The Hoover FloorMate: A Review of the Popular Hoover Floor Cleaning Appliance

The Hoover FloorMate: A Review of the Popular Hoover Floor Cleaning Appliance

What is the Hoover FloorMate?

The Hoover FloorMate is a popular electric floor cleaner made by Hoover. It is designed to make mopping floors easier and more effective. The FloorMate has a unique spin scrub brush system that scrubs and cleans hard floors by combining a brush roll and Hoover cleaning solution. It can clean tile, vinyl, sealed wood floors, laminate, linoleum and more.

Some key features of the Hoover FloorMate include:

  • SpinScrub technology uses a rotating brush roll to clean floors
  • Removable brushes for easy cleaning
  • Dual tanks keep clean and dirty water separate
  • Low profile base reaches under furniture
  • Easy empty dirty water tank
  • 20 foot power cord
  • Onboard tools like an upholstery tool, grout brush and crevice tool

The FloorMate comes in several different models like the Deluxe, SpinScrub, Wet/Dry and Hard Floor Cleaner. The main differences are the included accessories and cleaning features.

How Does the Hoover FloorMate Work?

The Hoover FloorMate uses a unique spin scrubbing system to both wash and lightly scrub hard floors. Here is an overview of how it works:

1. Fill clean water tank with Hoover floor cleaning formula and water. This separates from the dirty water tank.

2. Turn on the FloorMate and lower to the floor. The brushes will start spinning.

3. The brushes lightly scrub the floor and the cleaning solution is sprayed out.

4. The suction function will remove the dirty water into the separate dirty water tank.

5. Cleaning solution continues spraying out during use to keep the brushes wet.

6. When the clean water tank is empty or the dirty tank is full, they can easily be removed, emptied, rinsed and replaced.

The spinning brushes combined with the Hoover cleaning solutions powerfully lift dirt while lightly scrubbing floors. The squeegee suction then removes all the dirty water, leaving floors clean.

What Floors Can the Hoover FloorMate Clean?

The Hoover FloorMate is designed for hard floor surfaces. It works best on:

  • Tile floors
  • Vinyl floors
  • Laminate floors
  • Sealed hardwood floors
  • Linoleum floors
  • Marble floors
  • Stone floors

The brush rolls and suction provide effective cleaning while being gentle enough not to damage the floor. Always check the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations before using the FloorMate. Make sure to test an inconspicuous area first.

Some models also have a hard floor wand attachment for cleaning into corners and edges. An upholstery tool can clean area rugs.

The Hoover FloorMate should NOT be used on unsealed wood floors or carpeting. The brushes and water could damage these softer surfaces.

How to Use the Hoover FloorMate

Using the Hoover FloorMate is quick and easy:

1. Fill the clean water tank with Hoover floor cleaner solution and water up to the fill line.

2. Attach the tanks onto the FloorMate and plug into an outlet.

3. Press the on/off switch to turn on the FloorMate. The brushes will start spinning.

4. Slowly push the FloorMate forward and pull back over the area you want to clean. The brushes will scrub and the cleaning solution will wash the floor.

5. Work in 3-5 ft sections for best results. Slightly overlap passes.

6. When the clean water tank is empty, turn off the machine and refill the tank.

7. Empty the dirty water tank when full and rinse out.

8. Replace the tanks and continue cleaning the floors.

9. When finished, rinse the brushes and tanks thoroughly to prevent buildup.

Always refer to the instruction manual for your specific FloorMate model. Some important tips include:

– Avoid excessive back and forth motions in one area
– Do not use on unfinished, oiled or waxed wooden boards
– Use only Hoover cleaning solutions
– Rinse tanks & brushes after use
– Let floors fully dry before allowing traffic

Hoover FloorMate Cleaning Solutions

Hoover makes specialized floor cleaning solutions for use in the FloorMate:

  • Hoover FloorMate Detergent – For everyday cleaning needs. Safely deep cleans without leaving residue.
  • Hoover FloorMate Hard Floor Cleaner – Designed for sealed hard floors. Conditions floors while cleaning.
  • Hoover FloorMate Disinfectant – Kills 99.9% of germs while cleaning hard floors.
  • Hoover FloorMate Sanitizing Solution – Eliminates odors and sanitizes floors.
  • Hoover FloorMate Whitening Formula – Brightens and removes dull spots from floors.

Always use a Hoover cleaning solution designed specifically for the FloorMate. Read the instructions carefully and follow the dilution ratios. Using other cleaners, like bleach or vinegar, could damage the machine.

Maintaining the Hoover FloorMate

To keep your FloorMate running optimally:

– Rinse the tanks, hoses and brushes after each use. This prevents buildup of dirt, soap scum and mineral deposits.

– Remove brushes periodically and rinse thoroughly. Check for any strings or debris caught in them.

– Only use original Hoover FloorMate cleaning solutions. Others can clog tubes or damage parts.

– Check the squeegee for any nicks or wear. Replace if needed.

– Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth.

– Only use Hoover authorized replacement parts.

– Disconnect and empty tanks when not in use. Do not store with solution inside.

Performing regular maintenance will maximize performance and extend the life of your FloorMate. Always consult the owner’s manual for full maintenance instructions.

Hoover FloorMate Troubleshooting

In some cases, the FloorMate may not function properly. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Not Picking Up Water
– Squeegee is clogged – Clean squeegee inlet
– Squeegee is worn – Replace squeegee
– Filter screen is dirty – Remove and rinse filter
– Hose is kinked – Straighten hose

Not Dispensing Solution
– Tank is empty – Refill clean water tank
– Tube is kinked – Straighten tubing
– Clog in tubes – Flush tubes with water
– Pump filter needs cleaning

Brushes Not Spinning
– Blockage in brush chamber – Remove debris
– Belt is broken – Replace belt
– Faulty motor – Contact for repair

Leaking Water
– Tanks not attached properly – Securely attach tanks
– Tanks are cracked – Replace tanks
– Internal hoses leaking – Check and reattach hoses

Floors Not Cleaning Well
– Brushes worn – Replace brushes
– Improper cleaning solution – Only use Hoover formulas
– Hard water buildup – Clean tanks and brushes

Always unplug the FloorMate before doing any troubleshooting. Contact Hoover support if problems persist after trying the solutions. They can help diagnose any underlying issues.

Hoover FloorMate Accessories

Some handy accessories are available for the Hoover FloorMate:

  • Hoover FloorMate Replacement Brushes – The brushes wear down over time. Replace annually.
  • Hoover FloorMate Hard Floor Wand – Cleans hard-to-reach areas and corners.
  • Hoover FloorMate Upholstery Tool – For gently cleaning couches, chairs, rugs and auto interiors.
  • Hoover FloorM