Floor Scrubber Problems: Troubleshooting Common Issues You May Encounter

The whole reason you invested in a floor scrubber for your operation was to work through tough messes faster and keep your facility in tip-top shape day in, day out. So, encountering floor scrubber problems can be incredibly frustrating.

Don’t sweat it. We’ll take a look at all the common issues you could encounter to help you get your equipment back up and running quickly. We’ve seen it all over the years as the #1 online retailer for a commercial floor scrubber for sale, and we’ll share that expertise below.

Just know if you purchased a machine from our catalog, there’s no need to troubleshoot your issues on your own. Get in touch with our customer support team for one-on-one support in figuring out the root cause of your issue with recommended parts and solutions.

Otherwise, follow along below for help troubleshooting any common floor scrubber problems!

Most Common Floor Scrubber Problems You May Encounter

So why is my floor scrubber not working? First, let’s be clear - even the best commercial floor scrubber is not immune to the occasional downtime! These are complex pieces of equipment with many moving pieces. You should expect things to go wrong every so often.

Of course, this can be mitigated by investing some TLC back into your machine. Regular maintenance goes a long way in helping you avoid more costly issues down the road. We’ll get into some tips on machine care later on. First, let’s start with one of the most common problems.

Poor Water Pickup or Streaking Behind the Machine

Our customers are constantly asking us why their machine is leaving behind water or visible streaks on the floor. The culprit is usually the squeegee system or vacuum recovery when your floors are still wet or have dirty trails.

Start by checking the squeegee blades. Are they torn, worn down unevenly, or installed backward? Water won’t get pulled in properly if these aren’t making full contact with the floor. Our blog has tips on how to adjust squeegee on floor scrubber if needed.

You can inspect the vacuum hose next. All it takes is a small blockage or loose connection to disrupt suction, which can impact the end result. Also, make sure the recovery tank isn’t full. The vacuum motor can’t do its job if it is.

Remember, a floor scrubber can only work as well as the flooring it's cleaning. Uneven floors are going to throw everything off. A slightly raised tile or warped section causes gaps in blade contact. Adjust the squeegee pressure if possible, or try cleaning the area at a slower speed.

Brushes or Pads Not Rotating

The cleaning performance of these machines is all contingent on the brushes or pads doing their job. It’s possible these components aren’t turning if your scrubber glides around but doesn’t seem to actually scrub.

This is often a mechanical issue related to the brush motor or belt drive system. So, start by looking under the deck for any debris. There could be tape, string, even a small rag jamming up the motor shaft.

The belt might be loose or broken if the motor hums but nothing spins. If nothing happens at all, check the control panel or trigger handle to make sure the brush motor is activated.

Some machines also have safety switches that disengage the brushes when the tank is low or the machine isn’t properly seated. If it’s not one of these things, you’ll want to get in touch with our team for more advanced troubleshooting.

Machine Not Dispensing Water or Solution

No water coming out of the scrubber not only means your cleaning process won’t be as effective, but you could end up causing more harm than good to the flooring surface. Most issues here stem from clogged solution lines or jets.

A good place to begin troubleshooting is popping out the removable solution filter (if your machine has one). Give it a thorough clean. Hard water buildup and chemical residue can block flow.

You should also check that the solution tank is seated properly, as a misaligned tank can interrupt the connection to the line. Look for kinks or pinched sections in the solution hose.

If these steps don’t uncover the root cause of your floor scrubber problems, it could be the solenoid valve. This electric component opens and closes the flow to the brush deck. The line stays closed if it fails, and you’ll likely need a replacement if that’s the case.

Weak Battery Performance

Nothing is worse than your machine dying on you halfway through the job. Most commercial floor scrubbers rely on deep-cycle batteries that require regular care. 

Start by confirming your team knows how to charge floor scrubber properly. Avoid letting them run completely dead before recharging, and never leave them on the charger for days at a time. 

Corroded terminals are another issue. Open the battery compartment and inspect the terminals for white crust or frayed wires. Tighten any loose connections and clean the terminals with a battery-safe solution.

Also, be aware that all batteries have a lifespan. If your current set is more than 2-3 years old, it might be time for a replacement. We have new batteries here in our catalog and can point you in the right direction if you reach out!

Error Codes or Electrical Failures

Modern floor scrubbers have electronic control boards that can flash error codes when something goes wrong. These codes can be helpful if you know what they mean. Otherwise, it feels like interpreting a foreign language.

The user manual is your best friend here. Most codes relate to battery voltage issues, brush motor problems, or safety lockouts. You might be dealing with a sensor or internal wiring issue if the code doesn’t clear after a power cycle.

Loose connections at the control board or damaged wires along the frame can lead to intermittent failure. Use a multimeter to test connections or call in a technician if you're not comfortable with electrical diagnostics.

Floor Scrubber Leaves a Milky Film or Residue

It’s usually a chemical issue when your floors look worse after cleaning. More specifically, incorrect detergent dilution. Too much of a good thing can have the opposite intended effect!

Excess chemicals in the solution tank can leave behind a sticky or cloudy residue, especially on waxed surfaces. Double-check the dilution instructions on your cleaning solution. Commercial products are often far more concentrated than expected.

Make sure your recovery tank is clean while you’re at it. Dirty tanks can recirculate grime, especially if not rinsed out after each shift. Swap out old pads or brushes, too. They’ll just smear dirt and grime around at a certain point, even if you regularly clean them.

Unusual Noise or Vibrations During Operation

If your machine starts sounding like a lawnmower or vibrating like a jackhammer, don’t ignore it. Excessive noise and shaking usually mean something’s loose or worn down.

Start with the pad driver or brush. The imbalance will be obvious if it’s not centered properly or if the retaining bolt is loose. Check the caster wheels and rear tires for damage as well. Flat spots or debris can throw off your balance.

These are the easiest solutions for these types of floor scrubber problems. Otherwise, it could be an issue inside the machine. Worn bearings or damaged motor mounts can lead to increased vibration. These issues tend to get worse over time, so it’s best to address them early.

Machine Won’t Power On or Randomly Shuts Off

A floor scrubber that won’t start - or worse, cuts out mid-clean - can stop a job in its tracks. We’ll assume you’ve already checked that the battery is fully charged and properly connected. 

Or, that the power cord is in good shape for corded models. Look for exposed wires, cuts, or a faulty plug. Try plugging into a different outlet just to rule out wall-side issues.

The machine could be overheating if it starts but shuts down minutes later. Blocked air vents, a failing vacuum motor, or overworked circuitry can all cause this. Let the machine cool down, then inspect for clogged filters or fan obstructions.

In rare cases, you may have a bad key switch or a defective control board - both of which will need professional replacement. 

Preventive Maintenance Tips to Avoid These Problems

You know what they say - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. A little attention after each use, and a consistent schedule for deeper checkups, can save you from the frustration (and downtime) that comes with avoidable floor scrubber problems. Here are some tips:

• Rinse/Empty Recovery and Solution Tanks Daily: Drain both tanks completely after every job and give them a quick rinse. Lingering water or solution can lead to mold growth, mineral buildup, and unpleasant odors. Make sure you leave the lids open afterward for proper drying and airflow.
• Clean Pads, Brushes, and Squeegees After Use: Pads and brushes wear unevenly if they’re not cleaned and rotated regularly. Rinse them out and look for embedded debris. Squeegees get wiped them down with a damp cloth and checked for nicks or warping that could affect water pickup. Store them off the machine to prevent warping over time.
• Wipe Down the Machine Exterior: Dust, solution drips, and grime can build up on controls, wheels, and undercarriage areas. Use a damp cloth to quickly wipe down the machine and spot any early signs of leaks or loose fittings.
• Check Battery Water Levels: Low water levels can shorten the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Check them weekly and top up with distilled water only when needed - never overfill. Gel and AGM batteries don’t need water, but regular charging and inspection for corrosion on terminals is essential.
• Tighten and Inspect Fittings Weekly: Loose hoses, clamps, or electrical connections are common culprits behind leaks and electrical faults. Take a few minutes weekly to check everything from the vacuum hose to spray nozzles. 
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Some machines need periodic lubrication of wheel axles or pivot points. Refer to your manual’s schedule and stick to it. Dry joints can strain the motor and wear down mechanical parts.
• Replace Filters and Wear Components on Time: Filters clog over time and restrict airflow. Keeping them clean or replacing as recommended extends motor life. Pads/brushes should also be replaced based on usage, not just appearance.
• Store Indoors, Off Cold or Wet Floors: Storage in a cold garage or damp janitor’s closet will shorten machine lifespan. Store it in a controlled, dry environment and keep it off bare concrete using a mat or platform to avoid moisture wicking up into the base.
• Calibrate and Test Sensors Regularly: Don’t ignore those test procedures in the manual if your machine uses smart sensors or onboard diagnostics. Calibration ensures those systems give you accurate readings and don't misfire or throw unnecessary codes.

Keep a simple clipboard or spreadsheet showing when brushes were last replaced, filters cleaned, or battery water checked. This makes it easier for teams to stay on top of maintenance and catch small issues before they become major repairs.

But if you still need help troubleshooting, are ready to get the replacement parts you need, or want to talk about upgrading to the latest and great floor scrubber, the only thing left to do today is get in touch with the experts at SweepScrub!

Get in Touch With SweepScrub for One-on-One Support Addressing Any Floor Scrubber Problems!

We help cleaning professionals keep their machines running like new, whether you’re dealing with a minor issue or a major breakdown.

Our team understands the ins and outs of commercial floor equipment. We stock parts for every brand and model we stock, too, ranging from Tennant and Nobles to Clarke and Advance. You don’t have to troubleshoot issues on your own. Let us help you identify the root cause.

Not confident doing the repair yourself? We’ll connect you with authorized service providers or walk you through it step by step, depending on the machine and your location.

Sometimes, though, it’s just not worth fixing. If your scrubber is overworked, outdated, or breaking down more often than it’s running, our sales team can help you choose a new model that fits your facility’s size, floor type, and budget.

From industrial ride-on floor scrubbers to commercial walk-behind floor scrubbers and even floor sweeper scrubber machines, this is your one-stop shop for commercial floor cleaning. Reach out for one-on-one help, and let’s get your floors (and your operation) back in shape.

Parting Thoughts on Floor Scrubber Issues

Hopefully this overview of common floor scrubber problems helped you narrow it down to a specific issue holding your machine back from reliable, peak performance.

Floor scrubbers are powerful tools that keep your facility looking sharp, but like any machine, they need proper use, regular maintenance, and the right support when something goes wrong.

Our blog has additional resources on topics like how to clean floor scrubber or how to change pads on floor scrubber so you can keep your equipment running smoothly. 

Whether you're troubleshooting floor scrubber problems, stocking up on parts, or exploring new machines, SweepScrub is here to help every step of the way. Talk to our team and get personalized assistance today!