Nilfisk-Advance Challenges Tennant’s ec-H2O™ System Claims: The Unveiling Truth
In a continued saga of industry scrutiny, Nilfisk-Advance, a renowned manufacturer of professional floor cleaning
equipment, has released its third independent study focusing on Tennant’s ec-H2O™ cleaning performance. The results of
these tests, which measured the efficiency of ec-H2O™ against plain tap water, once again indicate no discernible
difference in cleaning performance.
Scientific Lens on ec-H2O™ System
The study utilized Hucker’s soil, an industry-recognized soil standard devoid of petroleum products, to assess the
cleaning capabilities of ec-H2O™ compared to plain tap water. Surprisingly, the results showed identical performance
levels, further challenging Tennant’s claims that ec-H2O™ acts as a potent cleansing agent.
In May 2011, Michael Fenger, General Manager, Product Marketing, EMEA/APAC for Nilfisk-Advance, expressed his views on
the matter. He stated, “These current test results complete the scientific picture showing that ec-H2O™ performs no
better and no different than plain tap water when used in a commercial floor scrubber.”
A History of Controversy
This recent study follows two prior independent tests commissioned by Nilfisk-Advance, both yielding similar outcomes.
The first test, using ASTM D4488 soil, demonstrated that ec-H2O™ water exhibited no superior performance compared to
plain tap water. Additionally, it suggested that when cleaning with ec-H2O™, the scrubber’s effectiveness diminished
compared to using tap water and detergent. The second test focused on ATP reduction, revealing that ec-H2O™ achieved the
same ATP reduction level as plain tap water.
Nilfisk-Advance’s Stance
Anders Terkildsen, Executive Vice President, EMEA Sales for Nilfisk-Advance, stated, “In light of the cumulative,
independent industry testing by Nilfisk-Advance and others, we expect that Tennant will cease its unfounded claims that
ec-H20™ acts like a ‘powerful cleansing agent/detergent’ when used in a commercial floor scrubber.”
Scrub n Shine’s Perspective
In the midst of this industry dispute, Scrub n Shine, a respected player in the field, offers its perspective. While
acknowledging the prowess of both Nilfisk-Advance and Tennant in manufacturing quality equipment, Scrub n Shine
emphasizes the importance of using the right industrial chemicals alongside advanced cleaning technologies. The company
believes that these “independent” tests might carry a competitive undertone but underscores the necessity of considering
varied perspectives.
The industry awaits Tennant’s response, which may involve counterstatements regarding Nilfisk-Advance’s quality control
and its recent acquisitions.
For a nuanced discussion about your specific cleaning needs, contact us. At Scrub n Shine, we leverage
our expertise to guide you through the intricacies of choosing the right cleaning solutions for your unique situation.