So, in this segment I am going to discuss the different kinds of cleaning equipment and why it is so important to have a grasp on the facts. The basics of all cleaning equipment include three functions, they are:

1. Sweeper
2. Scrubber
3. Sweeper/Scrubber

These functions are the same regardless of the manufacturer. In other words, the Tennant Company makes one of those three function machines just as Advance, Power Boss or American Lincoln. So, a Tennant Model 6500 sweeper would be similar in functions to the Power Boss Model SW82. An American Lincoln Model 7760 sweeper/scrubber has a similar function as a Tennant Model 8410.

The sweeper has been around for probably 90 years. The scruber started showing up in the 1960’s with the American Lincoln Model 772 and in the 1970’s with the Tennant Model 520, 550 and 600. It was not until Power Boss started in business in 1985 that the first true sweeper/scrubber was designed.

With what I have said, up to this point, let’s discuss what brushes you need for each function:

1. The Sweeper                                 1 Main Broom & 1 Side Broom

2. The Scrubber                                 2 Main Brooms OR 3-4 Rotary Brushes

3. The Sweeper/Scrubber                 1 Main Broom & 1 Side Broom & 3-4 Rotary Brushes

Of course, the above table are for riding machines. For the walk-behind machines this is what you will need:

1. The Sweeper                                 1 Main Broom & 1 Side Broom

2. The Scrubber                                 2 Main Brooms or 2 Rotary Brushes

3. The Sweeper/Scrubber Not Available

Those two tables will cover 98% of all cleaning equipment. However, there is always an exception. A good example is the Tennant Model 510E has an optional pre-sweep. This machine is designed primarily as a scrubber which has 2-20" or 3-16" rotary brushes with 1 Main and 1 Side. The pre-sweep was to pick up paper cups, cigarette butts and that’s about it.

Let’s review: If I have a rider sweeper/scrubber what brushes will I need to Order? That’s right. Now, all you need to know is what material you want your brushes to be. The different brush materials and their function requires another segment.

Michael R. Creamer