13 · Floor Care

Carpet Vacuum Extractor

Also called Carpet cleaner · Carpet shampooer · Extractor

Injects cleaning solution into carpet and vacuums it straight back out — deep cleaning in one machine.

Electric (corded)
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Overview

A carpet extractor injects cleaning solution into the pile under pressure and vacuums it straight back out, lifting dirt that has worked down to the base of the carpet where a vacuum cannot reach.

Whole-room deep cleaning, heavily soiled or old carpets, hotels, offices and post-event clean-ups, and upholstery with the hand tool fitted.

Vacuum thoroughly first. An extractor is not a vacuum, and loose grit turns to mud the moment it gets wet.

Use low-foam extraction detergent only, and finish with a dry pass — vacuum, no spray — to pull the extra water back out. That one pass is the difference between a carpet dry by evening and one still damp the next day.

Best uses

  • Whole-room deep cleaning
  • Heavily soiled or old carpets
  • Hotels, offices and post-event clean-ups
  • Upholstery (with hand tool)

Troubleshooting

Weak suction or carpet left very wet

Checks to try, in order

  1. Empty the recovery tank — a float shuts off suction when it's full.
  2. Check the recovery tank lid is seated and its gasket sealed.
  3. Clear the hose and wand of blockages.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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No spray from the wand or jets

Checks to try, in order

  1. Fill the solution tank.
  2. Turn the pump switch on.
  3. Clean clogged spray jets and the solution filter.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Foam filling the recovery tank

Checks to try, in order

  1. You're using a high-foam detergent. Switch to low-foam extraction detergent and add defoamer to the recovery tank.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Tripped GFCI or breaker
  • Lock-off button
  • Damaged cord
  • Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
  2. Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
  3. Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
  4. If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Circuit overloaded
  • Undersized extension cord
  • Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

  1. Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
  2. Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
  3. Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

  1. Stop and unplug the tool.
  2. Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
  3. Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Safety

For electric (corded)

  • Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
  • Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
  • Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.

Videos & links

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