In the rapidly evolving carwash industry, hyper concentrated chemicals are emerging as a game-changer. In a recent podcast interview with Professional Carwashing and Detailing Magazine, our Director of Strategic Initiatives, Mackenzie Ewing, delved into the benefits and considerations of using these powerful products.
Understanding Hyper Concentrated Chemistry
Hyper concentrate®, ultra concentrated, and super concentrated are terms often used interchangeably in the carwash industry. They refer to products designed to be diluted with water before use, allowing operators to receive containers of pure chemistry instead of a mix of chemistry and water.
However, it's crucial for operators to be aware of marketing terminology. Since there are no formalized definitions of concentrate levels, anyone can claim to have a form of concentrated products. Understanding what you're buying and how it can be used most effectively is key.
The Advantages of Hyper Concentrated Chemicals
Hyper concentrated chemicals offer several benefits over ready-to-use products:
- Cost Savings: Although they are more expensive per container, operators typically use only a few milliliters per vehicle, leading to significant cost savings in the long run.
- Customization: Hyper concentrated chemicals offer more customization options, allowing operators to adjust the concentration to suit their needs.
- Safety and Efficiency: These chemicals are safer for employees to handle, require less storage space, and are better for the environment due to reduced shipping volumes and plastic waste.
- Marketing Opportunities: The use of hyper concentrated chemicals can be leveraged for unique marketing strategies, positioning a car wash as environmentally friendly and precise in its operations.
Why Cost Per Car is Important
Adding to the benefits of hyper concentrated chemicals, one of the most significant advantages is the potential for cost savings when calculated on a per-car basis. This concept, known as the cost-per-car metric, is a crucial determinant of profitability in the carwash industry. It explains how much it costs a car wash to wash each vehicle. A lower cost per car means you can make more from each wash job.
To calculate the cost per car, you need to find the price per milliliter of your product and multiply that by the amount applied to a single vehicle. For example, if a car wash chemical costs $0.009 per mL, and you need to use 10 mL, you get $0.09 per car. Do this for every product in your wash and add them together for your total cost-per-car.
It's important to note that the cost per car will vary with your wash business and what packages or products you offer. Base-level packages that only include basic products might only use $0.20 worth of chemicals. High-end packages with multiple upsells could reach as high as $2.00 for the cost of chemicals.
A common misconception is that a more expensive container of hyper concentrated chemicals will result in higher costs. However, when you break down the cost per car, you often find that these products are more cost-effective in the long run. This is because you're using a smaller amount of the product per wash, which extends the life of the container and reduces your overall costs.
Hyper concentrated chemicals also offer the added benefit of reduced shipping and inventory costs due to their smaller size and weight. Instead of purchasing pre-diluted chemicals, your car wash can save big on both money spent while ordering as well as storage space.
Considerations for Using Hyper Concentrated Chemicals
While hyper concentrated chemicals offer numerous benefits, there are also considerations to keep in mind:
- Convenience: Ready-to-use chemicals offer convenience as they require no dilution and are ready for immediate use.
- Higher Container Costs: Hyper concentrates are more expensive per container, which can be a tough sell for some operators.
- Equipment Precision: To take full advantage of hyper concentrated chemicals, you need to have strong accuracy in your dispensing systems and equipment.
With the right mindset all of these objections to hyper concentrates become easily managed.
Impact on Water Reclaim Systems and Waste Disposal
When it comes to water reclaim systems, the type of chemical used (ready-to-use or concentrated) makes no difference. What matters are the ingredients used in the chemistry. The same applies to waste disposal considerations. It's crucial for operators to be aware of local government regulations and avoid harmful ingredients like phosphates, Ammonium Bifluoride (ABF), and Hydrofluoric acid (HF).
Learning About Hyper Concentrated Chemistry
Operators can learn about the best methods to work with hyper concentrated chemistry through various resources. These include industry media, networking with other operators, and supplier content. Working with distributors who have a broad base of customers and experience with multiple lines of chemistry can also be beneficial.
In conclusion, hyper concentrated chemistry is at the forefront of innovation in the carwash industry. As we continue to evolve and grow, it's crucial for operators to stay informed and adaptable, ready to embrace the future of carwashing.