Equipment for starting a carpet cleaning business

Summary

This video script offers a comprehensive guide for aspiring carpet cleaners, detailing the essential equipment and methods for starting a carpet cleaning business. The host emphasizes the importance of good cleaning chemistry and demonstrates the hot water extraction process using a portable machine, which is a popular choice for those with limited budgets or working in high-rise buildings. The script also touches on expanding the business, including cleaning other surfaces like tiles and upholstery, and the significance of building a strong customer base through quality service and positive reviews.

Takeaways

• 🚀 Starting a carpet cleaning business can be done with varying budgets, from portable to truck-mounted systems.
• 💰 The initial investment can range from as low as $500 for basic equipment to upwards of $20,000 for a truck mount setup.
• 🛠️ Portable cleaning equipment is a common starting point, allowing for growth into truck-mounted systems as the business expands.
• 🔍 The process of carpet cleaning involves vacuuming, applying cleaning solution, scrubbing if necessary, and then hot water extraction.
• 🧪 The importance of using the right cleaning chemistry is emphasized for effective carpet cleaning results.
• 🕒 Letting the cleaning solution sit for a recommended time, typically around 10 minutes, is part of the cleaning process.
• 💧 Hot water extraction involves spraying hot water onto the carpet and extracting it with a machine, using both a solution and vacuum hose.
• 📈 Starting with a simple neutral base cleaner and adding citrus for greasy carpets is suggested for beginners.
• 📋 The total cost for starting a carpet cleaning business with portable equipment is around $1,500, including the machine and necessary accessories.
• 🏢 Portable equipment is suitable for various settings, including high-rise buildings where truck-mounted systems are impractical.
• 📈 The potential to earn between $70 to $100 per hour part-time demonstrates the earning potential of a carpet cleaning business.
• 🔄 Customer satisfaction and repeat business are key to the success of a carpet cleaning business, emphasizing the importance of quality service.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The video script is about starting a carpet cleaning business and the equipment needed for it.

What are the two main types of carpet cleaning equipment mentioned in the script?

The two main types of carpet cleaning equipment mentioned are portable units and truck-mounted units.

What is the difference between using a portable unit and a truck-mounted unit for carpet cleaning?

A portable unit is more mobile and suitable for smaller jobs, while a truck-mounted unit provides more suction and pressure, suitable for larger jobs and is often used by more established businesses.

What is the first step in the carpet cleaning process described in the script?

The first step in the carpet cleaning process is vacuuming the carpet to remove loose dirt and debris.

What is the importance of using a pre-conditioner in the carpet cleaning process?

A pre-conditioner helps to break down and loosen dirt and stains on the carpet fibers, making the cleaning process more effective.

What is the role of a scrubbing brush in the carpet cleaning process?

A scrubbing brush is used to agitate the carpet, ensuring that the cleaning solution penetrates deep into the fibers and aids in the removal of dirt and stains.

What is hot water extraction in the context of carpet cleaning?

Hot water extraction is a carpet cleaning method where hot water mixed with cleaning solution is sprayed onto the carpet, then extracted using a vacuum hose to remove dirt and moisture.

What is the recommended time for letting the cleaning solution sit on the carpet before extraction?

The recommended time for letting the cleaning solution sit on the carpet before extraction is around 10 minutes.

What are some additional services that can be offered using the same carpet cleaning equipment?

Additional services that can be offered using the same equipment include tile and grout cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and car interior cleaning.

What is the estimated cost of starting a carpet cleaning business with a portable unit as described in the script?

The estimated cost of starting a carpet cleaning business with a portable unit is around $1,500.

What advice does the script give regarding expanding the carpet cleaning business?

The script advises starting with a portable unit, learning the business, and then considering an upgrade to a truck-mounted unit as the business grows and client base expands.

What is the importance of customer reviews and reputation in building a carpet cleaning business?

Customer reviews and a good reputation are crucial for attracting more clients and maintaining a steady flow of business in the carpet cleaning industry.

Outlines

00:00

🚚 Starting a Carpet Cleaning Business with a Portable Unit

This paragraph discusses the essentials of starting a carpet cleaning business, focusing on the choice between a truck mount and portable cleaning units. It emphasizes that the decision largely depends on the budget, with truck mounts being more expensive and suitable for those with substantial capital. The speaker shares personal experience starting with a portable unit, which is more common for beginners. The process of carpet cleaning using hot water extraction is described, including vacuuming, applying cleaning solution, scrubbing, and extraction. The importance of good chemistry in cleaning solutions is highlighted, as it significantly affects the outcome of the cleaning. The paragraph also mentions a previous video on moisture cleaning and the equipment needed for a cost-effective start-up.

05:01

💧 The Hot Water Extraction Process and Equipment Costs

The speaker continues to detail the hot water extraction process, explaining the use of a portable cleaning unit with a heater and its capabilities. They discuss the importance of the right cleaning solution and chemistry, suggesting starting with a neutral base cleaner and possibly adding citrus for greasy carpets. The cost of the portable unit is mentioned as approximately $1,500, which can be financed through certain providers. The versatility of portable units is highlighted, noting their use in high-rise buildings and by experienced cleaners. The paragraph also touches on the potential earnings from carpet cleaning, suggesting rates between $70 to $100 per hour, and the scalability of the business from part-time to full-time. Additional services like tile and upholstery cleaning are mentioned, along with the suggestion to start with a limited budget and learn the business before investing in a truck mount.

10:02

📞 Building a Carpet Cleaning Business with Customer Satisfaction

In the final paragraph, the focus shifts to the business aspect of carpet cleaning, emphasizing customer satisfaction as the key to a successful business. The speaker advises on the importance of having a good vacuum and the quality of service provided. They encourage viewers to like, subscribe, and comment with any questions, highlighting the joy of providing a service that visibly pleases customers. The paragraph concludes with a reminder of the gratification that comes from transforming a customer's space and the potential for a rewarding business in carpet cleaning.

Keywords

💡Carpet Cleaning Business

A carpet cleaning business involves providing services to clean and restore the appearance of carpets. In the video, the theme revolves around starting such a business, discussing the necessary equipment, budget considerations, and the process of carpet cleaning.

💡Equipment

Equipment refers to the tools and machinery required for carpet cleaning. The script mentions various types of equipment, such as portable machines, truck mounts, and brushes, which are essential for the business and are discussed in the context of different budget levels.

💡Hot Water Extraction

Hot water extraction is a carpet cleaning method where hot water mixed with cleaning solution is sprayed onto the carpet, then extracted using a machine. It is highlighted in the script as the primary cleaning process, with details on how it's performed using portable equipment.

💡Portable

A portable refers to a type of carpet cleaning machine that is not permanently installed in a vehicle but can be easily moved and used in various locations. The script emphasizes starting with a portable machine due to its affordability and suitability for beginners.

💡Truck Mount

A truck mount is a more advanced and powerful carpet cleaning system that is installed in a van or truck. The script mentions it as an option for those with a larger budget and as an upgrade for those looking to expand their business.

💡Chemistry

In the context of carpet cleaning, chemistry refers to the cleaning solutions and chemicals used in the process. The script underlines the importance of good chemistry for effective cleaning results and mentions different types of cleaners, such as neutral base cleaners and citrus-based solutions for greasy carpets.

💡Agitation

Agitation is the process of scrubbing or working the cleaning solution into the carpet fibers to loosen dirt and stains. The script describes agitation as a crucial step in the cleaning process, using brushes or machines to ensure the solution penetrates the carpet.

💡Extraction

Extraction is the final step in the hot water extraction process where the dirty water and cleaning solution are removed from the carpet. The script details how this is done using a wand connected to the cleaning machine, which sprays and vacuums simultaneously.

💡Budget

Budget refers to the amount of money one is willing to invest in starting a carpet cleaning business. The script provides different scenarios based on budget size, from starting with a low-cost portable machine to investing in a truck mount for a higher initial cost.

💡Moisture Cleaning

Moisture cleaning is a specific type of carpet cleaning that the script mentions as something the presenter has experience with, although the main focus is on hot water extraction. It is used to illustrate the presenter's broader knowledge of cleaning techniques.

💡Revenue

Revenue in the script refers to the income potential of a carpet cleaning business. It is mentioned in the context of charging customers and the potential hourly rate one can earn, highlighting the business's profitability.

Highlights

Starting a carpet cleaning business with a focus on equipment and budget.

Differences between truck-mounted and portable carpet cleaning equipment.

The importance of budget in determining the type of equipment to purchase.

Process of carpet cleaning using hot water extraction with portable equipment.

The necessity of vacuuming before carpet cleaning.

Using a pre-spray and pre-conditioner for effective carpet cleaning.

The role of chemistry in achieving quality carpet cleaning results.

Scrubbing carpets for areas that are heavily soiled.

The extraction process using a wand and hoses.

Starting with a simple neutral base cleaner and adjusting for different carpet types.

Adding citrus for cleaning greasy carpets.

Cost of starting a carpet cleaning business with portable equipment around $1,500.

Options for financing and payment plans for equipment.

The versatility of portable equipment for various cleaning scenarios.

The potential income from part-time carpet cleaning.

Importance of customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Expanding services to include tile and upholstery cleaning.

Advice on building a business foundation before investing in a truck mount.

The value of online presence and customer reviews for business growth.

Encouragement to start with a limited budget and learn the business before scaling up.

Transcripts

[Music]

what's up guys YouTube Facebook anybody

out there that's looking to start a

carpet cleaning business you just don't

know what to do how does it get to be on

what equipment to buy I'm making this

video because I did get a question on

one of my videos on exactly this you

know what they're confused they don't

know what the equipment to buy well it

all depends on your budget really you

know if you got twenty thousand dollars

of spit spans and you want to go hot

water to extraction then you go off and

you go ahead and get yourself a van and

go ahead and get a truck mount you know

but basically the process and the way to

go about cleaning carpets is it's the

same way as using a portable you know

except you got a big generator pulling

out a lot more suction and a lot more

pressure in the hoses in the big truck

mounts but on your portable which many

people start out with most people start

out with they kind of start doing this

and then they figure they want to expand

their business and move up to the truck

mount but I started out with the

portable okay I also did a little

moisture cleaning I did a video on

though mostly cleaning already and

showed the park process and the

equipment you can buy for five hundred

dollars or less to start your own carpet

cleaning business I'm doing a little

moisture cleaning this process here is

hot water extractions which means you

are spraying down your hot water onto

the carpet and you're extracting it with

the one okay this is your scrubbing and

these are your hoses this is your

solution hose and this is your vacuum

hose they hooked up to your your

portable here okay so the process would

be

is to first vacuum the carpet if the

customer hasn't already vacuumed it

already it's just a good habit to get

into some cases there may not be much

there you know so you might want to skip

that process but in most cases vacuum so

first you'd want to get your pop up

spray and add your solution your

cleaning solution your pre spread

pre-conditioner okay you get a good

cleaner

chemistry is everything without good

chemistry your carpets are not going to

turn out as well as they could have okay

so that's a whole another subject on

what the body is a lot of great products

out there okay so basically you put your

cleaning solution in the pump up sprayer

and you spray your carpet you spray the

whole room okay get a nice saturation on

it all right sometimes you don't need to

scrub the majority of times you're gonna

have to at least scrub some areas that

are really soiled so if you don't got an

orator you don't have a a buffer you can

go ahead and one of these brushes right

here you know and you scrub your carpet

you scrub the bad areas agitation really

gets that solution into the fiber and

really lets it it really helps out with

the cleaning okay you let it sit for

whatever the recommended time is for

your your a solution I usually let it

sit around 10 minutes okay and then you

have all your hoses hooked up and your

wand okay you turn on your machine and

you extract first you put your water

into the machine your uh your rinsing

age it's a uh if you're gonna use a

rinse

but you fill it up with hot water II

okay

and then you spray you pull the handle

spray and pull back and as you're

spraying and you go over where you spray

it it pulls up the the clean this

doesn't mess with cleans your carpets ok

so you do the whole room like that the

more you do it the more better you get

at it the morning you know how much

solution to spray in certain areas what

solutions to use and stuff like that I

would go with the simple neutral base

cleaner to start out with until you can

know the difference between carpets

whether it's natural fibers and thick

and also add a citrus for carpets that

have a lot of a lot of oil grease in a

greasy carpets it's a citrus a lot of

citrus products out there so you mix

that in here to you know to be the best

ingredient for the carpets you clean it

so that's basically all you need and

this is my supervisor over here rowdy

what's up Roddy Roddy say hi ok ok ok so

basically that's all you need so the

cost of this portable here

I think costed me a total about $1,500

ok you can get it through rotovac and

you can get it my payments also alright

if you got credit you can get it on

payments awesome you can't have two so

this is the process it's very simple

this is hot rodder extraction process

this one actually has a heater in it ok

and it actually cleans it's got 500 psi

but it don't

it's got probably 300 if that but really

if you got the right cleaning soon the

right chemistry

it'll work just fine and there's coming

that's all they use is portables

especially in the city they're doing hi

high-rises you know doing office

buildings in in tall tall buildings if

they can't have a truck mount and

pouring hoses all the way out there so

this is all they use and they have

multiple multiple multiple employees you

know out there doing this I think a guy

was doing this for 15 years and he just

bought a truck now and he's one of the

biggest carpet cleaners in LA so I'm not

sure I don't forget the name but I watch

the video a while back so this is what I

started out with okay and you spend a

little bit more time on get it get it

looking good get the carpet looking good

in the customer does not care what you

bring into the house you know they don't

don't care as long as the carpus look

great when you leave they don't care so

this is one way of doing it about 1,500

bucks

you can have your carpet cleaning

business it's all this literally that's

all it is and you can go to making a

hundred dollars and now between 70 to

100 dollars an hour $70 an hour there's

a decent wage I think to anybody if

you're doing it as a part-time hustle if

you got a full-time job and you want to

do this on the side you try to book a

job a couple jobs a week you know two

three jobs a week until you get the more

reputation and more referrals and it's

just going to build up a time you just

can't quit you have to keep pushing keep

pushing keep pushing keep satisfying

your customers they'll call you again

you can also clean tile with this too

okay you can you can buy a spinner

what's your they're they very thing

between 500 bucks and 1500 bucks for a

good spinner but you can get this I

think Gekko extracting it looks kind of

like a like a wand but you do all your

pre agitate you play your solution

do a lot of pre agitation on the tile

and grout and he just suck it up with

the wand you know if you got the right

chemistry the towel come out great

so you can do a lot you can do

upholstery with this couches you know

cars are these you have to get longer

hose if you need to but great product to

start out with if you're if you're

working with a limited budget and just

to get you to learn the business before

you invest in a truck mount you know

figure out whether or not even like

doing it or if you want to pursue right

so I wouldn't suggest going off and

jumping right into a truck mount before

you get any clientele together before

you have a business model that's got

some sort of foundation right website

google reviews so basically that's all

different subjects if you soon as you

start doing car to clean go ahead and

get your Google my business listed and

as you see one of your customers to give

you a review it's gonna really help you

out it might take a year to but that's

what's gonna keep your phone ringing so

I hope this helps out with the what the

fellow that was asking me what they need

to get started you need a vacuum which I

do not show here anyway acting world the

better the vacuum I mean it's nice to

have a good vacuum you know pulls up

more I should have turned on the flash

on this I was on bummer a little better

okay well anyway well thanks for

watching please like subscribe comment

and let me know if you have any

questions okay it's a really great

business to get into if you really like

pleasing other customers and

and seeing the reaction on them I mean

you're doing a service there's nothing

better than doing a service for somebody

okay you're not selling me anything you

know knocking on a door trying to sell

him something that they weren't even

thinking about buying in the first place

that's a hell of a job somebody looked

down their carpets filthy and you walked

up and say I can clean your carpets for

you for this much you know when you're

done they're gonna be really happy to

sell all right I'll see you next video

I can said subscribe and I'll make more

videos like this have a good one

[Music]