➕Understanding the Differences Between Floor Machines: Low Speed, Dual Speed & Burnishers
When it comes to commercial floor care, using the right equipment is essential for achieving professional results. Not all floor machines are the same—understanding the difference between low speed machines, dual-speed polishers, and high-speed burnishers can save you time, money, and frustration.
At Monster Janitorial, we offer a full line of commercial-grade floor machines for every application.
✔ Low Speed Floor Machines
Often referred to as buffers, swing machines, or side-by-side floor machines, these operate at around 175 RPM and are primarily used for:
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Floor scrubbing
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Stripping old wax
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Light carpet shampooing
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Heavy-duty cleaning
They’re versatile and essential for deep-cleaning floors before applying new finish.
▶Shop Low Speed Floor Machines
✔ Dual Speed Floor Machines
Dual speed machines typically run at both 175 RPM and 300–350 RPM, making them suitable for both cleaning and polishing.
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Use low speed for scrubbing and stripping
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Switch to high speed for polishing or buffing
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Great for schools, retail, and maintenance contractors
This type of machine offers the best of both worlds, reducing the need for two separate units.
Recommended:
Pioneer Eclipse 250MGP17 – Dual Speed Floor Polisher
▶Shop Dual Speed Floor Machines
✔ High-Speed Burnishers
Burnishers operate at 1,000–2,000+ RPM and are used to produce a high-gloss, “wet look” finish on hard floors.
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Best for daily or weekly floor polishing
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Often used on VCT, terrazzo, and finished concrete
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Available in corded, battery, or propane models
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Many include dust control systems to reduce airborne debris
Unlike floor buffers, burnishers are not used for scrubbing — they are strictly polishing machines.
✨ Choosing the Right Floor Machine
Machine Type: Low Speed
RPM Range: ~175 RPM
Best For: Scrubbing, stripping
Typical Use: Deep cleaning, floor prep before finishing
Machine Type: Dual Speed
RPM Range: 175 & 300–350 RPM
Best For: Scrubbing and polishing
Typical Use: Versatile option for cleaning + light polishing
Machine Type: Burnisher
RPM Range: 1,000–2,000+ RPM
Best For: Polishing only
Typical Use: High-gloss finishes on VCT, terrazzo, or sealed floors
If you're unsure which is right for your facility, contact our expert team—we’ll walk you through your space, flooring type, and maintenance goals.
➕Shop Commercial Floor Machines
✔ View All Floor Machines
✔ Low Speed Buffers
✔ Shop Dual Speed Floor Machines
✔ High-Speed Burnishers
❓Need Help?
Email sales@monsterjanitorial.com or call 956-772-4842 — our equipment specialists are ready to help you choose the best floor machine for your needs.