The RX-20 was a machine I used exclusively for most of my carpet cleaning experience. The downfalls I found were things such as its inability to get into the corners, it's much heavier than a wand, and having a third cord getting in my way (or the odd time getting tangled up in the machine itself). And unless it was the crappy
Hydramaster truck mount that the boss had in his truck, the RX-20 didn't extract as well as a wand. If one purchases the 5 jet model, I always usually had to clean at least two of the orifices before each job. Sometimes they would clog during the job because of the grit flying around underneath the machine.
However, it does a much better overall cleaning job than a wand for sure, resulting in less manual labor. I would use it for sure in a commercial application. It's not worth it to use one in a residential setting, IMO.
I have been using a 15" Whittaker for about 6 months now and I find it to be a great machine for applying the solution and agitating the carpet before HWE. It pulls up a lot of dirt and hair that otherwise, a wand and even an RX-20 would leave in the carpet. I haven't used it that often on residential carpet but the little I have done has worked great. A Whittaker is lighter than an RX-20 and eliminates the requirement to pre-spray with a Hydroforce if one purchases the Whittaker model with the solution tank and sprayer included.
The one thing I question is which machine is more politically correct concerning agitation? And this may be a question for someone who is more knowledgeable.
The RX-20 agitates, rinses and extracts simultaneously after the pre-spray is applied with a Hydroforce. The Whittaker applies solution and agitates the carpet which can then be followed by HWE separately. Which process is more effective?
Another rotary machine that I haven't used, but have witnessed the results of, is the Rotovac. It would be useful for commercial as well.
IMO, the Whittaker would be a better machine to use in a residential setting than the RX-20 and can also excel in commercial settings. I did use the RX-20 in the beginning of my experience but it wasn't my company and not my choice either.
Oh yes, the
Prochem Icaps would be sufficient only in a residential setting. One can only purchase one type of brush (to my knowledge) and it would be effective at removing some hair and agitating the pre-spray into the carpet. I've used it in commercial applications and it pales in comparison to the Whittaker, of which you can purchase various levels of brushes in addition to the capability of rotating the brushes for longevity.
I hope that is helpful. I'm still learning more about various machines as well.
