Commercial Steam Cleaners

What Is the Difference Between a Dry Vapor and a High-Pressure Steam Cleaner?

A dry vapor unit makes low-moisture steam from a continuously refilled boiler, while a high-pressure unit heats water on demand and pushes it out at a higher PSI. The Therma-Kleen Industrial 400 has a 1.5-gallon stainless steel boiler and 2-gallon reserve tank with continuous fill, reaches 370F at 170 PSI on a single 110 VAC outlet and weighs 84 lb. The Industrial XL1 makes about 55 lb/hr of 97%-dry steam at 365F and 165 PSI from a 20 kW element on 480V 3-phase power. The Ultra 250E delivers 250 PSI at up to 260F on 2.0 GPM.

Should a Commercial Steam Cleaner Be Electric or Propane?

Choose electric when the work is indoors or fuel is not allowed, and propane when you need the most pressure and heat and only have a standard outlet. The Ultra 250E and Ultra 600E (580 PSI at up to 260F on 1.5 GPM) run on 208/220/480 VAC 3-phase power and generate no fumes. The Ultra 1300 propane unit runs 1300 PSI at up to 340F on 2.2 GPM from a 200,000 BTU/hr LP-gas burner and needs only a 115 VAC outlet; Therma-Kleen sizes it for areas over 1,000 sq ft or heavier equipment cleaning. The Ultra 250 and Ultra 600 propane models draw 130,000 BTU/hr.

Which Portable Steam Cleaner Suits Light Commercial Work?

Portable steamers on 120V power suit restaurants, hotels and detailing shops that move between small jobs. The Vapamore MR-1000 Forza uses a 1900 W element to hold 6 bar (90 psi) with continuous steam flow and weighs 45 lb. The MR-750 Ottimo builds 5.2 bar (75 psi) and runs up to 3 hours of continuous steam per fill at 20 lb. The Dapper Supply DP-CSM1225 combines steam up to 230°F with extraction and a wet/dry vacuum on a 2-gallon tank.

What Else Goes With a Steam Cleaner?

Steam works best after heavy grease is loosened, so pre-spray it first: JANITORI No.71 Degreaser is applied by spray, left 30-60 seconds, then steamed, wiped or rinsed. Check what ships in the box before you compare models; the Industrial 400 includes a 15 ft stainless steel hose and gun, wand extensions and brass, nylon and stainless brushes. For the floor around the work, see floor scrubbers and commercial vacuums.