Filling the vacuum efficiently
February 1st 2009 Within large commercial premises, speed and efficiency are key requirements for
cleaning. Justin Binks, director of SEBO, explains how a reliable, quality vacuum
cleaner can make a huge difference to both performance and lifecycle costs
Vacuum cleaners have evolved with technology over the years
but basically, the choice lies between cylinder and upright
models.When cleaning large areas of space, the upright brings
significant advantages.Often, commercial flooring is a combination
of both hard and textile floor coverings.Upright cleaners with strong
suction and driven brushes are the most effective for carpets as they
groom and lift the pile, removing dirt effectively. By comparison,
cylinders can flatten the pile which can lead to dust and allergy
accumulation.
Technological advances in upright design have led to many new
features being incorporated to assist the operators and to make
cleaning easier. For example, SEBO has designed a rotating neck on
its Dart model for greater flexibility and this high manoeuvrability
around office environments is a bonus for handling.
Safety first
Current health and safety requirements and legislation on handling
and lifting equipment at work have had a distinct impact upon
design. Lightweight, ergonomic design is essential to ensure that the
operator is subject to minimum risk when working.All SEBO
commercial models are designed with low pushing weight for
fatigue free operation and equipped with comfortable handle grips
to minimise the risk of strains.Manufacturers are constantly trying to
devise solutions to reduce the amount of cabling required but
although some battery powered models have been launched, Sebo
believes they do not offer the same sustained power of mains
uprights, and can lead to performance being compromised.
The concern over health and safety in public areas has been
heightened by reports of
super bugs, such as MSRA
in hospitals and
healthcare
establishments, where
there is increased
demand for more
hygienic vacuum cleaners.
However, even the most
powerful vacuum cleaner
is not effective if it cannot
keep the dust and
allergen particles inside.
This is a function of the
quality of the filtration
system and the
airtightness of its
construction. SEBO has
developed a three-layer
bag system that seals in
dust and dirt as well as a
filtration system that can
be easily upgraded to
accommodate the levels
required for hospital and
healthcare environments.
Electrostatic filtration uses statically charged micro-fibres that
attract dust particles from the air stream, these then bond onto the
fibres.This enables the filter material to have a relatively open texture
which allows a very good air flow for better suction performance, yet
it also gives highly effective filtration.
Noise at work is another issue that has to be taken into
consideration. In situations where residents are in situ, such as
nursing homes or hospitals, the noise caused by some vacuum
cleaners can be both distressing and disturbing. By specifying a
model that has very low noise such as the SEBO models, disruption is
kept to a minimum.
Within the commercial markets, clients want value, reliability,
durability and performance. Due to tighter legislation on health and
safety, vacuum cleaners need to be user friendly and lightweight, to
specify the cheapest model, can be a false economy.
Reliability is vital a dedicated commercial model should be used
such as the SEBO Dart and BS36/46 range, which is designed
specifically for heavy duty applications.Their performance is
guaranteed by the powerful suction and brush motors and an
electronic brush height guidance system which also prolongs brush
life.
By using quality, long lasting equipment, the cleaning process can
be facilitated without compromising on efficiency.As far as lifecycle is
concerned, it is well worth the initial investment in a reputable,well
established branded model which will have a long life expectancy
and which will not require constant
maintenance and repair. More articles from Sebo (UK) Ltd: | 
