The manual scrub wand is a good cleaning tool for cleaning lightly soiled carpet. When cleaning more heavily soiled carpet, the wand becomes a ‘beast of burden.’ Cleaning results depend upon the strength, stamina, and technique of the person working the wand. Cleaning heavily soiled carpets with a scrub wand is ‘hard labor.’ The repetitive motion of scrubbing back and forth is extremely strenuous and fatiguing. An individual can not scrub long enough to effectively clean your carpets.
First and foremost the Rotovac is an electric power scrubbing tool. Comparing the Rotovac to a wand is like comparing a skill saw to a hand saw. We have converted a back and forth manual task to a much easier and more efficient rotary mechanized operation. Which makes more cleaning passes per minute than is possible with a manual scrub wand. In addition, the cleaning passes are from all directions rather than just back and forth. This is what produces better cleaning results for you.
Does the Rotovac work on all types of carpet?
The Rotovac has a carpet pile height adjustment wheel which allows it to work on all installed over pad carpet, and most commercial glue downs.
What is the dry time of the Rotovac compared to a wand?
The Rotovac on average leaves the carpet about 20% drier when compared to a manual scrub wand under similar conditions.
Why should I have my carpets cleaned?
There are many reasons to have your carpet and upholstery cleaned:
- Health– Carpeting and fabrics not cleaned and properly maintained have the potential to cause a variety of health problems inside the home or work place.
- Life of your carpet- can be greatly extended by simple routine professional cleaning.
- Appearance- maintain the original look and luster of your carpet with regularly scheduled cleanings.
How often should I have my furniture cleaned?
The EPA currently has issued no guidelines on the recommended cleaning frequency for upholstery. Until such a guideline has been issued, our company recommends that you have your upholstery cleaned every other time your carpet is cleaned. Example: if your carpets get cleaned every six months, your upholstery should be cleaned once a year.
Should I vacuum before the carpet cleaner arrives?
Yes, vacuuming is essential to the longevity of your carpet. You should vacuum your carpet as often as possible.
Do you move furniture?
When necessary we will move and replace small furniture in its original position.
*We will not move musical instruments, grandfather clocks, most beds, full china hutches, heavy dressers, computers/electrical, full bookshelves, entertainment centers, pool tables…our technicians reserve the right not to move any piece of furniture or household object that they do not feel comfortable with.
Should I move anything?
Yes, you should remove from the areas being cleaned, all nick knack and breakables.
How long will it take for my carpet or furniture to dry?
Our dry times typically range from 8-10 hours for carpet (furniture is usually much less). Dry times can be affected by many factors including weather, humidity, airflow and the amount of dirt/stains in the carpet or furniture (more dirt/stains, more time steam cleaning an area). We can provide you and your family with shoe covers, so you can walk on the carpet immediately.
How long before I can walk on my carpet?
You can walk on your carpet immediately with the shoe covers we provide if desired, but it is recommended that you limit traffic until completely dry.
Are the products you use safe?
Yes, our cleaning products are safe for your family and pets.
Are your technicians experienced?
Yes, our technicians have been working with us & our clients for quite awhile and stay current on the latest cleaning techniques.
Will your services help my allergies?
Yes, having your carpet and furniture cleaned removes pollutants and makes for a more friendly breathing environment.
Will you remove all my stains?
Let me start by defining the difference between a spot and a stain: a spot is any foreign material (soil, liquid, etc.) that is removable by standard cleaning methods.(The foreign material is on or around the carpet fiber) A stain is foreign material (soil, liquid, etc.) on carpet that is not usually removable by standard cleaning methods. (The foreign material has penetrated ‘soaked into’ fiber and has changed or damaged the fiber itself) Some stains may be very difficult or impossible to remove.
Does cleaning your carpet make it wear out faster?
No, actually dirt acts as an abrasive when trapped in your carpet or fabrics and should be removed to reduce wear.
Does your process restore the original feel of my carpet?
Yes, our process leaves your carpet fresh, clean, residue free and soft to the touch.
Should I have a fabric protector applied after cleaning?
Yes, most carpet manufacturers recommend that you reapply protector after professional cleaning to restore the original stain resistance. Some manufacturers even require it as part of the warranty on the carpet.
My carpet is really old, should I replace it?
With the cost of replacing carpet being as expensive as it is today, it is always best to try having the carpet professionally cleaned first. It is far less costly and may make a world of difference.
Which provides better indoor air quality: hardwood, or carpet?
Carpet actually acts like a ‘filter’ trapping pollutants which are then removed by professional carpet cleaning. As long as a regular cleaning schedule is maintained, carpet provides much better indoor air quality than hardwood.
Ellen Fagan
Owner- Steam Clean My Carpet & Tile