Sapphire vs Drimaster 3

icleancarpetz · Apr 23, 2017

both seem pretty cool to use.
The sapphire flow valve wrapped in Velcro bag down stream would seem like a pain to reach for and adjust the flow, unwrap and start again. If the flow is still not what you want, start over and unwrap the Velcro, adjust and wrap again. Whereas the Drimaster seems easier to work with as the flow adjustment conveniently is right at the grip area.

Desk Jockey · Apr 23, 2017

Thats difficult because everyone likes different things.

I prefer the Sapphire. I used to love the original Drimaster but I don't care for the extra length added to the handle.

Lee Stockwell · Apr 23, 2017

We like the Sapphires. Justin has a couple of almost new drimaster tools for sale

Russ T. · Apr 24, 2017

I've been happy with the DM3. The 2 gave me fits with the metal lips snagging all the time and $65 rebuilt kits got old quick.

They fixed the snag issue on the 3 and I've made some decent money with it.

I am however, setting up another rig and will be on the hunt for a good deal on the Sapphire.

I just like to try a few options before settling.

Does anyone know if RotoVac cleaned up the overspray issues with their upholstery tool?

Jim Pemberton · Apr 24, 2017

Before the Upholstery Pro was introduced, the Drimaster II (now III) was my favorite. I liked how light it is, and controlling the flow up by the head is convenient.

I would still use the tool if I didn't have an Upholstery Pro, and have used in in training for private classes where that is the tool of choice of my sponsor.

The reasons I prefer the Upholstery Pro are:

1. I like being able to choose between constant flow or a trigger
2. The Upholstery Pro creates the least distortion of natural fiber chenille and velvet fabrics
3. I like having the vacuum slot right on the cleaning tool
4. The recent change to a clear tool helps me see not only if I have removed enough moisture, but also residue. If knowing that your protector will work as you promised is important to you, you can't leave a "foamy mess" in the fabric and expect your protector to bond.

icleancarpetz · Apr 24, 2017

Good points Jim.

Drimaster 4 clear head would be awesome.

Drimaster 2 I had the same issue as Russ. Finally took the lips off altogether. Just not comfortable using it that way and replacement lips I've tried a few times.

Urrrg…decisions.

ronbeatty · Apr 24, 2017

I have three of the DriMaster 3's. They work great and the flow adjustment in the tool head makes it user friendly.

Desk Jockey · Apr 24, 2017

I have 6 of the Sapphire Upholstery Pro's tools. One of them the clear head. All of the with a "shorter, less awkward handle" than the "3".
:winky:

Seriously Raf, try them out. You might not like either. Just like a carpet wand everyone has their own opinion. Wrong...unless they agree with me, but their opinion regardless . :lol:

ruff · Apr 24, 2017

On fabrics that require a heavier flush and therefore higher PSI, the SS tool will over spray if lifted.

We can adjust to anything. However, the Dry Master is just too cumbersome. Had they shortened the handle it would have been much more ergonomic and easier to use.

Shorty · Apr 25, 2017

Desk Jockey said:
Thats difficult because everyone likes different things.

I prefer the Sapphire. I used to love the original Drimaster but I don't care for the extra length added to the handle.

Thorough;y agree with your statement, that's my thoughts exactly.

After buying DriMaster V2, I quickly sold it & kept on using my original DriMaster until I purchased the SS tool, then the HydroKinetic.

Ergonomics, I believe, are very important when working with a tool several hours a day for a living.

Yes, the SS, can be a PITA, UNTIL you know what you need, from there on, it's easy.

Just my thoughts on the matter.

PS::: Upholstery Pro; price down under?? AU$928.87

:yoda:

dealtimeman · Apr 25, 2017

I would have to agree with most, I wish the dm3 was shorter, and a bit skinnier overall as the tool cleans very well, just not conviene to use as it is now.

Lint Basket · Apr 25, 2017

I have the original dri-master 1 (white version) and the 3. Had the 2 but nothing but problems. Pemberton stated all the reasons my next tool will be the SS. Also the plastic used on the 3 is soft and can distort, especially without a vacuum relief, which it does not have. I still use my oldie #1 all the time still. Can't wait to upgrade.

Jim Pemberton · Apr 25, 2017

The part I like best about this debate is that we are comparing two great tools that have made upholstery cleaning safer and easier.

The two things that most assail an upholstery cleaner are fear and fatigue. With both of these tools, as well as the Hydrokinetic, CFR, and Hydry tools, both are far less of a factor than they once were.

We have come light years from the days where the choice was the Kleenrite or Prochem tool (still a good tool for "wet work" and stairs), with the accomanying fatigue and potential for overwetting.

GreenTechAgain · Apr 25, 2017

I have the SS Uph Pro and really like it. But, as I'm dragging the tool around it will change the flow - PITA.

My velcro holder does not have the loop like the one in the photo. Maybe if I add one, it will help?

icleancarpetz said:
both seem pretty cool to use.
The sapphire flow valve wrapped in Velcro bag down stream would seem like a pain to reach for and adjust the flow, unwrap and start again. If the flow is still not what you want, start over and unwrap the Velcro, adjust and wrap again. Whereas the Drimaster seems easier to work with as the flow adjustment conveniently is right at the grip area.

View attachment 71729 View attachment 71730

Glynn · Apr 25, 2017

We have a DM2, a DM3 & 2X SS's.
I actually prefer using the DM2 when it works correctly.
The SS imo is crap at detailing work.
The DM2&3 will out clean the SS imo, try recleaning with the DM over a cleaned piece the SS has just done.
However the tools we use most is the SS.

icleancarpetz · Apr 25, 2017

GreenTechAgain said:
I have the SS Uph Pro and really like it. But, as I'm dragging the tool around it will change the flow - PITA.

My velcro holder does not have the loop like the one in the photo. Maybe if I add one, it will help?

That's what I noticed and thought hmmm..

icleancarpetz · Apr 25, 2017

Guess the flow valve had to be engineered down stream because of copy infringement of DM?

Desk Jockey · Apr 25, 2017

It would likey just get in the way.

I personally never touch the flow. If I need major flushing on some standard care upholstery I'd switch to the Prochem.

Lee Stockwell · Apr 25, 2017

Don't DRAG a fine $500 tool...please.

Loren Egland · Apr 25, 2017

I have several tools to clean upholstery. Of those the three that get used are the internal jet PMF, the Rotovac Sheardry, and the Hydrokinetic. I don't like having to dial down my solution flow so I almost always grab the Hydrokinetic. I also like the full flush cleaning performance it provides.

Of course I could just be too old to teach new tricks to, after 32 years of using the HK.

ruff · Apr 25, 2017

I must be getting old, as I don't understand what's the big deal with opening the Velcro and reducing flow.

If one is religiously committed (as it seems) to not opening the Velcro, one can also achieve flow reduction by opening or closing, up to a certain degree, the vacuum release.

Or just get the lazy boy motorized valve control thingie.
Fred, when's the auction?

Desk Jockey · Apr 25, 2017

I swear I change the flow one in a hundred pieces.

Set it and foregettaboutit! :winky:

ruff · Apr 25, 2017

Desk Jockey said:
I swear I change the flow one in a hundred pieces.

.......

One in a hundert?
Poof.
Which takes you what (considering and all)?
A mighty six thousand years? :winky:

Cleanworks · Apr 25, 2017

Ofer Kolton said:
One in a hundert?
Poof.
Which takes you what (considering and all)?
A mighty six thousand years?

What caused the flood.

Desk Jockey · Apr 25, 2017

Ofer Kolton said:
One in a hundert?
Poof.
Which takes you what (considering and all)?
A mighty six thousand years?

Last year we were cleaning a hospital contract. They brought between 10-15 pieces a week. Everyone was busy with other work....just a couple of months to clean 100. :winky:

ruff · Apr 25, 2017

Cleanworks said:
What caused the flood.

Floods and pestilence is Marty's territory :winky:

Shorty · Apr 25, 2017

Ofer Kolton said:
Floods and pestilence is Marty's territory

I was told it was poor bladder control??

:yoda:

Shorty · Apr 25, 2017

Loren Egland said:
I have several tools to clean upholstery. Of those the three that get used are the internal jet PMF, the Rotovac Sheardry, and the Hydrokinetic. I don't like having to dial down my solution flow so I almost always grab the Hydrokinetic. I also like the full flush cleaning performance it provides.

Of course I could just be too old to teach new tricks to, after 32 years of using the HK.

Have to admit, I love my HydroKinetic.

My only regret is not listening to you a decade & more ago when you were espousing it's credentials on the original 4rums. :hopeless:

SamIam · Apr 25, 2017

Ok the only time I see flow problem is when the valve is going bad or we're cleaning upholstery and carpet and the same time. Have to keep an eye on it.

But generally if your cleaning you'll be able to see! And periodically make adjustments.

Loren Egland · Apr 27, 2017

ShortyDownUnder said:
Have to admit, I love my HydroKinetic.

My only regret is not listening to you a decade & more ago when you were espousing it's credentials on the original 4rums.

Yup.

.

I have sometimes wondered if it had not been a Steam Way tool and it was a Hydroforce tool as it is now, if it would get more play on these boards.

Or maybe some just felt foolish for having not used the Hydrokinetic decades ago instead of their conventional upholstery tools all those years when other dry tools were not yet available.

Or maybe because it is not the new thing on the block?

Sapphire vs Drimaster 3

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