How To Descale A Carpet Cleaning Machine

A clean carpet adds appeal to the room. But how could you descale a carpet cleaning machine? When should you do it? Relax. We've researched the answers for you!

Descaling is a way to clean the metallic surfaces of a machine. This helps unclog the suction hose of a carpet cleaner, for example. See below the steps for descaling a carpet cleaner:

  1. Wear gloves and pour the descaling solution into the tank.
  2. Add water at a ratio of the same amount of descaling solution.
  3. Plug the cleaner into power, then connect the water hose to the tank.
  4. Turn on the cleaner and let it circulate the descaling and water mixture for about two minutes.
  5. Unplug the hose, then let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Turn on the cleaner again and let it run for a few more minutes to dissolve any remaining scaling.
  7. Drain the cleaner tank.

Throughout this article, we'll provide steps on how to descale a carpet cleaning machine. We'll discuss the importance of doing it, and when should you do it. There's so much more we'll share with you. So, let's read up to the end!

Suction grey carpet cleaning with vacuum cleaner, How To Descale A Carpet Cleaning Machine?

How to Descale a Carpet Cleaning Machine

Descaling means using a substance that can remove the layer of scales that accumulates when a metallic object has contact with hot water. Scaling is common in water heaters, kettles, and boilers.

Carpet cleaners can also accumulate scaling due to combined suction pressure and electricity that creates heat during use. The dirty water slightly heats up when the temperature transmits to the metal parts of a cleaner.

Descaling is important to maintain the cleaner's efficiency. The buildup of scales can interfere by weakening the cleaner's suction force.

See this descaler set on Amazon.

Watch a video here for a demonstration of the steps:

How to Make Homemade Descaler

Aside from a descaling solution, you can use a vinegar solution as an alternative. Vinegar is a strong solvent, enough to dissolve hard dirt, including the scaling from hard water. See below the steps on how to make it:

  1. Wear a mask and gloves.
  2. Prepare a clean, empty container like a spray bottle or bottle with a cap.
  3. In a small basin, mix water and vinegar in equal amounts.
  4. Add a dishwashing liquid and lemon extract.
  5. Add rubbing alcohol if you prefer to make the solution stronger.
  6. Stir the mixture.
  7. Get the empty container and a funnel.
  8. Gently pour the mixture through the funnel and into the container; cap it.
  9. Add a label "Descaler" on the container.
  10. Store in place away from the children's reach.

What is Hard Water?

Have you ever used the kitchen sink and the stainless countertop starts forming dry, white spots? Such white spots are the scaling effect of hard water. The scaling can also happen to your carpet cleaner.

Hard water results when residential tap water gets too many minerals, which are strong enough to leave scaling marks on almost any surface. Hard water is not recommended for drinking, but we often use it for cleaning and washing dishes and utensils.

Most homeowners use tap water, which is sometimes hard water, when they're cleaning with a carpet cleaner. The frequent, unconscious use of hard water is what mainly causes the scaling in the carpet cleaner.

This is the reason why the scaling builds up in the cleaner tank, hose, and other metallic surfaces.

You can ask or report the hard water to your local water provider. They can check the main water supply to resolve the abundant minerals on water they distribute to their consumers.

What Shampoo Comes with a Carpet Cleaner?

A carpet shampoo is a solution made for eliminating dirt, odor, and stains on a carpet. Carpet shampoos vary on the kind of mixture and special purpose. Some are made for removing pet stains and some are multi-purposed.

However, you should look for mild shampoos, as too strong solution can cause scaling on the cleaning machine. See below some types of shampoo to consider.

Pet Stain Remover

Pet Stain Remover - Cleaning carpet stains using sponge and spot remover

It's a type of shampoo specialized in removing pet stains, such as pet's poop or pees. This is ideal for houses with dog or cat that often rest on the carpet.

Carpet Shampoo for Cars

Carpet Shampoo for Cars - washing a car by hand

The carpet used in a car is quite different from the house carpet. This shampoo is made to deep-clean the stains on a car's carpet or fabric surfaces.

However, you should seek guidance from your car manufacturer for the proper way of cleaning its carpet. Some parts of a car are sensitive to cleaning solutions.

Eco-Friendly Shampoo

This shampoo uses biodegradable components that are not harmful for the environment. This is a good alternative to solutions that have a strong smell. However, you might need to see if the solution is certified safe by the environment authorities.

Powderized Shampoo

Powderized Shampoo - woman applying dry shampoo

It's a type of shampoo that's made powder. You just need to talc it on top of a stain when you use it. However, powderized shampoos may not remove hard stains. Rather, they can improve the smell of a carpet.

How Often to Clean a Carpet

How Often to Clean a Carpet - Vacuum cleaner on a carpet with an extra clean strip for copy space

Consider deep-cleaning the carpet every 12-18 months. The dust becomes harmful when it accumulates for a long time. Such dust is bad for inhalation and can lead to allergies, especially for pets that often sleep or rest on the floor.

However, you don't have to wait for a year to clean a carpet. Consider simple vacuum cleaning everyday to suck off the dust from yesterday's activities. This is to maintain breathable air and an appealing room.

How Much is a Carpet Cleaning Machine?

How Much is a Carpet Cleaning Machine - Man cleaning in the flat with vacuum cleaner

Carpet cleaners differ in size and instruction of use. Expect to spend around $1,900 to $7,000 depending on the model of the carpet cleaner. It's practical to choose the model that has a stretchable hose, a long handle, and a large tank.

On the other hand, you can rent a carpet cleaning machine for as low as $20 for 12 hours. You can also rent for a month which costs $300 to $550.

The prices could change depending on your location, model of the machine, and duration of use.

What You Should Never Clean with a Carpet Cleaning Machine?

Of course, there are things that are not suitable to clean with a carpet cleaner. Most models are designed to eliminate dirt and not solid, large particles that could damage the machine. See below the list of things you should not clean with a carpet cleaner.

Broken Glass

Broken glass is potentially harmful, as it may stuck inside the hose and tank. As a result, the machine may not function normally on your next use. Instead, it's good to sweep the broken glass with a broomstick and a dustpan.

Wet Foods

Do not use a carpet cleaner to suck off wet foods. They can get too smelly for the waste tank. Instead, pick up the fallen foods with a tissue or a plastic bag. Wet foods can stick to the suction tube, causing a blockage.

Ashes

Cleaning the ash with a carpet cleaner will just spread the ash particles into the air, which may cause breathing difficulties. Also, ash may darken the waste tank that can lead to permanent dark spots.

Small Materials

You should not use a cafpet cleaner to collect the paper clips and other small materials, like coins and screws. Such materials may break and scratch the tank when the machine is turned on. Rather, pick up small materials to avoid damages.

How Long Can Carpet Cleaners Last?

Modern carpet cleaning machines can last between 8-10 years. Keep in mind that using the machine correctly prolongs its lifespan.

Conclusion

We're glad you joined us up to this point. We learned how to descale a carpet cleaning machine, and even shared some relevant information you should know about. You also learned how to make a descaling solution at home.

Remember to use the carpet cleaner properly for efficient cleaning performance.

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