Are you troubled by how to make your floor cleaner? Don't worry! Choosing the correct floor sweeping machine can help you maintain a clean, safe, and efficient workspace.
Ride-on and walk-on floor sweepers are the most common types. Each type has unique advantages. There are so many models for you, but it is not difficult for you to choose the suitable ones.
In this guide, we will compare the two types and then help you pick a suitable sweeper machine according to your real requirements.
What is a Ride-on Floor Sweeper?
It's a sweeper that allows operators to ride on while sweeping a large area. The machine is operated by using a combination of main brooms and side brushes to gather dust, dirt, and debris into a large internal hopper.
Built for quickly covering large areas quickly and efficiently, these machines feature forward/reverse control, automated water spray, an easy-empty dustbin, and pneumatically controlled brushes. Great for indoor and outdoor use.
Pros:
Deep Cleaning Ability: Higher brushes pressure handle tough dirt and heavy debris for thorough cleaning.
High Efficiency: Covers large areas rapidly, significantly reducing cleaning time.
Reduced operator fatigue: ergonomic design minimizes physical strain during long work.
High Debris Capacity: A larger recovery tank and solution allow longer cleaning and fewer interruptions.
Cons:
Higher Initial Cost: Typically, it is more expensive to purchase compared to smaller units.
Space Requirements: A Larger size needs wider aisles and more storage space.
Maintenance Costs: The complexity and size have increased the cost of maintenance parts and repairs.
Less Maneuverable: Not ideal for tight or crowded spaces with many obstacles.
Training required: More formal training ensures safe and effective use.
Application:
Warehouses, airports, hospitals, distribution centers, and large retail spaces.
What is a Walk-Behind Floor Sweeper?
A walk-behind floor sweeper is a compact, manual-guided cleaning machine operated by a worker. It is designed to clean floors by sweeping up dust, dirt, and debris through rotating brushes and suction mechanisms.
Their design focuses on maneuverability and ease of use. It is a popular choice for environments with many obstacles or limited space.
Pros:
Excellent Maneuverability: Compact size and small turning radius make them work well in narrow aisles and crowded areas.
Lower Initial Cost: Generally, it is more affordable to buy than ride-on sweepers.
Less Storage Space: Smaller size requires less space for storage.
Ease of Use: Simple controls and ergonomic design make them straightforward to operate with minimal training.
Enhanced Operator Visibility: Because the operator walks behind, there is a clear view of the cleaning path, improving safety and precision.
Cons:
Lower Cleaning Productivity: They cover less area per hour than ride-on models, which can increase cleaning time in large facilities.
Operator Fatigue: The operator must walk and guide the machine, which can lead to fatigue during long use.
Smaller Debris Capacity: Hoppers fill up faster, requiring more frequent emptying.
Slower Speed: Cleaning speed is controlled by walking pace, so it can be slower in extensive open spaces than a ride-on sweeper.
Application:
Retail stores, workshops, schools, and small warehouses.
Ride-On vs. Walk-Behind Sweepers: Key comparison
Here is a detailed comparison of Ride-On vs. Walk-Behind Floor Sweepers from multiple important perspectives.
Cleaning Efficiency and Productivity
Ride-On sweepers: Due to wider cleaning paths and higher speeds, these machines can cover large floor areas and are much faster than walk-on sweepers. Their productivity gains around 60-70% compared to walk-behind units, making them ideal for extensive facilities like warehouses, airports, or large retail stores.
Such as the S2000S Industrial ride-on floor sweeper machine, its sweeping width achieves 2050mm, and its maximum speed is 10km/h. The cleaning efficiency is 20000 m²/h. It is dozens of times higher than manual labor. So the sweeper machine is very suitable for cleaning large areas.
Walk-Behind Sweepers: It is very efficient for small and narrow spaces. But if the spaces are expensive, over 50,000 square feet, and the cleaning result is not good.
Operator Comfort and Fatigue
Ride-On Sweepers: When operating the ride-on floor sweeper machine, the worker can sit in the machine to work. Thus, this can reduce operator fatigue, especially in long working conditions and large areas.
Like the 1250 Ride-On Floor Sweeper, it is equipped with a comfortable seat. The machine is suitable for use in occasions ranging from 5000 to 20000 square meters. When you use it to work on this area, the comfortable seat can make you work easily and reduce fatigue.
Walk-Behind Sweeper: It requires the operator to walk behind and push the machine, which can cause fatigue after extended use.
Cost Considerations
Ride-On Sweepers: At first, the initial cost is a little higher than that of a walk-behind sweeper.
But, their true value lies in reduced labor costs; reduced cleaning times often justifying an initial higher upfront investment over its lifespan.
Like this 1950 ride on street sweeper, its working time can achieve 5-8 hours, and the applicable area covers 3000-10000㎡. Operators can use the floor machine in such large areas, which can save time and labor. Thus, the initial cost is cost-efficient.
Walk-Behind Sweeper: Its price is relatively low. But its sweeping area is smaller than that of a ride-on sweeper.
Debris Capacity & Cleaning Power
Ride-On Sweepers: It has much larger hoppers and more powerful suction systems. So, if the floors contain a large amount of debris, including heavy-duty industrial waste and larger items, the floor sweeper machine can handle it effectively.
Equipped with double-sided brooms and a large capacity garbage storage space, the 1950s industrial ride-on sweeper can tackle lots of debris, and you do not need to stop emptying it.
Walk-Behind Sweepers: Their hoppers are smaller than those of a ride-on sweeper. So it is suitable for daily dust, dirt, and lighter debris. But you need to clean and empty certain types of debris frequently.
Who is suitable for using a ride-on floor sweeper?
Ride-on floor sweepers are an effective choice for facilities requiring large-scale floor cleaning. If you have huge areas that need regular cleaning, for example, a warehouse, manufacturing plant, airport concourse, shopping mall, or big retail store, a ride-on will significantly increase efficiency.
Having a ride-on sweeper that combines sweeping and vacuuming functions, the 1250 Ride On Floor Sweeper effectively simplifies cleaning work, saves cleaning time, and reduces cleaning intensity. Especially, it's suitable for use in occasions ranging from 5000 to 20000 square meters.
Choose ride-ons for
＞50,000+ sq. ft. of floor space
Environments with Heavy Debris
Businesses with trained staff
Industrial floor cleaning
Requiring deep cleaning
Locations with enough space
Who is suitable for using a walk-on floor sweeper?
A walk-behind floor scrubber is a very friendly choice for small and medium facilities or those with tight layouts. If your spaces are relatively small– for example, a retail store, school, clinic, restaurant, or small warehouse – a walk-behind can likely clean the space effectively.
Choose walk-behinds for
<50,000 sq. ft. floor
Environments with narrow aisles, tight corners
Tight budget
Conclusion
Choosing a good ride-on sweeper or walk-behind sweeper does not just involve considering one factor. You need to consider it comprehensively according to your practical needs.
Need more information about sweepers? Want to choose the most suitable floor sweeper? Lvtong is here to help.
Contact us at Cleaning@lvtong.com.cn to explore the sweepers series and gain your suitable floor machine. We will try our best to help you.
