Commercial Carpet Extractors

Choose according to the surfaces you clean, the size of the area and whether you need heated extraction:

• SM460 Series: A self-propelled, multi-surface machine for larger facilities that need carpet extraction, hard-floor scrubbing, grout cleaning and wet pickup. Cold-water and heated versions are available.
• SM350: A walk-behind carpet extractor for hotels, offices and larger carpeted areas. It has a 13.8-inch cleaning path, 160 PSI pump, 10.5-gallon solution tank and 8-gallon recovery tank.
• SM18H: A portable heated extractor for carpets, rugs, upholstery and vehicle interiors, with water heated up to 149°F and a 160 PSI pump.
• SM20: A compact wet/dry shampoo vacuum for smaller carpet, upholstery and general cleanup jobs.

For help matching a machine to your workload, contact the SANITMAX team before ordering.

Choose heated extraction when your work frequently involves oily soil, food residue, heavily used carpet or vehicle interiors. Heat can help an approved cleaning solution loosen this type of soil, but it does not replace correct chemistry, agitation and extraction technique.

Choose a non-heated machine for routine maintenance, jobs where heat is unnecessary, or materials whose care instructions limit water temperature. The SM18H heats water up to 149°F, while the SM460 Series offers both heated and cold-water configurations. Always follow the carpet or upholstery manufacturer’s care instructions.

Pump pressure describes how cleaning solution is delivered; it is not a measurement of vacuum suction. Effective extraction depends on the complete system, including solution delivery, agitation, vacuum performance and operator technique.

A wider cleaning path and larger tanks generally reduce passes and refill stops in hotels, offices and other larger carpeted areas. The SM350 combines a 13.8-inch path and 160 PSI pump with 10.5-gallon solution and 8-gallon recovery tanks. For stairs, vehicles, upholstery or smaller spaces, the more portable SM18H may be easier to position and operate.

Application depends on the model and attachment. The SM18H is designed for carpets, rugs, upholstery and vehicle interiors and includes a 4-inch detailing hand tool. The SM350 includes an upholstery tool for smaller fabric surfaces. The SM460 Series is the appropriate choice when the same operation also requires hard-floor scrubbing, grout cleaning or wet pickup.

Check the material’s care label, test an inconspicuous area and use only the tools and cleaning methods approved for your model.

There is no single drying time for every job. Drying depends on carpet construction, humidity, room temperature, ventilation, the amount of solution applied and the number of recovery passes.

Avoid oversaturating the carpet, make additional slow recovery passes without spraying solution, and increase airflow with HVAC, fans or air movers. Keep foot traffic off the area until the carpet is fully dry.

Use a liquid, low-foam detergent specifically labeled for carpet extractors and follow the detergent manufacturer’s dilution instructions. For the SM18H, use a fully water-soluble, non-corrosive solution that is compatible with hot-water extraction; the recommended pH range is 7–9.

Do not use dish soap, laundry detergent, bleach, chlorine, ammonia, solvents, powdered products or thick gels. These products can create excessive foam, clog internal lines or damage pumps, seals and heaters. If needed, place an approved defoamer in the recovery tank—not the solution tank.

Confirm the voltage, outlet access and circuit capacity at the job site before purchasing. The SM18H is rated for 110V/60Hz and uses separate 25-foot power cords for its heater and vacuum systems. It must be connected to grounded, properly protected outlets according to the product manual. The SM350 is rated for 120V/60Hz and has a 49-foot power cord.

Included tools differ by model and variant. Review the product page’s specifications and “What’s in the Box” section before ordering, especially if you need an upholstery tool, detailing wand or extended floor wand.

After each workday, empty and rinse the recovery tank, flush the solution system with clean water, and remove debris from filters, hoses, nozzles and tools. Do not leave mixed cleaning solution inside the machine during storage.

Regularly inspect power cords, hoses, seals, wheels, brushes and spray jets for wear or blockage. Allow cleaned components to dry before storage and follow the maintenance schedule in the machine’s manual. Consistent cleaning helps protect solution flow, vacuum performance and heater operation.

Buying is generally more practical when carpets or upholstery require regular cleaning, immediate spill response or consistent equipment availability. Ownership also allows staff to train on one machine and removes repeated pickup, return and rental scheduling.

Renting may still make sense for infrequent or one-time projects. Before deciding, compare expected cleaning frequency, rental and transportation costs, staff time, storage, maintenance and the purchase price. The best choice depends on your actual workload; a fixed savings or payback period cannot be guaranteed.

Eligible SANITMAX cleaning machines include up to a two-year manufacturer warranty from the original delivery date. Coverage applies to qualifying defects in materials or workmanship and eligible non-wear components. Consumables, normal wear, unauthorized modifications, misuse and improper maintenance are excluded. Always confirm the “Manufacturer Warranty” shown on the individual product page.

Shipping method and delivery timing depend on the product and destination. Return eligibility also depends on the reason, product condition, authorization, packaging and applicable fees. Review the Warranty Policy , Shipping Policy and Refund Policy before ordering. For product-specific assistance, contact SANITMAX.