September 6, 2024 SweepScrub Admin

Floor Sweeper Maintenance

Your floor sweeper machine saves you a ton of time keeping your facility impeccably clean so you can uphold high standards for cleanliness without cutting into productivity.

But with all the work you put your machine through, it’s important to carve out time to give it a little TLC every so often. Otherwise, the efficiency and effectiveness of your cleaning process could start to slip. That’s why we created this floor sweeper maintenance guide.

Learn all about what goes into maintaining these floor sweeping machines, from changing out pads to battery care, servicing the motor, and more.

We don’t just have the expert insight you need to take care of your machine either - you can count on us for any replacement parts you need along the way. SweepScrub is your one-stop shop for all your commercial cleaning needs - shop by machine below:

The Importance of Floor Sweeper Maintenance

We know what you’re thinking…the whole reason you invested in a floor sweeper machine was to save time! But, hear us out. While it sounds like another hassle, allocating resources towards floor sweeper maintenance will pay off in the long run.

Proper maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, which can cause costly downtime and disrupt your cleaning schedule. It also helps you catch potential problems early before they have a chance to become major issues.

It’s also an investment in longevity. You paid a lot of money for this machine, so it’s worth putting in a bit of work to keep it running smoothly for as long as possible.

Well-maintained machines not only perform better but also operate more efficiently, using less energy and reducing the wear on key components. This translates into lower operating costs and fewer repairs over time.

On the other hand, a poorly maintained machine can pose risks to operators and bystanders, whether through malfunctioning parts or reduced effectiveness in cleaning, which could leave hazardous debris on the floor.

All things considered, you need to maintain your machine - but what all goes into this? How often is maintenance necessary? Don’t worry, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your machine in tip-top shape below.

Step-by-Step Guide to Floor Sweeper Maintenance

The truth is, floor sweeper maintenance doesn’t have to be a complex, time-consuming process. You can streamline this aspect of ownership to maintain peak productivity in your operation.

We’ve broken this guide down into daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks to simplify things. But, keep in mind that you should always adhere to the specific guidelines laid out in your owner’s manual, as there will be nuances in the requirements for different machines.

Daily Inspection and Cleaning

There are certain things you should do every time you use your machine to provide the best cleaning experience, including:

Check the Brushes: Inspect the main and side brushes for wear and tear. Replace them if bristles are worn down or uneven. Clean any debris or string entanglements that could hinder performance.
Empty the Hopper: This should be done after each use to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating, which could cause blockages that reduce machine efficiency.
Inspect the Squeegee Blades: Make sure they’re clean and free from cracks or tears. Damaged blades can leave water streaks on the floor, compromising cleaning results.
Clean the Filters: Dust and debris can clog the filters, reducing airflow and suction power. Clean or replace the filters as needed to maintain optimal suction.

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

If you use your machine every day, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of performing these inspections and maintenance tasks on a weekly basis:

Inspect the Drive System: Check belts and chains for signs of wear, tension, and proper alignment. Replace any components that show signs of fraying or slackness to prevent breakdowns during operation.
Check Battery Health (for battery-operated sweepers): Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Ensure the battery is holding a charge correctly, and if it’s not, consider testing and possibly replacing the battery. We have a guide on how long can a floor sweeper battery last if you’re not sure.
Lubricate Moving Parts: This includes bearings, chains, and joints. Doing this reduces friction, thereby preventing wear and extending the lifespan of these components.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

We encourage you to get in the habit of conducting a more fulcrum inspection at the start or end of every month. Here’s what it should entail:

Examine the Motor: Look for any signs of overheating or unusual noises. Keep it free from dust and debris, which can cause overheating and reduce the motor’s lifespan.
Check the Vacuum System: Make sure the vacuum is functioning correctly and that there are no blockages in the suction hose or fan housing. Clear any obstructions to maintain proper suction.
Assess the Electrical System: Check all wiring and connections for signs of wear, loose connections, or corrosion. Replace any damaged wires or connectors to prevent electrical failures.

Quarterly Deep Cleaning and Inspection

Four times a year we recommend you give your sweeper a thorough deep cleaning and inspection. This involves:

Deep Clean the Machine: This includes the underside, wheels, and all accessible components. Remove any built-up grime that could affect performance.
Inspect and Replace Worn Parts: While you may be inspecting these daily or weekly already, take a look at the brushes, squeegees, filters, and belts and replace any components that show significant wear and tear.
Test All Functions: Test all machine functions, including the drive system, vacuum, and sweeping mechanisms to verify everything is operating smoothly and efficiently.

Long-Term Maintenance Considerations

That’s most of what goes into floor sweeper maintenance. But in general, there are a few more long-term maintenance considerations to keep in mind.

For example, battery-operated sweepers need a bit of extra care to preserve battery life and function. Regularly check the water levels in lead-acid batteries and refill with distilled water as necessary. Avoid overcharging by using an automatic charger, and store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.

The tires can take on quite a bit of wear and tear as well, so make sure you’re keeping them inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Proper tire maintenance improves the machine's maneuverability and reduces wear on the drive system.

Finally, it’s essential that you store the machine properly when not in use - ideally, in a clean, dry environment. Don’t store your machine in extreme temperatures or where it could be exposed to moisture, as these conditions can damage sensitive components.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

No matter the specific maintenance routine you adhere to, documentation is incredibly important. Keep a detailed maintenance log, recording all inspections, cleanings, and repairs to track the machine’s condition over time and assist in scheduling regular maintenance tasks.

As we said from the start, always follow the specific maintenance instructions and recommended service intervals per your manufacturer’s suggestions.

This guide here is just that - a guide. Take it with a grain of salt knowing that there will be nuances from machine to machine. That being said, you can now feel confident giving your machine the care it deserves!

Find All the Replacement Parts You Need at SweepScrub!

There you have it, all the different aspects of floor sweeper maintenance. We hope this guide helps you feel clear and confident in how to take care of your machine to keep it performing its best for as long as possible.

If you find yourself looking for replacement parts for your machine - be it new pads or brushes, a fresh battery, or anything in between - remember that SweepScrub has you covered.

That’s right, we’re not just the #1 industrial floor sweeper machine provider. We stock thousands of parts for all the different machines from the most sought-after manufacturers on the market. These are OEM parts so you don’t have to stress about compatibility.

Plus, we have expert customer service on standby if you have questions about maintenance, need help finding a specific part, or are looking for guidance on navigating a replacement. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to discuss the next steps.

Of course, you can upgrade your machine here if yours is past its prime. Whether you’re looking for the best walk-behind floor sweeper or the best industrial floor sweeper that you can ride on, we’ve got the most popular models from the most trusted brands. Browse popular categories below:

So, what are you waiting for? Elevate your commercial cleaning routine with the most efficient, powerful machines, or get the spare parts and accessories you need to make the most of your current setup. Either way, you can count on SweepScrub.

Final Thoughts on Floor Sweeper Maintenance

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of working at breakneck speed through your cleaning tasks with a floor sweeper doing all the heavy lifting. But to enjoy the benefits it has to offer, you need to prioritize a bit of care every so often.

Regular floor sweeper machine maintenance doesn’t just help you uphold cleaning efficiency and effectiveness, though. It’s key to prolonging the life of your equipment and making the most of your investment.

While we mainly talked about floor sweeper maintenance, it’s also important to remember that properly using your machine will go a long way in keeping it working its best for years to come. Make sure you’re not inadvertently causing harm to your machine in your day-to-day operations.

Our blog has more resources on how long floor scrubbers last, how to change pads on floor scrubber machine, floor scrubber troubleshooting, floor sweeper repair, sweeper vs vacuum, and more. We also have guides on specific cleaning tasks:

This is your one-stop shop for all things cleaning, from helpful tips to the best equipment and supplies on the market. So, find out firsthand what makes us the most trusted choice today by sourcing replacement parts or upgrading your cleaning process with a new machine!

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