I've gone crazy cleaning a large area (or sofa) with the small nozzle that came with the machine. It took forever to do anything. This nozzle is twice as wide as the one that comes with it and will take up a lot of water when used correctly. Keep in mind that because this nozzle is twice as wide as the standard nozzle, it will use your cleaning solution twice as fast. It seems to collect water best when pushed forward. I checked it in front of a mirror to see which direction most of the water was drawn in. To all the people complaining that their green machine isn't picking up enough water, don't push too hard and think it's picking up more. You should let your head roll lightly on the carpet and take your time. Trust me it works! I use up a tank of cleaning solution and get back 3/4 tank of dirty water. Think of a regular upright vacuum, you press it firmly into the floor when you use it, or you just let it slide across the carpet. .If you don't need forearms like Popeye, use it like a canister vacuum and it will pick up a lot of water.