Equipment Basics Course
!
!
A!Member!of!KÄRCHER!North!America!
Vacuum Products
Vacuums are the most versatile product of all cleaning equipment. Every
location you encounter will need vacuum products. The style of vacuum required
depends on the application. Vacuuming should be done before any carpet
cleaning is attempted.
Fan or Impeller Vacuums
Fan or impeller vacuums are the most common style of vacuum.
Impeller vacuums use a fan attached to a high speed motor that creates
air flow. Similar to a propeller, these fans spin at high speed and create
suction. Impeller vacuums are not “true” vacuums, since no sealed
containment bin is present. These units pick up the soil and force it into a
containment bin. In most cases, the containment bin is a paper bag
housed inside of a cloth shake-out bag. In some instances, the
collection bin is a dust cup collector that does not require a bag. This
system is commonly referred to as a “dirty air system.” The dirt and debris
passing directly through the impeller will damage it over a period of time.
Impeller vacuums generally employ the use of a beater bar/brush combination.
Over time, the beater bar can damage carpet by breaking off fibers. The filtration
level on this style of vacuum is usually low because of the soil being forced
through the collection bag. These vacuums make up a large percentage of all
vacuums sold in the commercial market. The prices range from $130-$250
depending upon the make and model. These vacuums generally have a short
life expectancy and require repeated maintenance. Common brands include
Eureka Sanitaire, Oreck, Hoover, Panasonic and Royal. Windsor does not
manufacture or promote this style of vacuum.
Single Motor Uprights
Single motor uprights use an electric motor that creates a vacuum and
propels the brush roller. While only employing a single motor like an
impeller style vacuum, these vacuums are considered “clean air
systems” based on the soil never traveling through the vacuum motor.
The air movement created is pulled through the containment bin or
bag housing where the soil is collected in a disposable bag. The air
then exits the compartment through a filter system. There are many
differentiation points on these units--some have automatic adjustments, lights
that identify a full bag or clogs and many other features you will not find on the
fan-style vacuum. Many of these units provide indoor air quality (IAQ) features
with 99.6% filtration at .3-microns. These units will take a little more sales skill,
but studies have shown that over 50% of the fan-style purchasers would buy this
type unit over the existing fan model given the opportunity and the proper value
explanation. The pricing varies significantly with features and benefits and range
