Car Wash Maintenance: The Key to Optimal Performance

An important factor for any type of car wash business is equipment. Whether it's big commercial machinery, a pressure washer, or even just drying towels, equipment is what helps us clean and dry cars.

But there is a lot of equipment on the market, most of which is not necessary for every car wash. However, as a car wash business owner, how can you decide on which equipment you need, or which you don't need.

That is exactly why we're here to walk you through car wash equipment, with the goal of leaving you more confident in deciding what equipment you should be purchasing for your car wash.

Equipment For a Car Wash: What Every Wash Can Use

When you first think about car wash equipment, you may think of conveyor belts, huge dryers, and moving water pressures systems that automatic car washes use. While that is important, it does not stop there, there are other less flashy types of equipment that should be used in a car wash business.

Reverse Osmosis System or Water Softener

This type of system is used to remove impurities from water before it even enters the car wash. This ensures that your car wash equipment doesn't get gunked up with minerals and other particles that can cause damage. Water with lots of minerals, or hard water, can even interfere with the car wash process itself, leaving a poor result. We have a blog detailing all the effects about hard water. In order to get a spot free rinse a reverse osmosis system is required.

Water Reclaim System

A water reclaim system is used to recycle water from the car wash. This helps to cut down on water usage, as well as sewage fees, because less water is being sent down the drain.

These systems turn dirty, used water, into clean water that can be used again. ClearTech specializes in water recycling and you can check them out if you're interested.

Types of car wash equipment for an automatic wash

Brushes

Some automatic car washes use brushes that will rotate and scrub off dirt, grime, and marks off of vehicles. These brushes are large, and vary in abrasive level. Automatic washes won't always use brushes, but it's a common method for those that do.

Conveyors

A conveyor carries the vehicle through the car wash. Not all automatic washes use a conveyor system.

If they do use one, it is typically for a tunnel car wash, where the vehicle is carried through a long tunnel. With each section being a different stage of the car wash that cleans all those painted surfaces, windows, and wheels of a car.

Dryers

After a vehicle is washed, it needs to be dried off before the residual water evaporates and leaves water marks. Automatic car washes typically have very large and strong dryers that will quickly and efficiently dry off the vehicle.

High Pressure Water Systems

Automatic car washes have high pressure washers that do an excellent job at quickly and efficiently washing and rinsing vehicles.

These are especially important in touchless car washes, where no friction is used, and will need an precise amount of water pressure to leave a spot free rinse!

Wheel Cleaners

Some automatic car washes have wheel cleaners. These are special machines that will quickly and easily clean the wheels of a vehicle. Situated before the dryers, the wheel cleaner cleans off any residual water and brake dust that may be on the wheels.

Chemical applicators

Automatic car washes typically have chemical applicators that will apply presoaks, soaps, detergents, waxes, and other chemicals to the vehicle during the wash process. Often these applicators can be embedded within arches for additional show.

Types of Equipment for a Self Service Car Wash

Self Serve Systems

Self serve washes need much less individual equipment to operate. These types of car washes commonly have an all-in-one system that is multi purpose and has all the features that customers need to wash their vehicles.

These systems can apply presoaks, triple foam detergents, wax, tire cleaner, drying agents and more. This way, you can save room and money, while keeping everything in one area for people to use in washing their cars. They typically have a spray gun or brush that customers use to apply the solutions themselves.

Extras

These help the job, like a tire scrubbing brush, or microfiber towels or microfiber cloths. These are pieces that can make the process quicker or easier, but typically aren't necessary to get the job done.

Types of Equipment for a Full Service Car Wash

All in One Systems

Since full service washes also wash cars by hand, it would make sense that they also use a similar type of car wash system as a self service car wash. The employees would use a system that can apply presoaks, soap, wax, and other chemicals to the vehicles, and clean them for customers.

Extras

These are small extras such as drying towels, microfiber cloths, and other related tools that help the employees clean and dry cars effectively.

Central Vacuum Systems

A central vacuum system is a very important piece of equipment for full service car washes. This is because it allows the employees to quickly and easily clean the inside of customer's vehicles without having to lug around a heavy and inconvenient vacuum cleaner. Central vacuum systems may be available at automatic and self serve washes but since those business' are catered towards cleaning only the exterior of vehicles, it is more of a priority for full service car washes.

Types of Equipment for a Truck Wash

Since trucks are so large in size and sometimes have a challenging shape to clean, there are specially designed equipment to tackle their wash.

These systems are usually sold together in two varieties:

Drive Through Truck Wash

Almost like an in bay automatic wash, but with a twist of tunnel washes, trucks drive through a wash bay where stages of equipment will clean the truck as it drives through.

Roll Over Truck Wash

In this system, trucks go into a wash bay and stop while equipment goes around the truck and washes it. The advantage of this type is that it can clean more effectively for trucks with unique shapes.

How to choose the right car wash equipment for your business

When starting a car wash business, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right car wash equipment.

There are many factors to consider, including the type of vehicle you will be washing, the climate in your area, and your budget. For example, if you live in an area with harsh winters, you will need equipment that can withstand freezing temperatures.

Alternatively, if you plan to wash high-end vehicles, you will need equipment that can provide a gentle clean.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin to narrow down your options and choose the car wash equipment that is right for your business. With the right equipment, you will be able to provide an excellent wash for your customers and build a successful car wash business.

Maintenance and cleaning tips for car wash equipment

As anyone who has ever operated a car wash knows, keeping the equipment clean and well-maintained is essential for proper functioning. Not only does this help to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction, but it can also extend the life of the equipment and prevent costly repairs.

Here are some tips for keeping your car wash equipment in top condition:

• Inspect the equipment regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
• Make sure all moving parts are properly lubricated.
• Keep the exterior of the equipment clean and free of debris.
• Periodically check hoses and other plumbing components for leaks.

By following these simple maintenance tips, whether you have one location or many. you can keep your car wash equipment running smoothly for years to come.

How much should you pay for car wash equipment?

The exact amount you pay for your car wash equipment will dependent on any number amount of factors. But whether you buy the cheapest equipment you can find, or the most state of the art, can impact your car wash business in many ways.

Car wash equipment is expensive and you will need to account for it when deciding to buy or replace your business' equipment. But buying the cheapest equipment on the market can leave you with lackluster results, on top of potentially breaking down sooner.

On the other hand, buying the latest and greatest thing can leave your business in a such a large financial hole, you may not be able to allocate the funds necessary for all the other aspects of your car wash business, such as staffing, training, chemical selection, or marketing.

Be sure to do your research on the specific pieces of equipment you are looking at. We highly recommend Washworld Inc.'s equipment as they are some of the best pieces you can buy but still for a realistic price. You can view their featured products.

Still unsure of your equipment choices? Contact Us - Turtle Wax Pro

The world of car wash equipment is vast, and it's tough to confidently know where to turn on your own. That is why you should rely on your car wash supplier for advice, at the end of the day, the equipment has to synergize well with your chemical selection.

Turtle Wax Pro is one of the industry leaders in car care, and have been for over 75 years. We know car wash chemicals and how to best position them for success, and that includes what equipment you should use. You can count on us to help guide you through that process.

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Are you planning to start a car wash business, but not sure where to begin?

The first step is picking the right car wash builders. The process of car wash construction may seem overwhelming, but with the right guide, it doesn't have to be.

Understanding the Car Wash Industry

In today's competitive landscape, comprehending the nuances of the car wash industry is crucial for potential business owners. Car washes have diversified into several types including service car wash and self-serve options.

The industry requires owners to be strategic in their decision-making process, especially during the building phase. Ensuring your car wash type aligns with your specific business needs is fundamental to gaining a competitive edge and driving your business towards success.

Selecting the Right Car Wash Builders

Choosing the right car wash builders can make or break your business. It is essential to consider factors such as their previous projects, expertise, and customer testimonials.

Look for builders with experience in constructing service car wash buildings and glass car wash buildings. This experience will ensure that your car wash is built to the highest standards.

Importance of Car Wash Design

A well-thought-out car wash design can significantly enhance your customer's car wash experience. Features like clear glass structures and dedicated equipment rooms can help your business stand out. Different types of car wash structures, like service car wash structures and standalone car wash structure, have their unique benefits. Consider all these factors when planning your car wash facility.

Car Wash Construction Process

The construction process of a car wash business is intricate and requires careful planning. It starts from the ground up and includes stages like site selection, design, permitting, construction, and equipment installation.

A well-planned wash bay is crucial for efficient operations. So, when you're building a car wash, don't overlook the importance of a detailed plan.

Equipment and Infrastructure

The choice of car wash equipment can greatly impact your car wash construction. Invest in robust and efficient equipment that will withstand different weather conditions and increase your service speed. Furthermore, a sturdy car wash building is vital to protect your investment and ensure longevity.

Economic Factors

The cost of constructing a car wash can be significant, but with the right plan and execution, you can expect a healthy return on investment. A well-constructed, attractive car wash can draw in more customers, contributing to your bottom line.

Different car washes will have varying levels of costs needed to start up and to operate. A tunnel car wash will require much more capital than a self serve would.

Investing in the Right Car Wash Technology

In the rapidly evolving car wash industry, staying ahead of the curve means investing in the latest car wash technology. Advanced car wash systems not only enhance the efficiency of your operations but also provide a superior cleaning experience that customers appreciate.

From touchless car wash equipment to high-pressure systems and eco-friendly solutions, the right technology can set your car wash business apart from the competition. Moreover, integrating smart technology like mobile payment options and loyalty programs can significantly boost customer retention and increase your revenue.

Remember, the success of your car wash business hinges on the quality of service you provide, and investing in the right technology plays a crucial role in achieving that.

Turtle Wax Pro: Your Partner in Car Wash Success

As one of the most recognized name in car washing, Turtle Wax Pro supports car wash businesses all around the world. Our team offers a wide range of services, including providing best in class car wash chemicals, equipment, marketing solutions, operations guidance, and training.

Selecting the right car wash builders is the first step towards a successful car wash business. They bring your vision to life, and a good builder will work with you to create a car wash facility that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

For any questions or concerns about starting your car wash business, don't hesitate to contact Turtle Wax Pro. Our team is always ready to assist you in your journey to success.

If you own a car wash business, you know sometimes things do not go as planned. Equipment breaks down, it stops working, there's a leak, or something else is wrong. Sometimes these issues are a quick fix and other times, not so much!

It is important for your car wash business to know how to handle repair situations as sometimes they can be time-sensitive (or financially sensitive) matters that you should look to handle as efficiently as possible to reduce the amount of downtime you face.

Things break down - Expect to Encounter Repairs

No matter the type of car wash equipment you have, there will a day when something goes wrong. It could be something minor that you can fix yourself or it may be something larger where you will need help from some factory trained technicians.

All machinery, including your existing car wash equipment has a lifespan as well where things may just need to be replaced entirely. It is important to see the warning signs so your business won't be left closed for too long.

It is also a great idea for your car wash to know what those warning signs might be, as well as what kind of issues are easily fixed and others that may not be.

Car Wash Equipment Warning Signs

Most of the time when something goes wrong with your equipment, there will be some sort of warning sign. For example, if you start to notice any leaks, it is probably an indication that there is a bigger problem.

Another common sign that something is wrong is strange noises coming from your equipment. If you notice any grinding sounds, hissing, or something that just doesn't sound right, it is important to take a closer listen and see if you can identify the source of the noise.

If your equipment isn't working as efficiently as it used to, this could also be an indication that there is a problem. If you notice any decrease in performance, it is important to take a look and see if there is anything that could be causing the issue.

Identifying the warning signs can save your car wash system a lot of potential down time.

Repairs for Car Wash Systems

Car wash equipment accessories and their machinery can break in lots of different ways. For example, the rollers that help move the car through the wash may become worn down and need to be replaced which can be seen as a quick replacement.

But things can be more extreme, such as a pump breaking or hybrid car wash equipment not working as it should. These types of issues will require more time, money, and effort to fix and may even warrant a call to the manufacturer or someone who is factory trained.  

Some car washes even employ an in house mechanic to aid in their own maintenance, this will keep your wash running through most minor work.

Don't Forget About Maintenance!

Car wash maintenance will help ensure that your equipment lasts as long as possible and runs as efficiently as possible.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for preventive maintenance and care. For example, many car wash systems will need to be descaled on a regular basis to prevent build-up of minerals that can damage the equipment. Factory training can be another useful tool if the manufacturer offers it.

You should also develop a regular cleaning schedule for all of your car wash equipment. This will help remove any dirt, grime, or other build-up that could potentially cause problems.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your car wash running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

If you do encounter a problem that you can't fix yourself, it is important to have a reliable car wash repair solution or supplier nearby that can help you through those issues and give you a variety of profitable solutions.

The Importance of Training

Having the right training will help your car wash and its employees know the ins and outs of all your car wash equipment. That can be especially useful when things encounter fixable problems and you have someone in house who knows how to take care of it.

In the car wash industry, its tough to stand out but with the right training, many aspects of your business can improve and help you separate yourself within the market. In the case of equipment repairs, the right training will help you stay running for longer and avoid that devastating downtime that may turn away customers in the future, it could also help your business save money from repairs that can then be used to improve your wash in another way.

Long-standing service customers appreciate quality service, so you will want to have a fine reputation by prioritizing car wash training.

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Rely on your Supplier (or Distributor) - Transchem Group

That is also why it is important to have a great car wash supplier or car wash equipment distributor to take the time to properly train your car wash on your equipment, chemicals, and wash processes.

This is a big focus for Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro who strive to establish confidence in our car wash operators on how they service car wash systems. We routinely hold both traditional service (in-person) training sessions for our clients and operators as well as online sessions. Turtle Wax Pro even has an online learning center where users can log on and start training modules at any moment!

A Supplier Close to Home - Direct to Market in Alberta

Having your car wash supplier nearby your car wash is a huge advantage for your business! We are proud to say that Transchem is direct to market in Alberta, meaning we can support your car wash from top to bottom!

We have a state-of-the-art facility in Calgary and have the means to support your Alberta-based car wash to the greatest ability. Being close by ensures products arrive faster, training can be done more effectively, and if problems ever do arise, you can lean on us being there quickly to ensure your car wash can get back to business in a flash! You can learn more about our Alberta offerings here.

Have Concerns about your Repair Options? Contact Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro

If your car wash is ever in need of repairs or you have questions about the best options for your business, please do not hesitate to reach out to us! We would be happy to chat with you about your specific needs and help you find a solution that makes the most sense for your business, whether that is finding you the right person to take care of your issue or supporting you in the future with preventive maintenance measures.

With decades of experience supporting car wash businesses of all types, we know a thing or two about problems that arise with car wash equipment. You can rely on us to support you through your issue and help your business shine in anyway we can!

One of the core values of Turtle Wax Pro is environmental protection. We not only develop products that clean, protect and beautify your cars, but we also work to find ways to reduce our environmental impact.

Our eco friendly car wash chemicals are just one example. Our products are just as effective as products containing hydrofluoric acid, phosphates and other harsh chemicals, but without the environmental damage.

We are also constantly working on ways to reduce our water usage. We do this by using hyper concentrated chemistry, which allows us to do more with less. This means that we ship less water and reduce our plastic packaging waste.

We believe that it is our responsibility to protect the environment, and we are always looking for ways to reduce our impact. We hope that you'll join us in this effort!

In this article, we will share some tips on how you can make your car wash more eco friendly.

What Does Being Eco-Friendly Mean?

When we talk about being eco-friendly or sustainable, we mean reducing our impact on the planet. This can be done in a number of ways, but one way is to use products that are less harmful to the environment.

Environmentally friendly car wash soap is made from sustainable materials and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute surrounding ecosystems or harm wildlife.

Using a sustainable detergent is a great way to become more green while still keeping a vehicle clean of dirt and grime.

The Benefits of Using an Eco-Friendly Car Wash Soap

There are many benefits to using biodegradable cleaning products.

It’s better for the planet

As we mentioned before, sustainable products are made from sustainable materials (ex: phosphate free) and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute the environment or harm wildlife over the long term.

It’s gentle on vehicles

'Green' detergents are gentle on paint, won’t strip away wax or polish and will still clean cars. This is important because a good paint job is key to making a car look its best.

It’s affordable

Biodegradable detergents are just as affordable as regular detergents. This is because they are often made from sustainable materials that can be less expensive to produce.

Turtle Wax Pro works extremely hard to produce chemistry that performs competitively when using a cost-per-car analysis.

It protects your equipment

Many chemical companies produce cleaning products containing hydrofluoric acid. This is a corrosive chemical that can damage your equipment and cost over $100,000 through early replacement.

Turtle Wax Pro products don’t contain any hydrofluoric acid or other harmful chemicals, so they won’t damage your equipment or lower its life span. HF is also just one of many dangerous chemicals that can lead to long term severe health problems for you or your employees. It can also cause acute issues including skin burns, eye irritation and inhalation of toxic fumes.

The Importance of Being Eco Conscious As a Commercial Car Wash Owner

As a business, it’s important to be eco-conscious for many reasons.

• Not only is it the right thing to do for your local ecosystem, but it can also save you money in the long run. You can go beyond biodegradable products by using water reclaim systems or hyper concentrated chemistry to save on water costs.
• Additionally, being eco-conscious can be used as a great marketing tool for commercial car washes. Customers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are more likely to do business with a company that shares their values.

Choosing an Environmentally Conscious Brand like Turtle Wax Pro

Making a choice on car wash chemistry is the most important decision in producing clean cars.

The things to consider are quality of products, quality of service, and working with a company that fits your needs.

Turtle Wax Pro is a leader in the development of environmentally friendly car wash products. Leadership in environmental conservation and stewardship is fundamental to our ongoing success. We endeavour to innovate products that respect our physical environment and adhere to the highest standards in our industry.

We work with many companies who have an environmental focus and help them establish a much stronger eco presence.

If your business has any concerns about their considerable environmental impact, we would be happy to discuss aspects on how you can improve your strategy.

How to Make your Car Wash Eco Friendly?

There are many easy ways to make your commercial car wash more eco-friendly.

Using eco-friendly products

As we’ve already discussed, using eco-friendly car wash chemicals is a great way to be more eco-conscious. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also just as effective as regular car wash soap.

Installing energy-efficient equipment

Another great way to be more eco-conscious is to install energy-efficient equipment in your car wash. This can include things like LED lighting, high-efficiency pumps and solar panels.

Recycle materials

Using recycled materials is a great way to reduce waste and cut costs. Some examples of recycled materials that can be used in a car wash are recycled soap dispensers, signage and hoses.

Recycling water is a great idea for your business to reuse its biggest resource, cut costs, and perhaps even save the local sewer systems. Water reclaim systems recycle the water used in the car wash by filtering out dirt, grime and chemicals so it can be reused again.

Be careful when selecting a system as some types can lead to a not-so-great smell when water is reused.

Save water from running off into storm drains

Water is one of the most important aspects within a car wash. Many car washes waste a large amount of water each day.

It is very important for a car wash to have a system in place to not violate various storm sewer laws and contribute to water wastage. Contaminating storm drains with soapy water is a big problem as it can find its way to local waterways and harm wildlife or aquatic life.

The best way to accomplish this is to have a water reclaim system that collects the water run-off and recycles it back into the car wash. This will save a large amount of water and money over time. This is true for all car wash types, from self serve to tunnel washes.

Washing Wisely for the Home Car Washer

There are many ways the home car washer can practice sustainable behaviour as well. By following a few tips, you can minimize your environmental impact and save money at the same time.

Limit your water usage

One of the easiest ways to be more environmentally conscious when washing your car is to use less water.

You can do this by using a bucket instead of a hose or by using a waterless car wash product.

Waterless car wash products are good for small jobs and a great way to conserve water when washing your car. They work by using a special cleaning solution that is sprayed onto the car surfaces and then wiped off with a cloth. This solution is designed to remove dirt, grime, road film, brake dust and other debris from the surface of the entire car.

While not truly a 'waterless wash' these products will use less water than a traditional soap or detergent and still make the car clean.

Use biodegradable products, avoid dish soap and other household cleaners

Using biodegradable soap is a great way to be more sustainable when washing your car in the driveway.

As a helpful additional tip, do not use liquid dishwashing detergent to wash your entire car.

The temptation for many to fill a bucket with water and add a squirt of dishwashing liquid to create lots of suds is strong, but dish washing liquid is too strong and formulated for an entirely different purpose. It is not the right choice to wash your vehicle.

Other products like a spray bottle of Simple Green or other all-purpose cleaners are also not a great choice as they aren't formulated to cut through road film, large dirt or other tough stains. Simple Green does make a car wash specific product, always look for a product that is made specifically for cars.

Try to control where dirty water flows

After washing your vehicle. Do your best to contain the water to your own driveway or lawn and allow it to seep into the ground, rather than flowing straight towards the storm drain.

Toxic wastewater can enter the water system and cause problems, both legal and environmental.

Lastly, visit a commercial car wash

If you are looking for the most sustainable way to wash your car, visit a commercial car wash. At a professional facility, water is filtered and reused multiple times before being released into the sewer system.

While there are many sustainable car wash practices, these are just a few tips to get you started. By making even a small change, you can have a big impact on the environment. So when it comes to choosing your car wash chemistry and equipment, it's time to make the greenest choice. It’s good for business and good for the planet.