How Long Do Floor Scrubbers Last?

Nothing lasts forever, including the floor scrubber you rely on for keeping your spaces pristine. The last thing you want is for your machine to die on you when you need it most, leading to costly downtime and an unsanitary dissatisfying environment.

This is why we recommend businesses begin budgeting for a replacement well in advance of their current machine failing. So, how long do floor scrubbers last on average? 

A quality machine can typically serve you well for 5-10 years, but its actual lifespan will hinge on factors like usage intensity, maintenance regularity, and the operational environment.

We’ll help you gain a better sense of what you can reasonably expect from your machine here in this guide, along with the signs you may be nearing the end of your investment’s life, warranty considerations, and where to find the perfect replacement commercial floor scrubber - right here at SweepScrub.

Our selection features the top brands and models all backed by our industry-leading customer service. Reach out today and start the conversation so you don’t have to worry about interruptions to your cleaning schedule!

Factors Influencing Floor Scrubber Lifespan

The floor scrubber lifespan is influenced by an array of factors, such as the specific brand and model in question, the usage environment, cleaning frequency, maintenance, and more. Understanding the role these play in your equipment’s longevity is key to setting your expectations. 

Machine Quality and Brand Reputation

High-quality scrubbers crafted from durable materials and engineered with precision can withstand the rigors of frequent use, whereas cheaper models will cost less upfront but fail far sooner.

Brands with a reputation for reliability often provide robust machines that feature advanced technologies to enhance their lifespan. 

Investing in equipment from these reputable manufacturers means access to better build quality, efficient performance, and longer-lasting service. It’s tempting to save on costs given the high prices of professional floor scrubbers, but just remember that you get what you pay for!

Usage Intensity and Conditions

Machines operating daily in harsh environments, like industrial sites with heavy debris and aggressive contaminants, endure more wear and tear than those used less frequently in cleaner, less demanding settings. 

The type of flooring, presence of chemicals or abrasive materials, and even the ambient temperature and humidity can affect the machine's condition over time, necessitating a tailored approach to cleaning and maintenance based on usage intensity and conditions.

It’s also worth noting that operator usage plays a role here, too. If the operator is rough on the equipment, constantly bumping it into things or being careless in filling the tank and letting water/chemicals splash on internal components, the device will likely not reach its full lifespan potential.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance is an investment in prolonging the life of your floor scrubber. This includes routine cleaning of the machine, timely replacement of worn-out parts like brushes and squeegees, and adherence to the manufacturer's service schedule. 

Proper upkeep ensures that the scrubber operates at peak efficiency, prevents unexpected breakdowns, and identifies potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. 

Implementing a consistent maintenance program not only extends the machine's lifespan but also guarantees a consistently high level of cleaning performance. You may even consider investing in professional servicing to save yourself time and stress.

How Long Does a Floor Scrubber Last?

While the lifespan of a floor scrubber can vary based on the factors above, it’s reasonable to expect 5 to 10 years of reliable, efficient operation. 

A well-maintained, high-quality scrubber used in moderate conditions can often exceed this range, delivering effective cleaning for a decade or more. 

That being said, don’t be surprised if your equipment doesn’t even reach the low end of that range if you skimp on quality and fail to give your machine the care it deserves. 

How Long Do Floor Scrubber Batteries Last?

We get a lot of questions regarding battery longevity specifically. So, how long do floor scrubber batteries last?

Lead-acid batteries are the most common style in these machines, and they can last between 500 to 1,000 charge cycles. This equates to about 2 to 5 years of service depending on usage frequency. 

Gel batteries can last around 18-24 months, but they are also subject to premature failure as a result of operator error/neglect. We’ve seen them last less than a few months. 

Another type is the AGM style - or, absorbent glass mat technology. Like gel batteries, these will last anywhere from 18-24 months, but again, can fall short of expectations if you’re not properly trained in using/caring for this type of battery. We encourage you to learn more about these three types of floor-cleaning batteries in our blog.

But, there’s a new type of battery on the market that’s quickly begun making waves - Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) design. This style has led to cost savings of a million dollars for some operations converting their floor care equipment. These batteries are becoming commonplace for manufacturers like Tennant, Advance, and Tornado.

Regardless of battery type, remember the importance of proper charging practices, like avoiding complete depletion before recharging and maintaining the battery at recommended temperatures. This can significantly extend battery life.

 

Typical Lifespan for Other Components

There are quite a few other components that will need regular replacement over the life of your machine. These include:

• Brushes and Pads: These components come in direct contact with the floor, so they inevitably wear out faster than anything else on your machine. They typically need replacement every 6 months to a year depending on the cleaning frequency and floor type.
• Squeegees: These also wear out faster than other parts as they’re made to wipe the floor clean and dry. Replacement every 3 to 6 months is common, but the actual frequency will be influenced by material quality and your scrubber’s usage pattern.
• Motors: Floor scrubber motors can last the life of the machine with good maintenance and proper care. However, it’s not uncommon to see vac motors specifically fail within the first few months of ownership as a result of letting moisture and foam enter the vac motor and damaging it. Meanwhile, brush motors and drive motors tend to last through the warranty period - which can be anywhere from 3-5 years.
• Tanks: Tanks are generally covered from defects for 8-10 years. 
• Hoses: Hoses take quite the beating as you operate your machine, and it’s not uncommon to need to replace these every few years. Watch for leaks or blockages that could impair machine functionality.

All of these and more are available here at SweepScrub, as we maintain a comprehensive stock of replacement parts and accessories for all major brands and models, from the Carke MA10 12e upright floor scrubber to TomCat floor scrubber parts. 

Signs it May Be Time to Replace Your Machine

A modest timeline for the life of your floor scrubber is great, but you’re better off paying attention to some of the telltale signs that the end is near so that you can stay ahead of the curve. Here are clear indicators that your machine may need replacing sooner rather than later:

• Decreased Performance: If the scrubber is no longer cleaning as effectively as it once did, leaving dirt or residue behind, it might be a sign that its cleaning mechanisms are worn out or no longer functioning properly.
• Frequent Breakdowns: Regular malfunctions or the need for constant repairs can be a strong indicator that the scrubber is nearing the end of its useful life. Persistent issues often mean that even after fixing one part, others may soon fail. Keep note of how much time you spend on floor scrubber troubleshooting.
• Obsolete Parts: Difficulty in sourcing replacement parts or if the model has been discontinued, can make maintenance impractical and costly. In such cases, investing in a new machine becomes more feasible. If you can’t find the part here at SweepScrub, it probably means it’s no longer available anywhere.
• Inefficiency: Older scrubbers may use more water and cleaning solution, or require longer cleaning times to achieve the same level of cleanliness as newer models. This inefficiency can lead to increased operational costs.
• Advancements in Technology: If newer scrubber models offer significant improvements in technology, efficiency, or environmental impact, upgrading can be a wise decision to benefit from these advancements.

Our customers here at SweepScrub have found that they’re typically better off investing in a replacement once the repair costs exceed 40% of the purchase price of any given asset. 

Is Your Floor Scrubber Under Warranty?

The realization that you’re going to need to replace your scrubber can leave you stressed and overwhelmed - but before you start worrying about the financial side of things, consider if your equipment is under warranty.

Manufacturer warranties primarily cover manufacturing defects, ensuring that the equipment is free from production flaws at the time of purchase. For example, the Nilfisk Advance sc100 upright scrubber has a 3-year warranty on parts and labor with a 1 year travel warranty.

However, it's crucial to note that this warranty does not extend to issues arising from misuse, abuse, neglect, or normal wear and tear of wearable components like brushes, pads, and batteries. 

Always use your scrubber according to manufacturer recommendations and perform regular maintenance to maintain warranty eligibility. It’s also worth keeping detailed records of all maintenance activities and repairs, as these can be required to substantiate warranty claims.

Budgeting for Replacement

If your machine isn’t under warranty, you’ll need to begin planning for the eventual replacement of your floor scrubber to ensure continuous cleaning efficiency. 

Evaluating the cost of ongoing repairs and downtime against the investment in a new machine. As your scrubber ages, maintenance expenses and operational inefficiencies tend to increase, leading to higher overall costs. At a certain point, you’re better off biting the bullet and investing in a new machine.

Start by monitoring the performance and maintenance costs of your current scrubber. This data helps forecast when the machine will likely require replacement and allows for financial planning over time. Like we said earlier, when replacement costs exceed 40% of the cost of a new machine, you need to seriously consider starting fresh.

Set aside a portion of your cleaning budget each year for this purpose, considering the lifespan and usage of your equipment. Your budget should account for the total cost of ownership, which includes purchase price, maintenance expenses, and operational costs.

Investing in a high-quality, energy-efficient model may have a higher upfront cost but can lead to significant savings in the long run through reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance costs. As we like to say, you get what you pay for!

Find the Reliable, Efficient Replacement Floor Scrubber Your Operation Needs at SweepScrub!

When the time finally comes to replace your floor scrubber, trust SweepScrub to provide a durable, long-lasting, and hardworking machine. 

We’ve earned the trust of more than 3.5 million customers and counting for our commitment to curating a quality selection and backing up all our equipment and parts with unparalleled customer service. 

From budget-friendly commercial walk behind floor scrubbers to the most efficient industrial ride on floor scrubbers, we’ve got something for everyone. All our machines are sourced from the most well-respected brands in the industry - Nilfisk, Viper, Tennant, Clarke, Karcher, and Powr-Flite.

We are your one-stop-shop for all things cleaning, which means you can consider other types of equipment as well - like a commercial floor sweeper machine or an industrial floor sweeper scrubber, along with heavy-duty commercial vacuum cleaners, carpet extractors, and more.

So, get in touch today for guidance on navigating the replacement process. You can reach our team via phone, email, or live chat, and we’ll discuss your needs and help you weigh some of the options that align. 

Don’t let downtime get in the way of maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in your facility! 

Final Thoughts on How Long Floor Scrubbers Last

There you have it - everything you need to know about floor scrubbers' lifespan. So, how long does a floor scrubber last? It all depends on machine quality, usage, and maintenance. 

A well-crafted machine from a reputable brand can last 5 to 10 years, with diligent upkeep and proper operation extending this timeframe. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of parts are essential for sustained performance.

Our blog has more resources like using a floor scrubber on a gym floor, choosing the best industrial floor sweeper, how to fix a floor sweeper, and more. 

But when it’s time for a replacement, don’t forget that SweepScrub stocks a selection of reliable, efficient machines to meet your cleaning needs.

Whether you need a gym floor scrubber or something for your store, warehouse, manufacturing facility, or anything in between - the perfect replacement is waiting to be discovered at SweepScrub.