Drying after extraction

[tonakis]

Just wanted to see how you guys dry carpets and seats after hot water extraction. I just started and did a friend's car - it came out beautifully. The only thing is drying, it takes a lot of time. I know some people use blowers, but I don't think at this point this is feasible for me as I have to run the generator (in case no power is available).

So I just wanted to see some input from people with more experience. Thanks in advance!

[(901)]

^^^ Its for occasions like this I hope you didn't throw all your cotton towels away

Start by extracting as much water as possible and then grad 4 or 5 Cotton towels and start rubbing the carpet with as much pressure as you have

After you have done this, re vacume and applie those stripes that I see so many ppl do if thats what you prefer. Then, start the car with the emergency brake in place and the heat on max temp/ Floor

I ussually tackle the carpets first when its cool outside like it is now. Gives me more time to allow the carpets to dry + I can keep my eye on the car to make sure "The Engine Doesn't Overheat & No One Steals The Car"

PS. Also leave a door cracked a bit or better yet have a spare key incase you get locked out

[Tex Star Detail]

Agree with the above. When the weather is cool/cold, I start with shampooing/extracting. Run the car, heater on max on floor or on seats/floor. Always leave a door cracked or window cracked to so moisture can get out. When I run a car, one door stays open at all times. I don't want to get locked out while the car is running.

[Beemerboy]

Plus one on the above info the heater is your friend, one thing to remember is if its cold outside..crack the window just a tad, so there is no moisture build up in the car

[tonakis]

Thanks to all of you guys for your opinion. I don't know how I didn't think of the heater Great.

[(901)]

Originally Posted by tonakis

Thanks to all of you guys for your opinion. I don't know how I didn't think of the heater Great.

No problem tonakis

Got anymore questions, don't hesitate to ask

[tonakis]

Originally Posted by (901)

No problem tonakis

Got anymore questions, don't hesitate to ask

I will definitely have more, man, thanks for your help

[WuNgUn]

I'd prefer to air dry...
I wouldn't want any nasty lint balls from the towels geting in the carpet! Unless you have DARK towels?

[Beemerboy]

Originally Posted by WuNgUn

I'd prefer to air dry...
I wouldn't want any nasty lint balls from the towels geting in the carpet! Unless you have DARK towels?

the OP was wondering about in cold weather...and good cotton towels shouldn't lint, even so a quick vac takes care of that

[Mr. Clean]

Originally Posted by tonakis

Just wanted to see how you guys dry carpets and seats after hot water extraction. I just started and did a friend's car - it came out beautifully. The only thing is drying, it takes a lot of time. I know some people use blowers, but I don't think at this point this is feasible for me as I have to run the generator (in case no power is available).

So I just wanted to see some input from people with more experience. Thanks in advance!

Is your generator overtaxed, and that is why you don't (can't) use an air mover? Do you have one? A decent 3 amp 2-spd model will set you back @ $150, a 3 amp 3-spd model w/onboard GFCI outlets (you can daisy chain) runs @ $180.