we are back to going off on tangents again... carpet cleaners have been around for 30 years plus so how come its just now that we need to buy into all these machine chemicals etc... its all about marketing not truckmounts what chemicals etc the general public want there carpet cleaned thats why we are carpet cleaners they could not care what or how we do it 
.... simples 
I know what you are saying Jamie and you have to start off and not over extend yourself with the latest kit/gadgets etc when you start. BUT, you do need to keep reinvesting in these things as you make more money so that you progress and develop a competitive edge. You are in competition.
probley the best advive so far above ...... its been 7 years now since i added carpet cleaning to my bussiness and am now at the stage that i have a truck mount coming next week . it takes time you will buy into all the eco/you need every spotter crap - sure the courses tell you you need it all ( helps sales )
to keep it simple - get a good twin vac with 200 ish psi pump , a heat box so at least you get some sort of tepid heat out the end !
dont bother with the inboard heater as the pumps dont like heat - better off heat box after the pump.
you wil only come across food or oil stains really - food,
then the machine should get it out - oil, paint bluetack nailvarnish etc then POG is all you need
coffee, red wine sort of stains - well its all down to carpet type - man made stuff 99% gone- wool 10-20% but dont hold your breath lol i dont care what is said in the real word of cleaning thats the best you can get .
prochem de-foamer
prochem presray
sprayer
pile brush
thats it - simple all you need , and a big smile and blue overshoes to look the part.
