The Five-Minute Check That Keeps Your Scrubber Running

Look at the Brush or Pad

Flip it over. Take a real look. What you see tells you everything.

▸ Signs of Trouble

Missing bristles, bent or worn bristles, pads worn smooth. Any of these mean the brush or pad isn't doing its job—and is probably working the machine harder than it should.

▸ What to Do

Replace or flip before you start. Five minutes now versus an hour of bad cleaning later.

Check the Squeegee

The squeegee is what picks up the dirty water. If it's damaged, you're leaving puddles everywhere.

▸ What to Look For

Cracks, chips, or tears in the rubber blade. Is it still making full contact with the floor? Lift it up and look underneath.

▸ The Simple Test

Run your finger along the blade edge. It should feel smooth and even. Any catch or gap means trouble.

Listen When You Start It Up

New noise is trying to tell you something. Grinding, squealing, clicking—none of these are good.

▸ What Grinding Usually Means

Debris caught somewhere it shouldn't be. Brush head is hitting something. Bearing problem starting.

▸ The Rule

If it sounds different than yesterday, stop. Check it. Then run it.

Verify Fluid Levels

Running a machine with low solution or a full recovery tank is a rookie move. Check both.

▸ Solution Tank

Make sure it's filled with the correct solution-to-water ratio. Too much chemical can damage seals and coatings.

▸ Recovery Tank

Should be empty before you start. If it's not, dump it and rinse it out.