Should You Purchase a Heated or Non-Heated Carpet Extractor?
There are several options when considering a carpet extractor, and they all come with varying degrees of bells and whistles. The capacity of a machine to use heat is among the most important factors to consider. But, it turns out, the decision might not be that hard to make. Read on as we discuss why heated machines tend to prove superior to their non-heated counterparts.
The Go-To Machine for Professionals
Non-heated carpet extractors do a decent job for specific areas, particularly if the job is light-duty and involves low-traffic flooring that’s not soiled. However, most professional carpet cleaners use heated machines because heat helps break down oils and makes carpet detergent more effective. Heat is also necessary when removing stains.
What Science Says
Heat being more conducive to cleaning up messes comes as no surprise; there’s a reason we soak our dirty dishes in steaming H2O and run muddy clothes on the hot-water cycle. While we know that heat works, science tells us why.
Overall, heat offers several benefits, including:
- Molecules that move faster: When water becomes heated, the energy in its molecules increases, causing faster-moving reactions. More energy and speed make removing debris from carpet fibers (even long-settled debris) easier.
- Less surface tension: Hot water has a lower surface tension than cold water. This increases its ability to penetrate surfaces and lift stains, dirt, and grime.
- More solubility: Hot water is more expansive than cold water; more space means an increased ability to dissolve materials.
- The ability to fight bacteria and viruses: Hot water is far superior to cold water when fighting bacteria and viruses (as it’s not the water that neutralizes the exposure but the heat). This is even more important in a post-COVID era.
The Bottom Line
A non-heated carpet extractor might suffice for easy, breezy jobs and minimal housekeeping tasks. However, a heated machine is far superior for more intense jobs, such as cleaning high-traffic areas or carpets regularly used by pets, children, office staff, or customers. It will do a more effective job and keep your carpets cleaner for longer, freeing you up to do anything other than chores.
Mosquito offers innovative backpack vacuums, spotters, and extractors designed to be efficient, ergonomic, powerful, and lightweight. We strive to increase your workplace productivity, keep you safe, and keep your spaces clean while delivering a low cost of ownership. Contact us to learn more.
