It’s the form of carpet cleaning that most carpet manufacturers and most carpet-cleaning professionals swear by. It’s external extraction cleaning and while it may sound like a highly technical process is actually fairly simple and has a number of benefits for the homeowner in keeping their carpets looking new.
First, external extraction carpet cleaning is also known as “warm water extraction cleaning”. In the process, warm water (often mixed with a special cleaning solution) is sprayed over the area from a special machine with an operator-controlled pressure trigger.
The water and the solution mixture are pumped from a tank to a hose that is positioned behind a suction nozzle attached to a long handle. The solution loosens the dirt and grime on the carpet. As the solution is sprayed out, the nozzle is drawn backwards and sucks up the liquid that has been sprayed out.
Many people confuse this carpet cleaning method with steam cleaning, but there are distinct differences and benefits. Steam cleaning uses hot water and, according to professional carpet cleaners, can shrink your carpets and rugs and diminish their lifespan. External extraction uses a milder solution that does not negatively affect your rugs and keeps them looking fresher longer.
Before applying the external extraction method, the carpeted area must be prepared. The carpet must be vacuumed to remove larger, loose particles. In addition, wires and other electrical features should be protected since water will be sprayed in a wide area. While preparing the area for carpet cleaning can take time, the results are well worth it. External extraction cleaning last longer than conventional cleaning and does less damage to your carpet in the long run.
External extraction carpet cleaners are used in many commercial venues such as office buildings because they help fight the grim and dirt that results in high traffic areas better than other methods. Indeed, it is the only carpet cleaning method that is often referred to as “deep cleaning” since the water and solution is virtually injected deep into the carpet fibers. External extraction also is less harmful to the carpet fibers, which means your carpet actually lasts longer than with conventional carpet cleaners.
Some external extraction carpet cleaners are compact models that are relatively simple to use and can be rented and operated by individual homeowners. Professional carpet cleaners that use the external extraction method can involve much larger units that are actually located in a truck or van. The actual hose is then run from the truck or van into the home and the residue from the carpet cleaning is extracted and distributed back to tanks in the truck. This greatly reduces the chances of dirty residue waste being spilled back onto the carpet.
External extraction carpet cleaning is a great way to clean your carpet deeply and thoroughly and reduce the chance of damage due to over-heated water or accidental spills. The method can also extend the life of your carpets and rugs, allowing you to enjoy them for years to come.