroRider™ is the newest compact rider addition to the company’s line of autoscrubbers®. Available with a 26 inch disc scrub deck or 28 inch BOOST® scrub deck, the Focus II MicroRider delivers flexible operation to meet diverse cleaning requirements.

The Focus II MicroRider models feature a low-profile SafetyGlide™ deck, which automatically moves in line with the path of the rear squeegee—resulting in 100 percent water pick-up and eliminating the need for side skirts. With a spring-loaded safety design, the deck ensures precise, straight edge cleaning without additional labor-intensive detail edge mopping. In addition to superior scrub capabilities, users can experience enhanced operation with the 28 inch BOOST model, which delivers simple floor finish removal capabilities without costly chemicals, slippery floors and undesirable odors. With BOOST technology, operators use up to 70 percent less solution, extend equipment pad life and increase battery runtime, all while reducing labor and cleaning costs.

Learn more at: http://www.clarkeus.com/products/autoscrubbers/focusiimicrorider.aspx

Advantages of a Chemical Mixing System

Last week's post discussed the Clarke chemical mixing system, which automatically mixes concentrated chemicals stored in an on-board container with clean water stored in the machines solution tank. The mixed solution is then delivered to the brush deck for scrubbing application. What are the advantages to this type of system?

• Eliminate concentrate usage from residual buildup in the solution tank due to unused solution at the end of the shift.
• No over usage from mistakes in computation or measuring. 
• Achieve the required consistent cleaning results without rework or penalty.
• Faster filling time over wall mount mixing units. 
• Minimize unnecessary trips back to the refilling area where the concentrate is located; just fill the solution tank where water is available. 

What is a Chemical Mixing System?

The Clarke chemical mixing system is available for use on all mid-size and large walkbehind autoscrubbers, and on the Focus Rider Scrubbers. The chemical mixing system is an automated system that automatically mixes concentrated chemicals stored in an on-board container with clean water stored in the machines solution tank, and delivers the mixed solution to the brush deck for scrubbing application.  How Does It Work?
Concentrated chemical is pumped from the Chemical container on command from the machines controller to a mixing point with clean water from the solution tank. A proportioning valve regulates the mixture by command from the controller.

What Does It Do?
Automatically mixes concentrated chemicals stored in an on-board container with clean water stored in the machines solution tank, and delivers the mixed solution to the brush deck for scrubbing application. Concentrate is mixed at an operator preset amount of zero to 3.5 ounces per gallon. The machine control maintains this proportion through the full range of the machines solution setting.

What Does the Operator Do?
The concentrate container holds enough chemical to last for several tanks of water. The operator should simply fill the concentrate tank with the appropriate chemical at the beginning of the shift, and check to see that the concentrate knob is set to the associated color setting for the required ounces per gallon proportioning. Then fill the solution tank with clean water. No measuring or math is required.

Stay tuned for next week's post on the advantages of the Chemical Mixing System!

BBB Recommends Tennant Discontinue Certain Claims for ec-H20

The National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus (BBB) has recommended that Tennant Company, a manufacturer of commercial floor cleaning equipment, discontinue certain claims promoting the superior performance of the company’s “ec-H20” technology. Nilfisk-Advance, Inc. challenged the following claims at issue before NAD:

• ec-H20 “electrically converts water into a superior cleaning solution.”
• “Independent studies show that ec-H20 outperforms [many] conventional chemicals.”
• “ec-H20 technology makes water perform like a powerful detergent.”
• “Tennant ec-H20 is proven to reduce environmental impact by up to 98%”

The advertiser asserted that it had permanently discontinued some of the claims at issue, prior to the challenge, including “Tennant’s ec-H20 is proven to reduce environmental impact by up to 98%” and “ec-H20 technology makes water perform like a powerful detergent,” measures NAD deemed necessary and proper.

Following its review of the evidence in the record, NAD determined that the remaining advertiser’s claims, “ec-H20 electrically converts water into a superior cleaning solution” and “ec-H20 outperforms [many] conventional chemicals” were broad superiority claims of floor cleaning performance that were not adequately supported by the evidence of comparative testing in the record. NAD recommended that these claims be discontinued.

NAD determined that although the advertiser established that ec-H20 technology can help customers reduce costs of chemicals, a message the advertiser is free to communicate, the evidence in the record was insufficient to support the advertiser’s quantified save “up to 100%” claim. NAD recommended that the claim be discontinued.

Tennant, in its advertiser’s statement, said the company “stands behind the advertising claims it has made about ec-H20 technology and does not agree with all of NAD’s recommendations. However, since the advertising claims at issue in this challenge have run their planned course, Tennant Company will consider the NAD’s recommendations in future advertising.”

Read the full press release at nadreview.org or download at http://www.narcpartners.org/DocView.aspx?DocumentID=9024&DocType=1

Tennant Abandons ec-H20 Advertising Claims

Nilfisk-Advance recently announced that ongoing efforts to expose Tennant’s misleading advertising claims regarding the performance of its ec-H20 technology have resulted in Tennant’s abandonment of those claims.

Upon launch of its ec-H20 technology, Tennant for years widely boasted on its website and in its marketing materials that “ec-H20 converts water into a powerful detergent.” Following the public disclosure of extensive third-party scientific testing that concluded ec-H20 performs no better than plain tap water, Tennant modified its advertising claim to “ec-H20 converts water into a superior cleaning solution.” Recently, Tennant has even abandoned that claim, and no longer asserts in its advertising that ec-H20 is a “powerful” or “superior” cleaning solution. Tennant has not produced any reliable and independent scientific evidence that proves that its ec-H20 technology cleans floor surfaces better than plain tap water, or as well as chemical detergents.

Industry critique of Tennant’s false claims first publicly surfaced when Nilfisk-Advance announced the results of independent testing November 2010, December 2010 and March 2011. Other industry players also questioned the veracity of Tennant’s claims, including industry leaders Diversey and Karcher. Karcher, a German company, has also brought legal action in Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom against Tennant alleging misleading advertising. Those proceedings are pending, and a decision in the German case is expected in late April 2012.

Read the full release here: http://www.clarkeus.com/aboutus/NewsAndEvents/News/TennantAbandonsec-H20.aspx

Stay tuned for more news about this topic!

The Benchmark for Professional Drum Sanding Equipment

The American 8 & 12 Drum Sanders represent the worldwide benchmark for professional drum sanding equipment. With rugged cast aluminum construction, a powerful, fully-enclosed motor and unique operating and drum leveling control, these drum sanders deliver the most aggressive and productive drum sander solution.

Learn more: http://www.americansanders.com/products/sanders/american812drumsanders.aspx

Dust Containment Vacuums

Clarke American Sanders Dust Containment Vacuums give you the ability to eliminate dust when refinishing hardwood floors. It’s a safe and greener way of controlling dust. Clarke American Sanders Vacuums give contractors the ability to work in compliance with EPA regulations regarding dust control. Easily refinish your own floor with fewer headaches associated with clean up.

Learn more about our Dust Containment Vacuums: http://www.americansanders.com/products/dustcontrolvacuums.aspx

The Dust Magnet(TM) in Action!

The Dust Magnet™ dry mopping system is the preferred way to remove dust and light dirt from hard surfaces at major hospitals, schools, nursing homes, health care and other facilities.

The standard Dust Magnet floor tool and shaft has single or multiple sheets that easily attach to the aluminum frame. The telescopic handle extends to 79 inches (201 cm) making it ideal for hard-to-reach and overhead areas. The entire unit weighs less than 2 lb (0.91 kg).

BOOST® Your Cleaning Benefits: Increase Efficiency and Battery Runtimes

With conventional disc floor scrubbers, as much as 30 percent of an operator’s time during a shift is spent emptying the recovery tank and refilling the solution tank. Since these disc scrubbers can use twice the amount of solution, more dump and fills are required during a cleaning shift.

With BOOST®, you’ll experience a 15 to 20 minute labor savings for each dump and refill that’s eliminated. The BOOST’s unique pad shape also allows for close-edge cleaning without overspray, virtually eliminating additional labor steps in cleaning operations.

The reduced water usage coupled with the reduced pad pressure enables the BOOST machine to utilize the motors and battery pack more efficiently, which translates into an increased run time of up to 25 percent compared to similar disc scrubbers. By using BOOST, you can reduce the cost of battery replacement and reduce the environmental impact of battery recycling.

BOOST® Your Cleaning Benefits: Reduce Floor Pad Consumption

Because BOOST® Technology cleans at orbits 10 times that of a conventional scrubber and attacks dirt from multiple directions, less pad pressure is required to achieve the desired cleaning result. With the combination of high RPM orbital action and reduced pad pressure, the life of floor pads is extended by up to 40 percent.

Just think about this. An average 40-store grocery store chain in the Midwest that spends $30,000 in floor pads a year will now save over $12,000 per year in pad costs, just by implementing Clarke’s BOOST® Technology cleaning method.

Next week we will discuss the last BOOST benefit in this blog post series.

BOOST® Your Cleaning Benefits: Chemical-Free Floor Finish Removal

Save the money and just use water! That’s all you need to remove floor finish. Just put on a surface preparation pad, fill the tank with clean water and reduce your speed. Using only water also helps to reduce the chance for slip and falls, as chemicals can cause slippery floors, keeping floors dry, safe and ready for recoating. BOOST® Technology is not only an ideal choice for removing floor finish, but is also great for evenly deep scrubbing floors. Chemical-free removal of floor finish with BOOST is ideal for diverse applications, including use in education and healthcare facilities when air quality and daytime cleaning is critical.

Stay tuned next week for the next post on cleaning benefits.

Pulse Modulated Solution Control

Using BOOST® Technology, cleaning solution is introduced in front of the rectangular scrubbing pad with Clarke’s patented Pulse Modulated Solution Control. The orbital action contains the cleaning solution in the pad and carries it for the full length of the pad. Compared to traditional disc scrubbers that sling water away from the pad, BOOST’s efficient use of the cleaning solution results in water and chemical savings of 50 to 70 percent. Using less water during cleaning ensures you are working productively rather than emptying and refilling the scrubber tanks.

BOOST® Technology: Orbital Scrubbing for Efficient Cleaning Results

For years, the most productive way to clean and maintain smooth tile or concrete floors was with a disc automatic scrubber. Depending on the size of the scrub path, there could be dual counter-rotating pads or brushes. Operating at 200-300 rpm, and requiring an increased pad pressure, acceptable results are achieved by a disc scrubber.

With BOOST Technology, a rectangular pad provides consistent contact across the cleaning path. Whether on a floor machine or autoscrubber, the BOOST pad provides more contact area of the pad on the floor surface, cleaning more uniformly and more consistently than disc scrubbing. The rectangular shape to the BOOST scrub head allows the operator to clean immediately along the edge of baseboards, as well in corners.

Next week we will take a closer look at Pulse Modulated Solution Control, the orbital action behind BOOST technology.

BOOST® Your Cleaning Performance

If you demand high levels of cleaning with the ultimate in green benefits, our BOOST® Technology is the solution you've been looking for.

BOOST cleaning technology provides easy floor finish removal without the use of chemicals. That's right, using only water, BOOST eliminates harsh chemicals, foul odors and slippery floors. Plus, no chemicals results in significant cost savings. Save up to 70 percent in solution, extend equipment pad life by 40%, get longer battery runtimes and cut labor time in half! Stay tuned next week for an in-depth look behind BOOST technology.

Watch BOOST Technology in action!