New vs. Used Floor Scrubbers: Which Offers the Best ROI?

Quick Summary:

Wondering whether to invest in a new or used floor scrubber? The right choice depends on more than just your budget. This guide compares used floor scrubbers vs. new models by costs, lifespan, reliability, and cleaning schedules so you can easily compare ROI and feel confident about your purchase decision. 

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New vs. Used Floor Scrubbers At a Glance

If you’re in the business of buying a commercial floor scrubber for your facility, you know it’s a huge investment. Many shoppers gravitate towards the idea of investing in new machines over used, but are forced to reevaluate because of budget restraints. 

If you find yourself in that struggle, here’s some good news: new machines aren’t always better. In some cases, used machines can offer a better value for your company’s cleaning schedules and overall needs.  

Before we break down the best-use cases for buying used floor scrubbers vs. new, here’s an at-a-glance overview of some of the key buying factors of each:

When a New Floor Scrubber Makes Sense

A new floor scrubber isn’t always best, but it is a smarter purchase if you’re using your machine daily or for multiple cleaning shifts per day. Equipment downtime can get in the way of busy cleaning schedules, and new machines are generally more reliable than used models with older, worn-out parts.

Keeping downtime to a minimum is especially important if you work in high-traffic or high-risk environments. In retail settings, hospitals, or airports, cleanliness can’t be delayed. New floor scrubbers ensure performance is consistent, keeping cleanliness up to compliance standards and reducing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents.  

In addition to consistent performance, new floor scrubbers also come with the latest technology. From smart water and chemical dosing systems to ergonomic controls, these efficiency-boosting features aren’t always found on machines that were made just a few years earlier. 

If warranty protection is important to you, a new floor scrubber can save you from unexpected repair costs and boost your peace of mind. Unlike used machines, they also require less repairs over their first few years and minimal maintenance upfront. 

When a Used Floor Scrubber Is a Smart Buy

Choosing a used industrial floor scrubber is a great option if you're operating on a limited budget, but is it the right decision for your business? Aside from cutting costs by 30% - 60%, buying a used floor scrubber is a smart investment if you’re cleaning less than 5 times per week. 

A used machine with fewer cleaning cycles can last far longer than a used one being used everyday because it’s racking up less usage hours. In that case, the extra investment to buy a new machine over a used one is unnecessary because a used one can handle the lighter-duty job just as effectively. 

Along the same lines, used scrubbers are more useful in facilities under 25,000 square feet. Smaller spaces don’t demand the same heavy-duty run times that a large airport or warehouse does. You can get the cleaning power you need without overpaying for a new model.

One of the major downsides of buying used floor scrubbers vs. new is the maintenance unpredictability. By the time you acquire the machine, it’s likely the warranty has expired. If the scrubber breaks, you’ll be responsible for covering the repair costs. 

If you have an in-house maintenance team, that risk is hardly a problem. Your crew can keep the equipment in good condition without having to pay hundreds of dollars for basic repairs. 

The final scenario where used machines offer a greater advantage over new is when the equipment will only be used seasonally. If the scrubber you’re buying isn’t your primary cleaning machine and you only intend to use it during peak seasons or as an emergency back-up option, a used model is the better investment. Why spend up to 60% more on a new machine that will sit idle for most of the year?

Pros & Cons: Used vs. New Floor Scrubbers

Easily compare the pros and cons of used floor scrubbers vs. new using our side-by-side chart:

Total Cost of Ownership Comparison (TCO)

Buying industrial equipment isn’t a one-time cost. On top of the initial purchase, there are ongoing maintenance costs, repairs, and other operational expenses that can help you estimate what your machine will cost you during its expected lifetime.

While used commercial floor scrubbers cost less upfront, the TCO can add up quickly if you encounter frequent breakdowns and higher repair costs. Keep this in mind if you’re 

The bottom line: both used and new floor scrubbers can yield a strong ROI, but only when they’re used in the right conditions. If you’re unsure with which option is best for your needs, try comparing quotes on ScrubberShop. 

You can easily compare pricing on new and used floor scrubber units by model, price, dealer ratings, and more! Try it today for free to bring home a floor scrubber with the most value. 

FAQs: Used Floor Scrubber vs New