A washing vacuum cleaner is a technique that makes everyday tasks easier with its ease of use. Washing machines differ from ordinary vacuum cleaners in their increased functionality, which is why people often use them in everyday life. However, not everyone knows how to properly care for the device and what potential it contains. Proper use for its intended purpose will not only extend the life of the device, but will also help in daily routine.
Unit design
General cleaning of premises is a complex and labor-intensive process, so it is difficult to carry out a large-scale event manually. As a solution to the problem, companies producing equipment offer models with universal capabilities.
First of all, you need to understand what washing vacuum cleaners are. Such devices are designed for dry and wet cleaning of large areas. Additionally, the device collects or sprays moisture depending on the purpose, and is also equipped with a steam cleaning system. Structurally, the device is made of two containers, one contains clean water with the addition of cleaning agents, and the second collects dirt.
The location of the tanks depends on the technical decisions of the developers, but a common option is the “capacity within a container” principle. This approach allows you to add water by removing the top cover of the housing. Of course, there are other types:
- One above the other - forces the user to remove the container to empty the dirty liquid;
- They are located one behind the other - a separate withdrawal that saves the owner’s time.
When choosing a washing device, take into account the size of the area to be cleaned. Accordingly, the higher the footage of the living space, the larger the container should be. Otherwise, most of the time will be spent filling water and cleaning the tank. It is noteworthy that the manufacturers' engineers developed a design to improve the operating principle of a washing vacuum cleaner, i.e., the goal is to increase the useful volume of the container in order to reduce maintenance time in the process of putting things in order.
Washing vacuum cleaner device
When choosing a model, sales consultants recommend relying on the following parameters:
- minimum suction power 800 W;
- a set of filters and their varieties;
- nozzles;
- type of tube;
- container maintenance method;
- The minimum length of the network cable is 7 meters.
Note: if the clean liquid in the tank runs out, you can fill it at any time, but first drain the dirty water.
An additional design feature of household appliances is a special capillary tube for supplying the cleaning composition. It is often presented in the form of transparent plastic located along the main hose, but in some representatives it is located inside the main pipe. How such washing vacuum cleaners work: the cleaning agent is supplied through a pipe and, due to the nozzle, is sprayed over the surface. In this case, dirty water passes through a vacuum suction into the main tube and settles in a separate container.
Detergent is supplied through a capillary tube
The prevailing number of devices are equipped with various types of protective filtration systems, but HEPA fine filters are popular. However, they are ineffective for wet cleaning, since blockages gradually form in them, which reduces the suction power and the quality of cleaning. An additional disadvantage is the accumulation of dust, dirt, and microbes on them, which subsequently pollutes the air, leading to the development of diseases in households. Therefore, it is recommended to choose separator units, i.e. without filters.
What to do if you get mercury
Mercury is dangerous to the health of living organisms due to its high toxicity. Mercury vapor released into the air can cause serious injury to the respiratory system. Contact with skin or mucous membranes will result in burns. Contrary to popular belief, collecting mercury with a vacuum cleaner is strictly prohibited. Getting inside the vacuum cleaner, mercury turns the electrical appliance into a hotbed for the spread of harmful vapors, settling on the internal elements and the engine. To understand whether the vacuum cleaner can continue to be used after exposure to mercury, it is necessary to measure the background toxicity.
Availability determination
First of all, if you are not sure that mercury has gotten inside the vacuum cleaner, it is necessary to determine the presence of a harmful background using a rapid test. Order of conduct:
- Remove the dust bag and disconnect the electrical appliance from the mains.
- Place the parts in a plastic bag.
- Place the test inside the bag so that the reagent is on top and above the part by at least 20 cm.
- After 3-4 hours, if there is a high concentration of mercury, the test strip will turn light gray.
To identify a source or areas with a high concentration of a toxic substance, it is necessary to either carry out the procedure several times, excluding different parts of the vacuum cleaner, or immediately purchase several tests and place the elements in different bags.
How to get rid
If tests reveal a high concentration of mercury, you can try to get rid of it yourself. You will need to purchase a demercurizer, the simplest one, for example, “Mercury Eater”.
Perform the manipulations in the following order:
- Assemble the vacuum cleaner and turn it on.
- Spray liquid demercurizer inside the hose (5-6 times).
- Turn off the appliance after 2 minutes. Place the vacuum cleaner outdoors for 5-7 days.
Afterwards, you will need to re-test for the presence of harmful toxins. The cleaning procedure can be carried out several times. If cleaning is unsuccessful, you will have to get rid of the vacuum cleaner.
Operation of a washing vacuum cleaner
Such equipment has relatively recently appeared on the market of household equipment for the home, so it is natural to be interested in what washing vacuum cleaners do. With the help of the device, housewives quickly and effectively carry out wet cleaning without the use of buckets and mops. Additionally, you can clean any surfaces, including upholstered furniture, windows, etc.
Principle of operation and operation
Regardless of the model, the essence of operation is identical - there are two containers filled with water inside. From one, a liquid is taken, mixed with a special agent for spraying on the surface. Upon contact with the floor, the composition interacts with dirt, after which reverse suction occurs and drains into a second container.
Operating principle of a washing vacuum cleaner
Direct spraying is carried out through a capillary tube attached to the handle of the device. The dust enters through a vacuum suction into the nozzle used for dry cleaning. When wet, small particles increase in weight and settle inside the tank without returning to the room. Due to this, the air in the room becomes clean. It is noteworthy that some models are equipped with a built-in mechanical filter to retain large elements.
Please note: manufacturers supply the market with a product line equipped with a protective filtration system - aqua filters, separators and others. Well-known brands are Zelmer, Karcher, THOMAS, Philips, etc.
Kinds
All existing versions of hand-held vacuum cleaners are a modern variation on the theme of expanding the functionality of a classic unit. A long-handled brush with direct cyclonic suction is convenient for cleaning carpets and various surfaces, and is suitable for multifunctional use - in the care of textiles and upholstery.
By type of cleaning
Dry cleaning units. The most common options are equipped with nozzles with a brush - for cleaning furniture or carpets, as well as a classic polymer nozzle for sucking debris from hard surfaces. They provide ease of use, quickly and efficiently collect small crumbs, sand and many other small debris that are difficult to collect with other devices or sweep away manually.
Models for wet cleaning. The features of small washing vacuum cleaners for furniture, floors, and windows make the cleaning process as high-tech and simple as possible. The liquid is supplied using a special diffuser, eliminating the formation of drops or puddles of water on the floor.
Such models are especially popular among people suffering from allergic reactions, as they help rid the air of excessive dryness and dust particles. Washing devices are especially relevant for caring for floors made of natural stone, porcelain stoneware, and tiles.
By purpose
Portable hand-held vacuum cleaners are also quite varied in purpose.
Car mini vacuum cleaners. They are medium in size and usually come with several attachments for treating surfaces with different textures; washing models allow for wet cleaning.
By food type
It is generally accepted that hand-held vacuum cleaners are exclusively cordless equipment, but manufacturers also produce a fairly wide range of portable options powered by the network (with a wire). The low mobility of the device is compensated by longer operation. But a wired connection turns this convenient device into another classic household appliance.
Cordless versions of hand-held vacuum cleaners are not very powerful, but they do an excellent job of local cleaning. They are suitable for cleaning in places where it is impossible or inconvenient to use conventional equipment. A variety of sizes and design options also gives the wireless device functionality. On a battery, the operating time is usually limited to 10-15 minutes.
How to prepare equipment for work
To understand how to properly use washing vacuum cleaners, you need to familiarize yourself with the rules for preparing equipment for use. The user should check the complete set of attachments and perform simple manipulations, the same for models with and without filters. After checking, proceed to the following actions:
- Pour clean liquid into the container;
- The cleaning agent is added in accordance with the dosage specified in the operating instructions;
- Place the end of the water tube into the spray nozzle, connect the second part to the telescopic element;
- Install the hose into the tube to which the necessary nozzle is already attached to restore order;
- Remove the network cable from the compartment and connect it to the outlet.
If the model is equipped with a filtration protection system, then the following manipulations must be carried out:
- A defoamer is added to the container for collecting dirt if a special cleaning shampoo is used;
- checking the cleanliness of HEPA filters;
- If the device uses an aquafilter, you should also make sure it is clean and rinse it if necessary.
Understanding why such a vacuum cleaner is needed, you can easily understand the principle of its operation. It is also necessary to take into account that a number of models allow the use of devices for cleaning waterproof coatings, carpets and latex surfaces. Additionally, the equipment allows for dry cleaning. However, the device is not recommended for use for cleaning carpets made of natural materials and furniture made of fabric that absorbs moisture. This is due to the increased risk of spoiling materials.
Which means to choose
Before operating the equipment, the user selects the composition:
- A universal product suitable for treating any surface;
- Specialized shampoo for car interiors or a specific room;
- Low foaming;
- Gentle compounds are used for laminate and parquet floors;
- The choice for mold elimination is based on disinfectants;
- Products containing softening elements prevent the formation of known deposits and increase the service life of the equipment;
- If a small child, people with allergic reactions or respiratory tract disease live in the apartment, then you should select hypoallergenic products that do not contain phosphates, fragrances and other chemical components with an aggressive effect. It is noteworthy that such preparations effectively eliminate dust mites from upholstered furniture and carpets.
Important!
Some factories offer models with a reservoir of clean liquid placed directly in a dust collection container. Shampoos and other accessories can be purchased at household chemical stores, including on the official websites of equipment manufacturers.
After cleaning is completed
First of all, disconnect the device from the electrical network. After this, remove the hose, nozzles and take out the container with dirty water and wind up the cord. Pour dirty water out of the tank and thoroughly rinse the container along with hoses and nozzles.
If it is a model with a filter, remove and wash the product. The parts are dried well at room temperature, only then collected with a vacuum cleaner and stored.
If you do not wash and dry the filter, nozzles and other parts, a persistent unpleasant odor will appear. In addition, mold and mildew will appear inside the products, and harmful bacteria and dirt will accumulate. Remember that the optional HEPA fine filters and exhaust air filter that are popular today need to be changed every three to six months.
Today, manufacturers offer various models of washing vacuum cleaners with aqua filters, filter separators and other devices. Popular manufacturers include Zelmer, Karcher, Thomas, Philips and others. How to choose the right washing vacuum cleaner, as well as ratings and descriptions of products, can be found at the link.
How to wash the floor
Before starting work, dust is removed with a special nozzle or an ordinary broom. Then the device preparation procedure is carried out. If the device is endowed with sufficient power, the surface will become completely dry and clean in 2-3 minutes. It is noteworthy that linoleum, tiles, laminate and parquet can be safely washed.
Laminate
When exposed to moisture, such a coating quickly becomes unusable, but there are varieties that are resistant to water. For example, materials of classes 32 and 33 are coated with a durable layer that repels liquid.
Such products are allowed to be wet cleaned, but products of class 31 and below are allowed to be cleaned only using the dry method. But, despite these aspects, the power of the device should be at a medium or high level.
Laminate flooring is washed using alkali-free products.
The technique works by spraying the product over the floor surface, moisturizing it. If the power is insufficient, the device will not dry the laminate properly. Accordingly, water will get into the grooves between the panels and rotting will begin. High-power devices prevent liquid leakage.
Rules for vacuuming laminate surfaces with washing vacuum cleaners:
- dirt from the floor is removed at least 2 times a week;
- select products that do not contain alkali;
- refuse drugs based on silicone and wax components;
- the process of moisture entering the space between the boards is controlled;
- joints are treated with mastic annually to ensure sealing;
- do not spray the surface with hot steam;
- It is prohibited to use hard brushes to remove stubborn dirt.
These recommendations allow you to maintain the original appearance of the product and extend its service life. Additionally, the service life can be increased by using a microfiber cloth after treatment with the device, since the rag will absorb any remaining moisture. This can be done by wrapping a rag around the nozzle.
Note: after using the device, all containers are removed and emptied of dirty water. Then the containers are washed and dried. After each cleaning, the floor should be dried additionally - open the windows for an hour and ventilate the room.
Parquet
Parquet can be treated using the wet method no more than twice every 30 calendar days. In this case, gentle products and an appropriate nozzle are used. As in the case of laminate, parquet cannot be treated with preparations containing alkali, wax, silicone, or use coarse bristles. Steam treatment is prohibited during operation.
Parquet is processed no more than twice a month
Due to the fact that parquet is a “capricious” material, interest naturally arises in how to use a washing vacuum cleaner. The following rules must be followed:
- Check the coating for impregnation with water-repellent compounds and protective varnish;
- Set the device to maximum power. In this case, if moisture gets on the surface, the device will qualitatively collect all the water, preventing it from entering the cavities;
- Treat the surface.
User manual
What you need to know:
- Beware of overheating. Working time without a break should be up to two hours.
- The filter needs to be changed twice a month. Dust collectors must be washed after replacing the filter.
- Do not use the device in damp places.
- Avoid working during power surges.
- Not suitable for use by children.
- Do not use the device to collect water, flammable or explosive substances.
- Do not use the device with a damaged power cord or plug. Do not use it if it has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water.
- It is prohibited to leave equipment near heating devices.
- The electric vacuum cleaner is not intended for use by people (including children) with reduced physical or mental capabilities.
- To avoid electric shock, it is recommended not to touch the device with wet hands.
- Do not use without a filter and dust collector.
- It is prohibited to use the device to collect sharp, solid substances.
- Do not use the power cord or hose as a carrying handle.
Correct use of the vacuum cleaner
Rules of use for carpets
How does this carpet cleaning vacuum cleaner work? Algorithm of actions:
- First of all, rugs and carpets are cleaned with a vibrating brush without using water - this allows you to remove dust and debris;
- Then the equipment is prepared, water and cleaning products are poured into the container in the appropriate volume;
- A carpet brush is installed. Manufacturers often equip devices with two attachments - with long and short bristles. The first ones are intended for soft carpets with high pile. The latter are used for short-pile carpet;
- After this, the surface is processed over the entire area by moving the nozzle up and down, evenly moving from one zone to another;
- After putting things in order, the coating is left to dry in its natural environment.
Technical solution
The main disadvantage of conventional dust collectors is the emission of fine dust through the outlet, which then settles in the room. The washing version eliminates this by having two chambers with clean and dirty water.
From the first, water is sprayed under pressure over the surface. The second collects waste moisture along with dust and dirt. To improve cleaning properties, detergents are added to the chamber with clean water. Typically, the manufacturer recommends homemade detergents. For example:
- Thomas ProTex V is recommended for waterproof flooring and upholstery.
- Thomas ProFloor is designed for cleaning ceramics, PVC, and other similar coatings.
Depending on the location of the parts, washing machines have a vertical or horizontal design.
An example of a vertical vacuum cleaner is Zelmer ZVC026XX. Horizontal arrangement of mechanisms for Zelmer ZVC763HPRU with aquafilter. The German manufacturer Thomas also has similar models - vertical Thomas Prestige 20S Aquafilter, horizontal Thomas Twin Tiger. Both models have water filtration.
How to clean windows
If household appliances have the necessary options and are equipped with a special attachment, then you can wash windows and this will be a pleasant addition to the answer to the question of what else you need a washing vacuum cleaner for.
The preparation principle is identical, with the exception of choosing a brush and adjusting the length of the hose. The glass surface is cleaned at low power to avoid streaking. Using top-down movements, the user clears the window.
Advice! It should be borne in mind that such processing is allowed if there is no rubber seal, since when heated, the element may melt.
Famous brands - reliability and quality
Perfect cleanliness in the house is the dream of every housewife, the path to which is sometimes strewn with such thorns that many give up halfway towards their cherished goal. However, purchasing a washing vacuum cleaner will effectively solve most of the problems with maintaining order in your home. When choosing this functional and rather expensive equipment, it is preferable to contact trusted manufacturers who have been producing and selling washing vacuum cleaners for many years. The most popular brands among filter models are such well-known brands as Thomas and Zelmer, which hold leading positions in the mass production of household cleaning equipment
If you want to purchase a filterless assistant, it is better to pay attention to those models in which wet cleaning is a strong point. A good option here would be the German Pro-Aqua separator vacuum cleaner. But remember, washing vacuum cleaners, like, in principle, all household appliances, can very quickly fail if treated carelessly
The service life of vacuum cleaners directly depends on the careful use of them, regardless of the warranty period. By following simple rules and knowing exactly how to use, for example, a Zelmer vacuum cleaner, you can ensure uninterrupted operation of this unit for the longest possible time. Also, the necessary knowledge on how to use the Thomas washing machine will greatly facilitate working with this wonderful device and help extend its life. The same goes for other models
But remember, washing vacuum cleaners, like, in principle, all household appliances, can very quickly fail if they are treated carelessly. The service life of vacuum cleaners directly depends on the careful use of them, regardless of the warranty period. By following simple rules and knowing exactly how to use, for example, a Zelmer vacuum cleaner, you can ensure uninterrupted operation of this unit for the longest possible time. Also, the necessary knowledge on how to use the Thomas washing machine will greatly facilitate working with this wonderful device and help extend its life. The same goes for other models.
There are also a number of restrictions and precautions that should be observed when operating a washing vacuum cleaner. So, for example, in no case should you put it in order (assemble and disassemble) while connected to the network. Sharp objects, flammable, flammable liquids, toxic and fine substances are taboo for cleaning with a washing unit
Sharp objects, flammable, flammable liquids, toxic and finely dispersed substances are taboo for cleaning with a washing unit.
Having carefully studied how to properly use Zelmer or another vacuum cleaner with a wet cleaning function, you will be able to carry out truly high-quality cleaning in the house, allowing you to enjoy perfect order for 10-14 days and it is better not to save on this gadget, otherwise you may pay with your health.
What else is the equipment intended for?
Using a similar technique as washing windows, furniture is cleaned - the device is prepared for work, a brush is installed for washing flock fabric. The actions are carried out from top to bottom in dry mode, then clean liquid without cleaning agents is poured into the container. One approach is enough to refresh the upholstery. To remove dirt in hard-to-reach places, use a crevice nozzle with a narrow spout.
A washing vacuum cleaner also cleans furniture
Washing vacuum cleaner and functions:
- cleaning the floor surface;
- cleaning upholstered furniture;
- window cleaning;
- cleaning curtains;
- removing stains from tiles and linoleum.
Step-by-step instructions for removing stubborn dirt from furniture:
- prepare the composition;
- the resulting solution is poured into the tank;
- nozzles are installed;
- up and down movements under high pressure dissolve dirt;
- debris is removed from the surface using a vacuum suction;
- removal of dirty liquid;
- washing the container;
- refilling with clean water without using any products;
- additional processing.
Rule 9
Follow the rules for working with electrical devices.
- Do not use a vacuum cleaner if your hands are wet.
- The dust container and filters must be cleaned with the power turned off.
- Do not unplug the vacuum cleaner from the outlet by pulling the cord. Use a fork.
- If the vacuum cleaner is not washing, you should not try to remove water or other liquids.
- A sudden change in the volume or tone of a noise usually indicates a problem. It could be just a foreign object that got into the vacuum cleaner, or it could be some serious problem that requires the intervention of a repairman.
Here are the basic rules for caring for a vacuum cleaner. They are not complicated and easy to remember.
Basic moments
- You should definitely read the instructions;
- fill the tank with water and detergents according to the filling standards;
- the first (test) activation or activation after a long period of inactivity of the device is performed at minimum power speed, with a gradual increase in power;
- Before working with delicate surfaces, it is better to carefully test the device on a small, inconspicuous area;
- after washing with chemicals, the preparations must be thoroughly rinsed off, for which the surface is re-treated with clean water or steam;
- delicate surfaces must be dried thoroughly, for which a special suction nozzle is used;
- At the end of cleaning, the vacuum cleaner is disassembled and thoroughly washed, and then dried so that a pathogenic microenvironment does not develop inside.
A Bosch washing vacuum cleaner will become an indispensable assistant in any apartment or private house. The device does not take up much space, but it greatly simplifies the life of any housewife. The main thing is not to make a mistake in choosing a unit and carefully study the attached document; this will allow you to achieve maximum operating efficiency and extend the service life of the useful device.