Truckmount News Blog RSS

Hot Water Extraction vs. Encapsulation Cleaning: What’s the Best Way to Clean Carpets? When cleaning contractors assess a new job, they consider carpet condition, stains, odors, and embedded debris. Two main methods are used: hot water extraction (HWE), commonly called steam cleaning and low-moisture encapsulation (Encap) cleaning. Each has its strengths and ideal applications. Hot Water Extraction (Steam Cleaning) How it Works: Involves spraying hot water mixed with detergent onto carpet. Water and dirt are extracted using a truck-mounted or portable machine. Penetrates deep into carpet fibers, reaching the pile layer. Pros: Highly effective for deep cleaning, stains, and pet...

How to prime a pump on a portable extractor... especially when it’s new or has run out of water, which can cause an air lock in the pump or line. Key Points: Why Priming is Needed: Air bubbles in the pump or line can prevent water flow. This often happens when the machine is brand new or runs dry during use. Method 1 – Using a Quick Connect: Insert a male quick connect into the machine’s outlet. Turn on the pump; water should flow out to remove air. Use a bucket to catch water if the outlet is near the floor....

How to Properly Clean Portable Machines Once the Job is Done  It is very important to properly clean and maintain machines after use, particularly focusing on cleaning out the waste tank and waste gate to ensure they're ready for the next job and last longer. Key Tips and Instructions Cleaning Portable Machine: Use Two Buckets: Blue for fresh water, red for dirty water. This avoids transferring sand and grit into your fresh water tank, which can damage filters and pumps. Clean the Wastegate: The wastegate is like a guillotine valve that can collect sand and debris. Rinse it thoroughly to...

Are Professional Carpet Cleaners Worth It? (And What You Need to Become One) If you’ve ever considered cleaning your own carpets versus hiring a pro—or starting your own carpet cleaning business—you’re not alone. With more people paying attention to indoor air quality and home hygiene, demand for deep carpet cleaning is on the rise. But are professional carpet cleaners really worth the money? What equipment do they use, and how do they get results that homeowners often can’t replicate with a rental unit from the grocery store? Let’s break it all down—and if you’re thinking of starting a business, we’ll...

Thinking About Starting a Carpet Cleaning Business? Here’s What You Need to Know If you’ve ever thought about getting into the carpet cleaning business, you’re not alone. It’s a hands-on trade with relatively low startup costs, solid profit margins, and strong demand especially in places where dust, traffic, and pets create a constant need for clean carpets. But what do you actually need to get started? Do you need a license or certification? And is it really a profitable business? Let’s break it down. Do You Need a License to Have a Carpet Cleaning Business? In most states, you don’t...