The Parts Professor on Squeegees

Ok, last month we talked about our favorite products, let’s look at the flip side.

One of mine and also Guy’s least favorite things are SQUEEGEES.

Nothing is more frustrating than ordering the part number from the manual, wait 2 to 7 days to get them, only to find out they are the wrong size! Then wait another 2 to 7 days hoping you’ll get the right one this time.

By this time (up to 14 days later), the floors are filthy, your customer is pissy, you’re pissy, we’re all pissy.

You don’t need the Parts Professor to tell you that being pissy is no fun.

I’m blaming the manufacturer. They’re all guilty. We love them, but sometimes we love to hate them too. 

Check out this example, the 5680:

(3) Different size machines, (4) different size of squeegees, at least (3) different materials, and (2) Front or rear squeegees.

Let’s do the math           3 x 4 x 3 x 2 = 72            AKA 72 ways to screw it up...

Then to complicate things further most manufacturers have a different parts page for the four different sizes!

Don’t know about you but I usually pick the first page I see with squeegee on it (5680 squeegee). Most people do not even realize the machines could come in different size than the one they have.

Ok I’m done complaining. The Parts Professor is here to help you proactively plan your parts. If you can get these two questions right (trust me, you can do it), you won’t end up with us all being pissy!

#1 What Material Do I Need?

Red Blade: Multi-purpose. It is consistent, conforms to the floor and provides desired results in a wide range of conditions. It is durable and performs great in wet abrasion applications.

Prematek: Multi-purpose. It is consistent, conforms to the floor and provides superior results in a wide range of conditions. It is durable and performs great in wet abrasion applications. Competitively priced over most Red Blades.

Chemical Resistant Urethane: It is ideal for oil and chemical resistance and rough surfaces. Has a long service life, performs well with organic and petroleum-based oils.

Economy Gum Rubber: Works best on light traffic areas with smooth even floors. It is inexpensive with natural material and fillers.

#2 What Size Do I Have?

A: Order the blades you ordered before if they worked. If you bought them from us we’ll have it on file.

B: If you have both Model Number and Serial Number, you can look it up or send that information to RENU Supplies and we’ll take care of finding the right squeegee for you.

C: Look on the squeegee assembly and see if there are any #s stamped in it, use that as your reference number.

D: Take pics of the machine and squeegee email it to me at orders@renusupplies.com or you can even text them to me at 616-648-6198.

E: Measure your old blade length and width, and count the number of holes if there are any (this believe it or not helps us really zoom in on the right replacement part).

F: I still know how to use the fax machine, if you’d like you can draw a picture and I’ll figure it out. FAX to 616-808-2482

G: Call me at 616-808-2481 or email questions to orders@renusupplies.com

I’m here to save YOU some time and headaches. Look forward to hearing from you.