Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Understanding water pressure

Proper solution pressure ensures good cleaning results and prevents over-wetting with the hot water extraction method. Controlled, reasonable pressure will not blow excess vapor into the room atmosphere* where it has the very real possibility of damaging furnishings and even wall coverings. This side effect of excessive water pressure also retards drying time and increases humidity drastically where it can damage delicate instruments or a grand piano.

To prevent this problem, many manufacturers install hoods (spray retainers) on high pressure (200+ PSI) cleaning heads (wands). The hoods cause the spray to condense and form heavy rivulets of water down the sides of the retainer which soak deeper at the edges of the tool than in the center. As this extra moisture seeks air to dry, it wicks up to the surface of the carpet and causes streaking several days or even weeks after the carpet has dried.

Moderate water pressure, a well-designed cleaning tool, effective cleaning agents and especially an operator trained to use the equipment will get rave reviews from clients along with repeat and referral business. High pressure, when used by an inexperienced operator often causes the consumer to blame the carpet for their dissatisfaction and carpet sales suffer.

*External Extraction® removes the moisture from the premises.

©Bane-Clene® Corporation 2010 Reprinting or electronically publishing this article is strictly prohibited without permission from Bane-Clene Corp.