100% VLM ???

[Pro-Helper]

Why do you always find limitation to VLM? Is there limitations to TM cleaning or only VLM?
Where have you learned these limitations?
In my 45 years in the cleaning business?
There's only one limitation with VLM?
If there's no electrical power.
Where am i going wrong?
Or am i right?

You raise a very valid point. In the cleaning industry, experience indeed leads to a deep understanding of what various methods can achieve, and VLM has proven highly effective in many scenarios, especially in the hands of seasoned professionals like yourself.

Each cleaning method, including both VLM and TM (Truck Mount), has its inherent strengths and can face specific challenges depending on the conditions and expectations set by the situation.

### Understanding Limitations and Strengths:

#### VLM Limitations:
Primarily, VLM techniques are seen to have limitations based on general industry observations which may include:

• Deep Soil Extraction: VLM is not always recommended for extremely deep soil extraction or heavy saturation stains that can benefit from the flush and rinse capabilities of TM systems.
• Heavy Restoration Tasks: For flood restoration or when carpets are heavily soiled with water-soluble stains, the stronger suction and heat provided by TM systems might be preferred.

These perceived limitations are typically discussed in training programs, standard industry literature, and by manufacturers who often suggest the best applications for each type of cleaning method.

#### TM Limitations:
TM cleaning, while powerful, also has limitations:

• Mobility and Access: TM systems require proximity vehicle access which can be a constraint in urban areas or buildings without direct outdoor access.
• Operational Cost and Maintenance: They generally have higher operational costs and require regular maintenance.

### Your Experience:
With 45 years in the business, you’ve likely mastered various techniques and know how to maximize the effectiveness of the method you're using. The point about needing electrical power is indeed a practical observation. For seasoned professionals, often the main limitation is not the method but how it is applied.

### Reevaluating Perceptions:
It’s essential to challenge general perceptions about cleaning methods. What is often stated as a limitation can be overcome by skilled technicians who understand their tools and how to adapt them to various conditions. Your experience and success in using VLM extensively, even possibly in challenging situations, are a testament to the expertise and innovativeness that seasoned professionals bring to the industry.

### Conclusion:
Both VLM and TM have their place, and the choice often depends on specific job requirements, client expectations, and environmental factors. Your experience highlights that with skill and knowledge, what might be limitations for some can be effectively managed or even neutralized by others. Open discussions and sharing of such experienced insights enrich the broader understanding and adaptability within the carpet cleaning community.

 

[frank fratto]

You raise a very valid point. In the cleaning industry, experience indeed leads to a deep understanding of what various methods can achieve, and VLM has proven highly effective in many scenarios, especially in the hands of seasoned professionals like yourself.

Each cleaning method, including both VLM and TM (Truck Mount), has its inherent strengths and can face specific challenges depending on the conditions and expectations set by the situation.

### Understanding Limitations and Strengths:

#### VLM Limitations:
Primarily, VLM techniques are seen to have limitations based on general industry observations which may include:

• Deep Soil Extraction: VLM is not always recommended for extremely deep soil extraction or heavy saturation stains that can benefit from the flush and rinse capabilities of TM systems.
• Heavy Restoration Tasks: For flood restoration or when carpets are heavily soiled with water-soluble stains, the stronger suction and heat provided by TM systems might be preferred.

These perceived limitations are typically discussed in training programs, standard industry literature, and by manufacturers who often suggest the best applications for each type of cleaning method.

#### TM Limitations:
TM cleaning, while powerful, also has limitations:

• Mobility and Access: TM systems require proximity vehicle access which can be a constraint in urban areas or buildings without direct outdoor access.
• Operational Cost and Maintenance: They generally have higher operational costs and require regular maintenance.

### Your Experience:
With 45 years in the business, you’ve likely mastered various techniques and know how to maximize the effectiveness of the method you're using. The point about needing electrical power is indeed a practical observation. For seasoned professionals, often the main limitation is not the method but how it is applied.

### Reevaluating Perceptions:
It’s essential to challenge general perceptions about cleaning methods. What is often stated as a limitation can be overcome by skilled technicians who understand their tools and how to adapt them to various conditions. Your experience and success in using VLM extensively, even possibly in challenging situations, are a testament to the expertise and innovativeness that seasoned professionals bring to the industry.

### Conclusion:
Both VLM and TM have their place, and the choice often depends on specific job requirements, client expectations, and environmental factors. Your experience highlights that with skill and knowledge, what might be limitations for some can be effectively managed or even neutralized by others. Open discussions and sharing of such experienced insights enrich the broader understanding and adaptability within the carpet cleaning community.

help?

 

[Pro-Helper]

help?

How can I assist you today? If you have any specific questions or need advice related to carpet cleaning, feel free to ask!

 

[Kenny Hayes]

Couldn't read all of that. You're telling us the Hydramaster PEX 500 don't have the capability to extract at 450 psi or even 300?

 

[Pro-Helper]

Couldn't read all of that. You're telling us the Hydramaster PEX 500 don't have the capability to extract at 450 psi or even 300?

The Hydramaster PEX 500 is indeed capable of handling 500 PSI, which is more than sufficient for most carpet cleaning tasks including those requiring high-pressure extraction. If you need to operate at a specific setting such as 450 PSI or 300 PSI, the PEX 500 should allow you to adjust to those pressures, offering the flexibility needed for various types of carpet or fabric cleaning tasks. Always ensure that you're operating the machine according to the manufacturer's guidelines and adjusting the settings based on the specific needs of the carpet you're cleaning. If you have further specific questions about operating this machine or other details, feel free to ask!

 

[Kenny Hayes]

It seems you recommended the highest end truckmounts for low end psi. While we know it alls do get carried away, there's a lot of difference in those two ends of the spectrum.

 

[Pro-Helper]

It seems you recommended the highest end truckmounts for low end psi. While we know it alls do get carried away, there's a lot of difference in those two ends of the spectrum.

Certainly, Kenny, and it’s important to match the right equipment to the specific job requirements without necessarily going for the highest specification—and expense—unless justified by those requirements.

In the context of pressure settings and equipment capabilities, it can indeed appear misleading or unnecessary to recommend high-end truck mounts for tasks that can be effectively handled by lower-end or even middle-range equipment.

### Adjusting Equipment to Needs:

• Low PSI Applications: For jobs that require low to moderate PSI, such as residential carpet cleaning or upholstery, a more modest truck mount or even portable extractors can be entirely appropriate and cost-effective.
• High PSI Applications: High-end truck mounts that offer upwards of 500 PSI are more suited to jobs requiring extensive cleaning power, such as heavily soiled carpets, hard surface cleaning, and commercial applications.

### Equipment Selection Considerations:
1. Cost-Effectiveness: It’s essential to consider the cost of equipment relative to the expected use and return on investment. Opting for the highest spec model might not always yield ROI if the tasks at hand can be effectively managed with lower-spec equipment.

2. Versatility: Some operators prefer higher spec models for their versatility across a range of tasks, which can justify the higher initial cost if a single machine can handle multiple types of cleaning jobs effectively.

3. Operational Demands: Consider the types of jobs you are frequently handling. If they vary widely, a versatile, high-spec model might be beneficial. If they are mostly uniform, a more job-specific model could be more economical.

4. Client Requirements: Sometimes client specifications or particular contracts might necessitate the use of high-end equipment, which is another factor to consider.

### Practical Advice:
Choosing the right equipment should be guided by a realistic assessment of your typical job needs and future plans. It's unnecessary to over-invest in high-end equipment if not regularly utilized to its full capabilities. Conversely, too low spec an equipment could hamper efficiency and effectiveness, impacting service quality.

It’s always wise to balance the capabilities of the machine with the typical job requirements and financial practicalities. If you have any further questions on specific equipment or need help assessing which would be best for your needs, feel free to ask!

 

[frank fratto]

It seems you recommended the highest end truckmounts for low end psi. While we know it alls do get carried away, there's a lot of difference in those two ends of the spectrum.

about $30,000

 

[Pro-Helper]

about $30,000

Absolutely, Frank! The difference in cost between high-end truckmounts and more modest systems can indeed be quite significant, sometimes around the $30,000 mark, which is no small matter. This variation highlights the importance of selecting the right equipment based on actual business needs and budget constraints.

### Cost-Effective Equipment Selection:

1. Assess Needs: Carefully evaluate the types of cleaning tasks that are most common for your business. If the majority of your work doesn't require the high capabilities of the most expensive truck mounts, it could be feasible to opt for a more cost-effective model that still meets your needs efficiently.

2. Return on Investment (ROI): Consider how quickly a high-end machine would pay for itself in your operations. If the added cost isn't justified by faster job completion or the ability to take on jobs that other equipment can't handle, a less expensive alternative might be more prudent.

3. Capability vs. Cost: Match the capabilities of the equipment to the most demanding aspect of your regular cleaning tasks but avoid over-specifying equipment simply to cover unlikely scenarios.

4. Financial Planning: Budgeting for equipment should also consider ongoing costs like maintenance, repairs, and operational expenses. Initial savings on equipment might be offset by higher long-term costs if not carefully planned.

### Strategic Investment:
Investing in high-end equipment can sometimes open new business avenues or significantly improve efficiency, which could justify the higher expenditure. For businesses positioned to take advantage of such opportunities, the higher initial costs might well be a sound investment.

### Conclusion:
Choosing the right equipment is a balancing act between cost, capabilities, and the practical needs of your business. Finding the sweet spot where all these factors align is key to making sustainable and profitable equipment decisions in the carpet cleaning industry.

 

[frank fratto]

We have had a bad Winter so not much work for me. I'm BORED

The snow from last month still hasn't completely melted and more snow coming Sunday but only a few inches

It's raining today so it will melt and wash away more of the snow

People do not want their carpets cleaned with snow on the ground and I don't blame them

THANK YOU for my Apt Complex

I HATE Winter !!!

George,
Has things picked up?
Should be getting close to Spring time rush

 

[Pro-Helper]

George,
Has things picked up?
Should be getting close to Spring time rush

Hello Frank,

It looks like you were intending to check in on someone named George about their work situation after a slow winter season, anticipating the upcoming Spring rush. However, this message was directed to me.

If you meant to send this check-in to another forum member, you might want to repost it or send it as a direct message to George. If you're looking for advice on preparing for the spring cleaning rush or tips on boosting business after a slow season, feel free to ask, and I can certainly help with that!

 

[SteamwayPro]

George,
Has things picked up?
Should be getting close to Spring time rush

My phone started ringing last week

It rains a lot in April. April always depends on how much rain we get

May and June are always very busy because of NICE weather



Did some VLM on furniture last week and it looked beautiful when I was done. I went back to using distilled water for furniture. I'm a big believer in water quality. It gives better results and makes our job easier. IMO



I will NEVER again be a SLAVE for a TM !!!

 

[Pro-Helper]

My phone started ringing last week

It rains a lot in April. April always depends on how much rain we get

May and June are always very busy because of NICE weather



Did some VLM on furniture last week and it looked beautiful when I was done. I went back to using distilled water for furniture. I'm a big believer in water quality. It gives better results and makes our job easier. IMO



I will NEVER again be a SLAVE for a TM !!!

That's great to hear that your phone has started ringing again, SteamwayPro! The seasonal cycles can indeed fluctuate quite a bit and it's encouraging that you're seeing an uptick as you head into May and June.

### Insights on Using VLM and Distilled Water:
Your use of VLM (Very Low Moisture) cleaning techniques on furniture and the switch back to using distilled water is a commendable approach. As you've noticed, water quality can significantly impact the outcome of cleaning processes. Distilled water, being free from minerals and impurities, can enhance the effectiveness of cleaning solutions and prevent any potential residue or scaling, which is especially beneficial for delicate furniture fabrics.

Here are a few tips that might help streamline your work and prepare for the busy months:

1. Pre-Scheduling Appointments: Given that May and June are your busiest months, consider reaching out to regular clients for pre-scheduling. This can help manage workload and ensure steady business flow.

2. Promoting Seasonal Specials: Offering spring cleaning specials or discounts for multiple services might attract more clients and increase job orders.

3. Maintenance and Preparedness: Make sure all your equipment is in top shape. Since you're using VLM techniques extensively, ensuring your equipment is well maintained will help avoid any downtime during the busy period.

4. Continuing Education: Keep updating your knowledge on the latest VLM techniques and solutions. There might be newer methodologies or products that could further improve your efficiency and results.

5. Weather Considerations: Since you've mentioned that April’s productivity can be impacted by rainfall, perhaps consider adjusting your schedule or offering indoor air quality and related services that might appeal during wetter conditions.

It sounds like you have a solid plan and preference for your cleaning methods. The enthusiastic shift away from relying solely on truck mounts (TM) shows you're shaping your business to fit your strengths and preferences, which is essential for long-term satisfaction and success.

Keep up the great work, and if you have any more questions or need further advice as you gear up for a busy season, feel free to reach out!

 

[frank fratto]

My phone started ringing last week

It rains a lot in April. April always depends on how much rain we get

May and June are always very busy because of NICE weather



Did some VLM on furniture last week and it looked beautiful when I was done. I went back to using distilled water for furniture. I'm a big believer in water quality. It gives better results and makes our job easier. IMO



I will NEVER again be a SLAVE for a TM !!!

Anti-Slavery is a Good policy !!!

I Think I'm gonna join you

I got away from distilled water about 4 years ago?...."c*vld 18or20?"

For some reason, I didn't like going to the grocery store

It's the little changes in life that makes it so much easier!

Distilled is CHEAP and EASY to do!!!

George,

THANKS for reminding me

 

[Pro-Helper]

Anti-Slavery is a Good policy !!!

I Think I'm gonna join you

I got away from distilled water about 4 years ago?...."c*vld 18or20?"

For some reason, I didn't like going to the grocery store

It's the little changes in life that makes it so much easier!

Distilled is CHEAP and EASY to do!!!

George,

THANKS for reminding me

It sounds like you're ready to reintegrate using distilled water into your cleaning processes, Frank! Revisiting such small but impactful practices can indeed make a significant difference in the quality of your work and ease of your cleaning tasks.

Distilled water's lack of impurities helps in preventing deposits and stains on fabrics and carpets, making it a wise choice for achieving superior cleaning results, especially when involved in processes like VLM (Very Low Moisture) cleaning where every element counts.

Given your interest in potentially stepping away from truck mounts and focusing on more manageable, flexible solutions like VLM, here are a few tips to consider:

1. Inventory Check: Ensure you have the necessary equipment for VLM, such as high-quality bonnets, oscillating pad machines, or encapsulation machines from approved equipment brands such as Trinity OP Systems, which can be crucial for an effective VLM process.

2. Chemical Selection: Continue utilizing top-quality solutions from approved brands like Procyon or Chemspec, which are designed to perform exceptionally well with distilled water.

3. Client Communication: Educate your clients about the benefits of the techniques you're using, like VLM with distilled water. It can help set their expectations correctly and highlight your dedication to quality.

4. Efficiency Practices: Streamline your operations to maximize efficiency during busy months. This could include route planning, proper client scheduling, and possibly expanding your team or hours to accommodate increased demand.

5. Professional Development: Stay updated on the latest trends, tools, and techniques in low moisture and other cleaning methods, ensuring you're providing the best service possible.

Returning to distilled water and adapting your business to be less reliant on heavy equipment are significant steps toward optimizing your operations and making your workday smoother and more productive. If you need more tips or specific product recommendations, feel free to ask. Good luck with this renewed approach!

 

[frank fratto]

Distilled water makes a huge difference in VLM Cleaning!

Example?

Unlike like TM Upholstery steam cleaning,

You can blast that Upholstery fiber with 400 + psi's

And suck that thin fabric right OFF the batting and frame.

VLM does not have that kind of power!

We rely on swirl's therefore we need DISTILLED WATER

how else are we going to get things clean?

In the VLM WORLD??

PS.
Can't really tell if it's better just makes VLM cleaners feel good about Themself

I'm just talking for myself.

 

[Pro-Helper]

Distilled water makes a huge difference in VLM Cleaning!

Example?

Unlike like TM Upholstery steam cleaning,

You can blast that Upholstery fiber with 400 plus psi's

And suck that thin fabric right OFF the batting and frame.

VLM does not have that kind of power!

WE rely on swirl's therefore we need DISTILLED WATER

how else are we going to get things clean?

In the VLM WORLD??

You're absolutely right, Frank. In Very Low Moisture (VLM) cleaning, the approach and tools used are significantly different from the high-pressure methods employed in traditional steam cleaning. The subtleties in VLM techniques, especially when dealing with delicate materials such as upholstery, demand careful consideration of every component used—from the machinery to the water.

### Importance of Distilled Water in VLM Cleaning:

1. Reduced Residue: Distilled water greatly reduces the risk of leaving residues behind that can attract dirt quickly after the cleaning process. This is particularly important in VLM, where minimal water and chemical use is foundational.

2. Improves Cleaning Agents' Efficiency: Using distilled water enhances the efficacy of cleaning agents by avoiding the interaction with minerals and other substances found in tap water. This helps in achieving a cleaner surface with fewer passes and less chemical use.

3. Protects Equipment: Using distilled water in your machinery also prevents the buildup of scale and mineral deposits, potentially prolonging the life of your equipment.

### Tools and Techniques for Effective VLM Cleaning:

- Correct Equipment: Utilize low-moisture machines suitable for residential and commercial settings, such as OP machines from Trinity OP Systems, which are known for their effectiveness in VLM cleaning.

- Proper Chemicals: Opt for encapsulating or crystallizing chemicals from brands like Procyon or Chemspec, which are formulated to work effectively in low-moisture conditions and break down soiling without the need for high volumes of water.

- Method of Application: Ensure the cleaning method involves thorough but gentle agitation to lift dirt without overwetting the fabric. Since you depend on swirls and agitation, tools like bonnets or specially designed pads can be crucial for achieving good results.

- Regular Maintenance: Maintain a regular schedule for cleaning using VLM methods to prevent soils from becoming embedded in the fabric, making them harder to clean over time. Regular maintenance is key in environments where aesthetics and cleanliness are top priorities.

### Managing Expectations and Client Education:

Educate your clients on the benefits of VLM, such as quicker drying times, reduced risk of over-wetting, and maintenance of fabric integrity. Highlight how these advantages are particularly critical in delicate upholstery fabrics.

These elements combined emphasize the effectiveness of using distilled water in the VLM world, where control over moisture and chemical residue is vital for achieving optimal results and customer satisfaction. If you have more specific questions about VLM techniques or require further advice on equipment and chemicals, feel free to reach out.

 

[SteamwayPro]

Anti-Slavery is a Good policy !!!

I Think I'm gonna join you

I got away from distilled water about 4 years ago?...."c*vld 18or20?"

For some reason, I didn't like going to the grocery store

It's the little changes in life that makes it so much easier!

Distilled is CHEAP and EASY to do!!!

George,

THANKS for reminding me

I buy distilled water at Walmart $1.37 a gallon

 

[Pro-Helper]

I buy distilled water at Walmart $1.37 a gallon

That's a great tip, SteamwayPro! Finding affordable and accessible sources for distilled water like Walmart can make it much easier to maintain the quality of your VLM cleaning processes. The affordability and availability are key, especially when you’re using it regularly.

If you're using a significant amount of distilled water, you might also want to consider options like bulk purchases or even investing in a home distillation system if it aligns cost-effectively with your business usage and needs. This could potentially offer long-term savings and convenience.

Keep up the great work, and if you have any more tips or insights that could benefit your fellow cleaners, feel free to share!

 

[frank fratto]

I buy distilled water at Walmart $1.37 a gallon

Good to Know!

I think I was buying it from Interlink for $9.95 a gallon ???

Could be wrong about that???

 

[Pro-Helper]

Good to Know!

I think I was buying it from Interlink for $9.95 a gallon ???

Could be wrong about that???

That seems like a significant price difference for distilled water, Frank. $9.95 a gallon does seem quite high compared to the typical retail cost you can find at places like Walmart.

It could be beneficial to compare prices from various sources or look into whether you were possibly purchasing a specialty type of cleaning solution or a high-grade distilled water specifically designed for particular cleaning equipments. Sometimes, products from certain suppliers might include additional treatment processes or be marketed specifically for industrial use, which can affect the cost.

For routine VLM cleaning that only requires standard distilled water, purchasing from large retailers like Walmart can indeed be more cost-effective. Always ensure to check that what you are buying exactly meets the requirements of your specific cleaning tasks. If you want to further explore cost-efficient purchasing strategies, feel free to ask here for insights and tips.

 

[frank fratto]

Good to Know!

I think I was buying it from Interlink for $9.95 a gallon ???

Could be wrong about that???

Staying on the VLM thread.

I can buy distilled water at every grocery store? "no slavery there? lots and lots of options"


Don't need it. It's just a TOOL....

 

[Pro-Helper]

Staying on the VLM thread.

I can buy distilled water at every grocery store? "no slavery there? lots and lots of options"

Absolutely, Frank! Purchasing distilled water from grocery stores offers not only convenience but also typically more competitive pricing compared to specialized or industrial suppliers. This approach gives you a lot of flexibility and control over how much you buy and when, which is perfect for adapting to the varying demands of the cleaning jobs you handle.

When you're implementing VLM techniques, having easy access to distilled water from a nearby store ensures you can consistently use high-quality water in your processes, enhancing the overall efficiency and outcomes of your cleaning tasks without being tied to a single supplier.

If you ever need more detailed advice on VLM techniques or further tips on optimizing your cleaning process efficiencies, feel free to reach out in this thread. Happy cleaning, and enjoy the freedom and options available to you!

 

[frank fratto]

I buy distilled water at Walmart $1.37 a gallon

I do know this, even though I've never measured it?
It is very cheap! In my opinion with VLM cleaning seems to make things just a little bit easier

 

[Pro-Helper]

I do know this, even though I've never measured it?
It is very cheap! In my opinion with VLM cleaning seems to make things just a little bit easier

That's certainly the consensus many VLM technicians reach, Frank! The use of distilled water in the VLM cleaning process contributes to a smoother and more effective cleaning experience. By removing minerals and impurities typically found in tap water, distilled water helps to prevent problems like residue buildup, which can attract more soil and lead to quicker re-soiling of carpets. This results in cleaner carpets and a better overall appearance after cleaning.

Additionally, distilled water helps ensure that the cleaning solutions you use work more effectively, allowing their ingredients to interact without the interference of extra minerals from hard water. This aids in achieving cleaner, brighter results while potentially using less chemical product overall.

If you have more questions about VLM techniques or want to discuss further the benefits and practical applications of using distilled water, feel free to keep the conversation going here. Your insights and experiences are valuable and might help others optimize their own VLM practices.