Having a vacuum in your supply closet is essential since it helps maintain healthier surroundings and cleaner carpets. In actuality, 80–90% of the buildup of dry soil is removed by routine vacuuming. When choosing a new vacuum for your facility, you could feel overwhelmed by the range of manufacturers and types that seem to be available on the market.
And there are still concerns about how and when to vacuum once the machine has been acquired. Choosing the appropriate tools and adhering to recommended practices are essential to preserve the look of carpet and your investment in it.
Selecting the Right Equipment
One size does not fit all when it comes to vacuums. Although many facilities employ upright vacuums, there are alternative designs. These include the employee-worn backpack vacuums, the canister vacuums that gather dirt and debris in a rolling tub that attaches to a hose, and the ride-on vacuums, which are perfect for establishments with large amounts of carpeted space.
It might be challenging to determine whether the vacuum you choose has the proper features, is appropriate for the carpet in your building, and will be simple and ergonomic for staff to use given the wide variety of vacuums available and the annual release of new models.
When purchasing a new vacuum, make sure it has the following characteristics to make things easier.
Certification
Based on test findings, the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) offers Bronze, Silver, and Gold ratings for vacuums under its Seal of Approval program. Both all-purpose and low pile carpet vacuums are put through testing by the CRI. To ensure that your vacuum model satisfies stringent requirements for soil removal, particulate containment, and appearance retention, look for the certification emblem. A list of authorized vacuum cleaners is kept up to date on the CRI website to facilitate the purchasing procedure.
Compatibility
Selecting equipment that is appropriate for your carpet, your space, and your staff is crucial. Think about the fiber type, density, and carpet profile. Examine the dimensions of your carpeted areas and any obstructions that would make operating ride-on or wide-area equipment challenging. Take into account your storage area as well. A smaller model might be more appealing to you than one that takes up more room. Lastly, consider the requirements of the individuals who will be using the vacuums and get their input.
Soil removal and dust containment capabilities
Modern vacuums come with a ton of functions to lure customers in. Ultimately, though, the vacuum needs to be able to capture and remove dust and debris with efficiency. Ergonomic features and noise reduction are insufficient to compensate for subpar performance. To be sure a vacuum can sufficiently penetrate carpet fibers and eliminate impurities, look for one with HEPA filtration, disposable bags, high airflow, durability, and professional performance.
Your carpet manufacturer could also be able to offer suggestions for vacuum types, features, and models that work well with your carpeting if you’d want extra assistance throughout the buying process. Giving this phase careful thought guarantees that you’ll have better-performing vacuums in your collection to help preserve carpet and maintain its best appearance.
Best Practices for Vacuuming
Appropriate vacuuming techniques guarantee efficient carpet maintenance, save time, and lower labor expenses. Ensure that staff members in charge of vacuuming follow these recommended procedures:
- Establish vacuuming schedules according to traffic patterns, weather conditions and facility use. Certain areas like entryways may need daily vacuuming while less-trafficked areas can be vacuumed a few times per week to save time without sacrificing image.
- During vacuuming, roller brushes and non-electrical suction wands with brush strips open tufts, agitate and loosen soil. Use a slow pass to allow time for additional airflow to remove embedded soil.
- Remember to combine forward and backward passes to make sure you capture soil from every angle.
- You may be inclined to completely fill the disposable vacuum bag, but it actually needs replacing when it is half full. When a vacuum bag is over half full, 80% of efficiency is lost.
- Vacuums are an investment and proper maintenance helps them last longer. Periodically check brushes and belts for wear and replace these as needed.
A Process for Cleaner Carpet
Vacuuming your carpet every day, or at least several times a week, helps keep it protected. Carpet usually has dirt trapped in its fibers or even on the surface that can be vacuumed away, even if it doesn’t look dirty to the unaided eye. By adhering to the aforementioned best practices for vacuum selection, maintenance, and training, you may optimize soil removal and prolong the machine’s lifespan.