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I’m old enough to remember that when I attended elementary school, Smokey Bear taught us that “Only you can prevent forest fires.” Though the goal— whether in the wild or pressure washing a house— should be to prevent fires, what can you do to suppress a fire once it starts? Turn to page 6 and find out by reading “Fire Suppression—Subdue Flames Fast.”
Having situational awareness and performing a walkaround before the job starts, even if it is a place you’ve worked at before, are two of the tips that are given. It’s also important for a contractor to ask where fires could start and what process the contractor is using that could lead to starting a fire (i.e., performing a house wash with chlorine that could come into contact with electrical boxes), considerations shared by Michael Draper, PWNA’s director of safety and compliance.
Turn to page 10 to read several mini articles that provide information on multiple pressure washing manufacturers and suppliers who sell the equipment and accessories within the industry. There are also a couple of product highlights.
Turn to page 28 to read about the nine CETA scholarship winners in 2024–2025. You can read about their future plans, degrees they are pursuing, and motivations for why they are pursuing specific interests. When reading these profiles, you will see an encouraging picture for the future.
Other articles in this issue address strategies for business growth, coating care, team formation, and what to consider when stocking a service truck.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the October 31–November 3 PowerClean trade show in Orlando, FL. It will take place at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel. Keep your eyes peeled for the schedule and program in the October issue of Cleaner Times. We look forward to seeing you in Orlando.
Michael
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SUBDUE FLAMES FAST
by Diane M. Calabrese
Photo
So serious a subject is fire suppression that the starting point should not be suppression but prevention. Preventing fires must always be the goal. But should the worst happen, the capability to subdue flames fast is imperative.
Situational awareness is where all safety precautions begin. Know the setting. Assume nothing. Even if a contractor has worked on the same site in the past, it’s important to do a walkaround before beginning another job there.
Once the setting is understood, the method must be matched. “In order to prevent fires, contractors have to think, ‘Where could fires start?’ or ‘What processes am I using that could cause or start a fire?’ and then take preventive measures to suppress them,” says Michael Draper, the director of safety and compliance at PWNA.
Draper gives us an example. “For instance, a contractor doing a house wash with chlorine should know that contact with electrical boxes could cause a fire, so he takes preventive measures by isolating the boxes from the exposure.”
To be sure, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers extensive assistance along with its expectations (and regulations) for preventing fires at worksites. Draper suggests everyone begin there to get a grounding in the many forms of fire suppression tools—from in-house sprinkler systems to extinguishers.
“I think OSHA uses understandable language here,” says Draper in making the recommendation. He cites general industry standard 1910.157(d)(1).
“Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for employee use and selected and distributed based on the classes of anticipated workplace fires and on the size and degree of hazard which would affect their use,” is part of the prescription, and Draper relays it as a starting point. He then elaborates a bit.
“It’s pretty clear that we anticipate what the fire could be and then take preventive and mitigating actions to control it,” explains Draper. “In this case it applies to fire extinguishers, but in principle it applies to whatever fire suppression is being utilized.”
Should a contractor have a fire extinguisher in his or her vehicle’s cab and in the cargo area? What about an extinguisher on the jobsite?
The questions we ask are redundant and should be identified as such by all in the industry. “OSHA requires it”—the described placement of extinguishers, explains Draper.
“And when we add 1910.157(d)(2)—‘The employer shall distribute portable fire extinguishers for use by employees on Class A fires so that the travel distance for employees to any extinguisher is 75 feet (22.9 m) or less’—the expectation from OSHA is very clear,” says Draper.
“It is very apparent that contractors must provide the equipment, training etc. for employees possibly subjected to a fire,” says Draper. The same applies to manufacturers and distributors.
In the last section of this article, “Expectations and Assistance,” we delve deeper into the realm of compliance with OSHA rules that exist to ensure fire safety. In the next two sections, we get some advice from two members of our industry who have worked as firefighters.
MINDFULNESS
A retired firefighter with 17 years’ experience, Mike Dingler, owner of Firehouse Pressure Washing, employs firefighters at his company, which is based in Peachtree City, GA. His experience with fire safety is broad and deep and includes being a nationally licensed paramedic.
Dingler served as a SWAT tactical medic, hazmat technician, and ladder truck operator during the 10 years he was employed full time at a fire department. He has been a volunteer firefighter since he started his business.
Mindfulness sounds a little new age, but it emphasizes that the best way to achieve situational awareness is to shun distractions. Surveilling a jobsite while texting or talking on a digital device is more mindless than mindful.
Pay attention to the basics. “Know that water, soap, chemicals, and electricity do not mix well,” says Dingler.
“Prevention is key to making sure a fire doesn’t actually happen,” says Dingler. “Cover exposed outlets, doorbells, cameras, and anything else that has power to it and cannot get wet.”
It sounds good, but things can still go awry. Even when all the precautions Dingler cites are taken, there may be hidden threats.
“Even when you do all the preliminaries, a fire may still occur from decomposed gaskets/seals,” explains Dingler. “Knowledge of building construction and residential electrical wiring will always help with fire prevention, especially in the house washing industry.”
Strive for the best. But plan for the worst-case scenario.
Also make certain everyone knows the way issues can cascade into one another.
“The extinguisher will be used for your equipment, but more importantly it may stop an entire house—or commercial structure—fire,” says Dingler.
“If you are washing the side of the house and an outlet begins to smoke, that is not the time to try to remember where your extinguisher is located,” says Dingler. And understand the limitations of water as a fire-suppression tool.
“Repeated training on location is critical to overcome this.”
Moreover, Dingler recommends contractors take advantage of organized training. Professional organizations such as PWNA, UAMCC, and CETA offer robust courses on safety and adherence to regulations.
CANDOR
THE BOTTOM LINE AND THE STARTING POINT ARE ONE AND THE SAME WITH EXPECTATIONS FROM OSHA: THE EMPLOYER IS RESPONSIBLE
FOR DEVELOPING A FIRE PROTECTION PROGRAM AND PROVIDING NECESSARY EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING TO CARRY THROUGH ON
THE PROGRAM.
“Regardless of prevention measures taken, a fire may break out; the next-best thing to prevention is always having a charged and readyto-use fire extinguisher on each of your trucks, and you should know where it is located,” says Dingler. And standardization of availability ensures ease (and speed) of access.
“If you have multiple trucks, make sure the extinguisher is in the same location on each truck,” says Dingler. “Make sure the technicians know where the extinguisher is and also that they know how to use it.”
“Water alone may not extinguish an electrical fire, depending on what type of combustible material is located around the outlet or above the outlet in the wall of the home,” explains Dingler. “This is why it is important to have at least an ABC-rated fire extinguisher on hand at all times to protect your equipment and the structures you are cleaning.”
ABC-rated refers to a multipurpose extinguisher that can be used effectively to combat three classes or categories of fire. (Classes are broadly wood and paper—A, flammable liquids—B, and electrical—C.)
It’s not just a matter of purchasing the correct fire extinguisher and putting it anywhere. Thoughtfulness applies here too.
“The best place to keep an extinguisher is where you can remember where it is,” says Dingler. “The cab is an option, but remember that heavy objects like extinguishers become projectiles in motor vehicle accidents. Serious injury or death could occur from an unsecured extinguisher in the cab of a truck during a rollover.”
Dingler recommends contractors store an extinguisher with a bracket if in the cab, or better yet store it in a toolbox or truck bed compartment. “Wherever you store it, just make sure you remember where it is located.”
Memories should be tested periodically. “In the heat of an emergency, simple things [like the where and how of extinguishers] are often forgotten due to the body’s sympathetic nervous system,” says Dingler.
Roy Pennington, owner of Hi Pressure Cleaning Systems in Houma, LA, is a retired volunteer fire chief and arson investigator of 16 years tenure who also has logged more than 30 years in the fire service. He speaks with extensive knowledge and candor about the complexity of fire safety.
“You can try as much as you want, but sometimes ‘you can’t fix stupid,’” says Pennington. A harsh appraisal, but he has witnessed outcomes from blissful ignorance.
For instance, Pennington says a very large contract cleaner burned two—not one—new box trucks because employees of the contractor were trying to run a four gpm, vertical-fired hot-water unit in the back of the truck. He has more examples.
“I have provided rental equipment that the engineer specified as having to be explosion-proof, only to see the man on the end of the gun release the trigger, light a cigarette, and resume washing,” says Pennington. “Yes, they [the unthinking] do live among us. Sometimes only for a short time.”
Vigilance is essential. “Due to the nature of the industries my company serves, prevention ranges from having a dry-chem extinguisher on site to ‘the nth degree’ of having a designated employee whose sole responsibility and assignment is ‘fire watch,’” explains Pennington.
But even those precautions cannot override the lapses of operators. “We have seen contractors come in with small ‘personal-watercraft’ size fire extinguishers mounted directly to the hot water washer,” says Pennington.
Try to imagine the absurdity of trying to get the extinguisher off a unit that is on fire to put out the fire,
explains Pennington. It’s a nonsensical situation deriving from individuals who do not take seriously the importance of knowing what they are doing.
Training and retraining are needed. “A fire extinguisher dry-chem of sufficient capacity should be clearly marked in a spot 20 feet away minimum from any portable hot water machines on the job site,” says Pennington. “The morning safety meeting should include a reminder that ‘this is where the fire extinguisher is kept.’”
The lackadaisical approaches Pennington has seen and still sees concern him greatly. Despite the diversity of applications in our industry, he would like to see a more comprehensive approach to training in fire suppression and safety.
“I have had rental machines not ignite when a trigger is squeezed—and the operator continues running the machine, loads the burner up, and saturates the coil with fuel,” says Pennington. “When we resolve the issue and fire it up for the first time, flames go shooting 30 feet in the air.”
What’s a contractor to do to ensure safe outcomes? “Before startup, ask yourself, ‘What is the worst possible thing that could go wrong?” says Pennington. Then, factor in disengaged employees and ask and answer the
same question again. “And plan for it.”
Manufacturers should envision the settings in which their equipment will be used, says Pennington. Taking the end-user’s view would add to safety.
“I have one manufacturer who designed a diesel-powered cold-water unit with the hot exhaust dumping directly out of the bottom of the base plate to the ground,” says Pennington. “The shipyard was ‘not happy’ when one of their team members had to go put out the grass fire that originated due to this design deficiency.”
Pennington has heard—and seen the consequences of—many accounts that include, ‘It was working just fine and then just caught fire,’ accounts that make him skeptical. He knows that there are—difficult as it is to believe—situations in which employees try to add fuel to an engine while it’s running.
Fire is a powerful tool. It’s also a dangerous tool. But perhaps more dangerous than fire itself, explains Pennington, is the lack of respect (and knowledge) with which many people treat it.
EXPECTATIONS AND ASSISTANCE
The bottom line and the starting point are one and the same with expectations from OSHA: The employer is responsible for developing a fire
protection program and providing necessary equipment and training to carry through on the program.
There are specific OSHA requirements for fixed suppression systems (1910.160) and automated ones (1910.159). The big requirements involve warning employees of hazards from the systems and required regular inspections to verify function.
Manufacturers and distributors will most likely have fixed and automated systems in place. (In many parts of the country, local ordinances require such systems for businesses above a certain size.)
Particulars regarding on-site water, alarms, firewalls and doors, exit directions, and so on are covered by OSHA Standard 1926.150. The same standard also details the types of fire extinguishers (and small hose lines). See specifically 1926.150(c)(1)(iii) for a table illustrating fire extinguisher types (e.g., water, foam, carbon, dry chemical) and classes (A, B, and C as well as D with its special extinguishing agents for unique settings).
Where to begin? Use the search engine at OSHA.gov to understand and clarify details in standards. Get a copy of the OSHA® FactSheet titled Fire Safety. And consistently couple formal training with common sense. CT
AND THE SPOTLIGHT IS ON...
NOZZLE
SIZE: HOW SOMETHING SO SMALL MAKES SUCH A BIG DIFFERENCE
by AR North America
In the world of pressure washing, the size of your nozzle can make or break your system’s performance. Following are three key points to consider:
1. Proper Sizing with a Nozzle Chart—Using a nozzle sizing chart is essential to match your system’s specifications. This ensures optimal pressure and flow, maximizing cleaning efficiency and extending equipment life.
2. Effects of Improper Sizing—An incorrectly sized nozzle can lead to poor performance, including reduced pressure, uneven cleaning, and potential damage to your pump. Proper sizing prevents these issues, ensuring consistent results.
3. Common Nozzle Issues—Even with the right size, nozzles can face wear and tear. Regular inspection for clogs, wear, and damage is crucial to maintain peak performance and avoid costly repairs.
For more information, visit arnorthamerica.com , email us at info@arnorthamerica.com, or continue reading at: https://arnorthamerica.com/articles/nozzle-size-howsomething-so-small-makes-such-a-big-difference/ .
BE POWER
BE Power Equipment is a leading manufacturer of pressure washers, generators, and pumps. Founded by Nick Braber in 1991, the company transitioned from selling agricultural products to producing power equipment. BE Power operates internationally, with facilities in Canada, the U.S., China, and Australia. The company’s success is driven by a dedicated team, continuous improvement, and a lean manufacturing approach. BE Power stays ahead of market trends and maintains strong industry relationships, fostering ongoing growth and innovation.
For more information on BE Power Equipment, call 800-663-8331, email fsales@bepressure.com, or visit www.bepowerequipment.com
BLUBIRD INDUSTRIES
BluBird Industries, a leader in rubber hose manufacturing, is excited to unveil the BluShield single wire pressure washer replacement hose. This innovative product promises exceptional performance and durability for the North American pressure washing market.
Featuring high-tensile single-wire design, the hose maintains superior strength and longevity, perfect for demanding tasks. It’s designed to minimize stress on connectors, reducing damage and extending lifespan. “Durability is crucial,” says Ed Marquardt, president of BluBird Industries, highlighting the high-strength rubber cover that protects against abrasions and external damage.
Safety is key, so with a protective sleeve and a 4:1 safety factor, BluBird provides max protection. The hose is rated at 4000 psi, handles hot water up to 250 degrees, is non-marking, and includes a coupler as a standard offering. All this is offered at an incredible price of just $1.00 per linear foot for a fully assembled hose.
For more information about BluBird Industries, contact sales@blubird.com.
NOZZLE SELECTION by Cat Pumps
Contrary to popular belief, a high-pressure pump does not create pressure; rather, it ensures that flow is not lost under high-pressure situations. In order to create pressure, a restriction must occur downstream from the pump. In the case of a pressure washer, it is the size of the nozzle that is most critical to controlling pressure in a high-pressure pumping system.
To illustrate this concept, think of a garden hose. An open hose flows water freely, but if you put your thumb tightly over the end, the flow is restricted, increasing pressure; this is similar to t he nozzle on your pressure washer. A smaller orifice nozzle will create more pressure than a larger one. It is critical to size the nozzle to match the pump’s flow rate to control the operating pressure and maximize pumping efficiency.
To learn more about nozzle types, sizing calculations, and bypass flow, check out our popular Whiteboard Sessions videos at www.catpumps.com/whiteboard-sessions , or view our Standard Nozzle Selection Chart at www.catpumps.com/nozzle-selection-chart .
CETA
Make a Difference—Become Part of Your Industry
CETA provides solutions to distributors, suppliers, and manufacturers that must navigate changing markets. We will help differentiate you from your competition. In addition we’ll boost your profitability and professionalism and keep you connected with our members. Networking— Connect with a supportive community that offers networking opportunities with other CETA professionals. Special Access—Get access to CETA-specific products and services that keep you at the top of your field. Increased Profit—We share data and supply key indicators to help you develop a plan to increase your net profit by 10 percent or more. For additional benefits, scan the QR code.
For more information about CETA, call 800-441-0111 or visit www.ceta.org .
BLACK TRIGGER UNIVERSAL SPRAY GUN — by CT
CT (Chierici Tito) is proud to present the “black trigger universal” model, a new and improved version of the famous universal spray gun. It is especially designed for the soft wash industry, where aggressive chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach) are commonly used. It is available with VITON or EPDM seals. A selection of different length PVC or stainless-steel pipes completes the range of this incredible product.
It is entirely manufactured in Italy by CT, a subsidiary company of the PA group, using only the best raw materials and following strict quality controls.
Thanks to its superior quality, the black trigger universal model is a sturdy, reliable, and long-lasting spray gun, which is unique to the market—a cost-effective solution for every soft wash application.
For more information on CT, visit our website at www.chiericitito.it/en/azienda .
COXREELS
Entering our 11th decade under the third generation of family ownership and operation, Coxreels is located in Tempe, AZ, and is proud to manufacture the industry’s highest quality and widest variety of hose, cord, and cable reels.
Our team takes great pride in our growth and innovation as a U.S. manufacturer. We recognize USA Made, USA Quality, and USA Support as critical components to delivering incomparable product value. These founding principles are displayed in each model and every part of the Coxreels’ product line! Our advanced engineering and manufacturing processes make extensive use of in-house design, CNC machinery with robotic welding and robotic spin cell operations, and modern automation systems that allow us to develop and build state-of-the-art reeling platform solutions that meet the most demanding requirements in the industry.
Over 100 years as the industry leader proves that constant learning and communication with the industries we serve, innovative engineering, and the highest standards in quality and service ensure we will continue to innovate with new proprietary technologies, superior special features, and superior products that set the bar in the reel industry.
For more information on Coxreels, visit www.coxreels.com .
DECO PRODUCTS
Experience the Deco Products, Inc., advantage and elevate your projects with sustainable, top-quality concrete sealing and waterproofing solutions. Based in Denver, CO, Deco Products has led the industry for over 30 years, manufacturing eco-friendly waterproofing coatings right here in the USA. Our coatings for concrete, brick, and other porous surfaces protect and preserve while minimizing environmental impact.
When you choose Deco Products, you’re choosing exceptional quality and a commitment to sustainability trusted by homeowners, building contractors, and sealing professionals nationwide. Join the movement towards environmentally friendly waterproofing and sealing. Discover the difference with Deco Products today by joining us at one of our FREE training sessions, or contact us to learn more and get started. You can also visit us during Powerclean at booth # 420.
For more information on DECO Products, visit www.decoproducts.com or call 800-500-DECO (3326).
GENERAL PUMP
General Pump, founded in 1982 and located in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, is a premier provider of high-quality pumps and high-pressure accessories. With a rich history, General Pump has established itself as a leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-pressure plunger pumps and accessories. General Pump is a proud member of the Interpump Group, a global leader in hydraulic and high-pressure pump technology.
General Pump’s state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team of experts ensure every product meets strict standards, providing reliability and efficiency. Our extensive distribution network and exceptional customer service support enable clients to achieve success and maximize productivity. With a focus on innovation and a customer-centric approach, General Pump continues to set industry standards, establishing itself as a trusted partner in high-pressure solutions.
For more information on General Pump, visit www.generalpump.com .
GIANT INDUSTRIES
Giant Industries is an American manufacturer and distributor of German high-pressure pumps and accessories. Founded in 1972, our company has built a reputation for delivering efficient and reliable solutions that meet the highest standards of performance. We use only the highest-quality materials to ensure reliability and durability. Our high-pressure pumps and accessories are suitable for a variety of industries and applications.
As a leading provider of advanced water jetting services, Giant specializes in high-pressure water jetting systems and pumps for a diverse range of industrial and commercial applications. German engineering and American ingenuity help to ensure that the pumps and pump units will hold up under strenuous conditions. Our skilled team of engineers and technicians bring experience and knowledge to your project. We look forward to working with you and your team to create the perfect solution to your needs. Visit our website www.giantpumps.com to learn more or email sales@giantpumps.com for a quote.
HYDRAMOTION
Located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, HydraMotion Cleaning Systems has been proudly owned and operated by the Tassone family for nearly 30 years. We prioritize quality by sourcing all our parts and raw materials domestically, ensuring top-notch workmanship and a reliable, nimble product supply chain.
HydraMotion’s products are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of contract cleaners. We offer a diverse range of flat surface cleaners and high-performance specialty detergents, each formulated for the specific cleaning challenges faced by contract cleaners every day.
Our business philosophy is simple: design, engineer, and fabricate products that help contractors achieve success and profitability. By providing high-quality, effective products at lower costs, we enhance their bottom line.
In the pressure washer industry, we have the unique advantage of direct communication with the teams using our products. This invaluable insight guides our product design and R&D, ensuring that our products meet the daily needs for performance, cleaning efficiency, and dependability.
For more information on Hydramotion, call 800-726-1526 or visit www.hydramotion.us
HYDRUS DETERGENT
Hydrus Detergents, which is owned by the Fuhlman Group, was started in 2005 in Graettinger, Iowa. In December 2019 the business moved to Estherville, Iowa. Since March 2020 Hydrus has expanded the product portfolio focused on improving the customer experience and has seen exponential growth these last four years.
Hydrus offers products in the area of aluminium brightening, auto/truck wash, industrial cleaning & degreasers, metal prep for painting, residential home care, graffiti removal, salt neutralization, masonry & asphalt care, and a full line of parts washer detergents.
Our business philosophy is to empower our employees to continually improve our business processes with a focus on safely producing a quality product that is delivered in a timely manner.
The challenges we face are the ongoing global supply chain issues as tariffs against China drive up prices. The quality of crude oil processed is creating price increases in resins for plastics, paints, dyes, surfactants, and other raw materials. The various global conflicts create ocean freight pricing variation.
To discuss detergent sales opportunities in the U.S. and Canada, submit an information request at www.hydrusdetergents.com , call 712-765-1060, or email office@hydrusdetergents.com.
IDROBASE GROUP
Since 1986 Idrobase Group has been producing solutions for indoor and outdoor air purification and depollution of surfaces, through which it is possible to purify any environment and breathe clean air.
Idrobase Group is the world’s number one company in the production of high-pressure pump spare parts and a pioneer in ensuring efficiency through preventive maintenance.
The “DOLLY spare parts” is an extensive range of spare parts fitting over 1.500 pump models for high pressure washers containing the same interchangeable characteristics as other products from 17 pump manufacturers.
A cornerstone of the company’s mindset is shifting away from the expensive approach of repairing as needed, and choosing continuous production and energy efficiency, which are ensured by preventive maintenance.
Idrobase is the single supplier you need to buy all the spare parts to repair any high-pressure washer pump, with the guarantee of “Made in Italy” quality.
For more information about Idrobase Group, call +39 049 9335903, email marco.f@idrobasegroup.com, or visit www.idrobasegroup.com
ITD CHEMICAL
Founded in 1996, ITD Chemical is a leading formulator and manufacturer of industrial chemical solutions, dedicated to creating high-quality, innovative chemical programs for its distribution partners. As the number one provider of private label industrial detergent programs in the United States, ITD Chemical prides itself on delivering an unparalleled customer experience and exceptional product quality.
At ITD we strive to be a value-added extension of your business. Our extensive stock portfolio includes over 250 products across 10-plus market verticals to meet a wide range of needs. We also offer custom product development led by our Ph.D. chemist.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our manufacturing culture and guided by our core values of commitment, continuous improvement, process, energy, and responsiveness. Owner-operated, we are dedicated to building strong relationships and innovative chemical programs with our partners. Join us and experience the difference of working with a responsive, ambitious, and growth-focused chemical manufacturer.
For more information on ITD Chemical, visit itdinc.biz , or give us a call at 800-472-1233.
J.E. ADAMS INDUSTRIES
For over 50 years J.E. Adams Industries has been producing highquality pressure washing products, self-serve car wash equipment, and mist cooling solutions. Our products are known for being durable and dependable while remaining affordable. We are driven by innovative product designs and efficient manufacturing processes. This allows us to provide the highest-quality products, with the fastest delivery in the business… all at the lowest possible price. Our dedicated sales & customer service team is committed to providing a positive experience from order placement to delivery. Customer satisfaction is our number one goal!
For more information on J.E. Adams, visit www.jeadams.com or call 800-553-8861.
KÄRCHER NORTH AMERICA
Kärcher is a global family-owned company committed to providing innovative, reliable, and productive cleaning solutions. In North America we operate under the Kärcher, Hotsy, Landa, Water Maze, and Spraymart brands, offering a full line of industry-leading products. These include both hot-water and cold-water pressure washers, detergents, and mobile cleaning systems.
We lead the cleaning industry with our innovative floor cleaning machines, improving productivity as well as the bottom line. Our most recent innovative solutions include autonomous vacuums and scrubbers. These intelligent tools help businesses use their cleaning staff more efficiently and reduce operational costs while solving labor shortages.
Our Water Maze product line utilizes technologies for cleaning industrial wash water to remove solids through filtration. Lastly, Spraymart offers over 20,000 parts and accessories for all makes and models of pressure washers and floor cleaning equipment.
For more information about Kärcher North America, call 888-805-9852 or visit karcher.com/us
KLEEN-RITE’S PRESSURE WASH CATALOG
From purchasing new, cutting-edge products to replacing worn nozzles or hoses, there always seems to be something on the pressure-washer wish list. At Kleen-Rite, we’ve compiled a vast lineup of products into our handy, comprehensive “Pressure Wash” catalog. This way you can take your time looking through spray tip kits, cold-water pressure washers, surface cleaners, hose reels, pump parts, or anything else you might need for commercial or at-home use.
The annual catalog makes ordering simple. You can compare top brands side by side before determining which is going to work best for your pressure washer needs. If you prefer, we also have a website to further improve your ordering efficiency. And with warehouses in Texas, Nevada, Missouri, and Pennsylvania, we’ll be able to deliver your pressure wash products quickly and easily.
So, why wait? Order our pressure wash catalog and stay on top of the latest innovations in the industry!
For more information on Kleen-Rite, visit www.kleen-ritecorp.com/requestcatalog or call 800-233-3873.
LEASE CONSULTANTS CORPORATION
Lease Consultants Corporation (LCC), founded in 1979 and headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, specializes in providing financial solutions for the pressure cleaning industry. As a family-owned business, LCC has built its reputation on exceptional customer service and enhancing relationships between equipment sellers and their commercial customers.
LCC helps businesses acquire the essential equipment they need without the limitations of traditional bank loans and without having to tie up their cash. LCC’s innovative finance portal, EquipMoney, streamlines the financing process, helping dealers sell MORE equipment with our versatile financing options and superior support.
When you call LCC, you’ll always speak with a live person ready to assist you. Our account managers bring over 50 years of combined experience in the commercial finance industry to the table, offering the expertise and flexibility that you won’t find with other finance companies.
To get started on growing your sales with financing, contact LCC at 800-325-2605 or visit leaseconsultants.com
MI-T-M CORPORATION — AN EMPLOYEE-OWNED COMPANY
Mi-T-M Corporation is a leading employee-owned industrial equipment manufacturer. For over 50 years the company has built a reputation for quality equipment and exceptional customer service. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Mi-T-M manufactures pressure washers, air compressors, generators, combination units, wet/dry vacuums, heaters, water pumps, and water treatment systems.
Mi-T-M sets itself apart with commitment and dedication. The company stands behind everything it builds with one goal in mind: build it to perform and build it to last. Mi-T-M believes in craftsmanship and value, which is why every piece of equipment from Mi-T-M is built with outstanding quality to last a lifetime
Mi-T-M’s success story began in 1971, when founder A.J. Spiegel designed the first Mi-T-M pressure washer, the “Mighty-1000,” a portable 1000 psi cold-water pressure washer. Since then Mi-T-M has grown to be recognized globally for its dependable equipment.
For more information about Mi-T-M, visit www.mitm.com
NILFISK HPW
Nilfisk HPW would like to announce the transfer of production for the Hydro Tek brand of Nilfisk high pressure washers to our production facility in Fort Pierce, FL. This decision is a step in our commitment to invest in the Hydro Tek, Pressure-Pro, and Magnum by Nilfisk brands for the U.S. market.
Over the past two years Nilfisk has focused on operational improvements to increase performance, efficiency, and output. In 2023 a state-of-the-art Mazak laser was installed in the Fort Pierce facility that delivers a 75 percent efficiency increase compared to previous equipment. Furthermore, we are expanding our distribution warehouse in Fort Pierce to better serve customers and accommodate plans for future growth.
We are confident this offers strategic advantages that enable us to better serve you and your business needs while remaining competitive in the industry, no matter your location.
Thank you for your commitment to Nilfisk and our pressure washer brands.
For more information about Nilfisk HPW, call 772-461-4486 or visit pressure-pro.com or hydrotek.us
PROPULSE
With more than 26 years of experience in the high-pressure hose industry, ProPulse is known for our superior quality hose, advanced hose manufacturing capabilities, technical excellence, and friendly customer service. We are large enough to be a leader in the fluid power industry (one of the top 30 hose manufacturers in the world!), yet small enough to be flexible, responsive, and proactive Our 100 percent on-time delivery for the last four years is a statistic in which we take great pride.
Located in the heart of the Midwest—Peosta, Iowa—ProPulse manufactures more than 20 million feet of thermoplastic hose and assembles nearly two million custom high-pressure hose assemblies every year. Our patented UberFlex ® hose is wellknown in the pressure washing industry for its outstanding resistance to permanent kinking and abrasion, reduced snagging and dragging, and overall ease of handling.
To learn more, visit powermovingforward.com , email sales@powermovingforward.com or call 563-583-4758.
ENHANCING PERFORMANCE WITH RW BECKETT’S ADC BURNERS
By Seth Vandever
RW Beckett, a leader in innovative heating solutions, introduces the ADC Burners— advancing efficiency, ruggedness, and reliability. These oil-fired burners, designed to operate on direct current (DC) power, offer unparalleled flexibility and dependability, making them ideal for pressure washer manufacturers, especially those producing portable units and off-grid applications.
The ADC Burners utilize advanced technology to ensure optimal performance while significantly reducing energy consumption. By harnessing DC power, they eliminate the need for inverters, reducing complexity and enhancing overall system efficiency. This makes them perfect for manufacturers seeking robust, reliable heating solutions for their portable pressure washer products.
With a commitment to quality and innovation, RW Beckett’s ADC Burners represent a significant step forward in efficient, durable heating solutions. They not only provide dependable performance but also withstand the toughest conditions. Experience RW Beckett’s cutting-edge technology, designed to meet the rigorous demands of pressure washer manufacturers and off-grid applications alike.
For more information, contact Seth Vandever, national sales manager for RW Beckett Corporation. Call 519-240-2511 or email svandever@beckettcorp.com.
NEW ITEMS ENGINEERED BY SUTTNER
By Suttner America Company
We are excited to be introducing over 10 new products that will be available within the next few months. Available now is our ST-303 Swivel that is made of stainless steel and nickel-plated brass for corrosion resistance and longevity. Next, we have our telescoping lances; these lances will allow the user to clean tall buildings or equipment without using lifts Last year we introduced our ½-in. stainless-steel swivel spray gun (ST-2320), and this year we have added the ST-51.1 variable nozzle. It easily attaches to the spray gun to allow you to change the water flow pattern with ease. In addition, this popular spray gun will be available with our foot actuated valve. Additional information about our new products will be released soon.
For more information about these items and more, please visit www.suttner.com , email us at sales@suttner.com, or call 800-831-0660.
UDDER TECH
Udder Tech began in 1994 and started off with one item designed for dairy farmers. Over the past 30 years it has grown to offer a wide variety of items for different industries. Udder Tech provides quality workwear, including many waterproof items that can be machine washed and dried. The unique design of the thumbhole sleeve on the waterproof jackets is great for power washing. You put your thumb through the thumb hole and then pull a nitrile glove over the top. This seals the space on your wrist and keeps any water that runs up your arm when power washing on the outside of the jacket. The jacket can be paired with either our waterproof bibbed overalls or pants for a full bodysuit. For more information on Udder Tech, call 888-438-8683, email info@uddertechinc.com, or visit our website www.uddertechinc.com .
VAL6
For over 100 years, Shizuoka Seiki has been a leader in innovation and design in Japan, known for crafting reliable machines for the public. A notable innovation is the VAL6 portable Infrared heater. When VAL6 entered the American market, it quickly gained a reputation for its reliability and efficiency. The VAL6 lineup, featuring over 10 different models, offers various options for portability, efficiency, and power.
For more than 40 years, VAL6 has been serving the U.S., excelling in portable heating and expanding its offerings to include far-infrared designs, propane/natural gas variants, and evaporative coolers. J.S. O’will, with over 20 years of experience, has been dedicated to supporting VAL6 heaters in the U.S., ensuring customers receive top-notch service and efficient solutions. As pioneers in portable infrared heat, J.S. O’will’s expertise guarantees that high-quality, efficient heat is always accessibl e through their extensive dealer network.
For more information on Val6, call 360-226-3627 or visit www.val6.com
REVOLUTIONIZING POWER EFFICIENCY WITH ELECTRIC MOTORS
By Valley Industries
Switching to VIPower Electric Motors offers numerous advantages over traditional gas engines. These electric motors require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for oil changes and spark plug replacements, thereby reducing downtime and operational costs. With zero emissions, they are ideal for indoor and noise-sensitive environments, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. VIPower motors operate quietly with reduced vibration, enhancing user comfort and allowing extended work hours. Soft-start technology smooths RPM increases, reducing wear and prolonging equipment lifespan. The built-in titanium pressure switch conserves energy by shutting down during idle periods, cutting energy wasteage and maintenance expenses. Designed for plug-and-play compatibility, VIPower motors easily retrofit existing equipment, facilitating a swift transition to electric power. Utilizing LiFePO4 battery packs, they offer superior energy density, lifespan, and safety VIPower motors enable businesses to thrive with cost-effective, eco-friendly, and efficient solutions.
For more information on Valley Industries, call 800-864-1649, email sales@valleyind.com, or visit www.valleyind.com to learn more.
VELOCI PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
Veloci Performance Products, Inc., is a Minnesota-based manufacturer that offers a wide range of products and services to give you an edge in the marketplace. Various services and programs offered include product design, private labeling, assembled and kitted goods, bulk pricing, free freight, modern web portal, dropship capabilities, and industry-leading customer service. With a strong emphasis placed on relationships and customer service, Veloci Performance Products is a partner for your business that looks to help drive success alongside you.
Veloci Performance Products offers thousands of SKUs in our 50,000 square foot building, where we aim to provide the best products and services to industries and applications such as pressure washing, OEM, soft washing, hydro excavation, sewer jetting, carwash, auto detailing, portable heating, rental, mining, construction, and more.
For more information about Veloci Performance Products, visit ww.vppdealers.com or contact us at 952-746-4825.
CUSTOMIZABLE OPTIONS
Whisper Wash is number one in customizable options for you and your business! We provide a full lineup of industry-leading and cutting-edge technology that is now fully customizable to help promote your business and brand. Custom swivel caps, decks, and hoses are just a few options that we offer. Add any or all of these options with our new patent pending hydro-flow or infinity stainless-steel spray bars, and you will have a system that will help take your surface cleaning to the next level!
Call us at 727-577-1292 today for your Whisper Wash custom order and get out there and clean up the competition!
GET TO KNOW WOOD DEFENDER: THE PREMIUM EXTERIOR OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN BY STANDARD PAINTS, INC.
Wood Defender, developed by Standard Paints, Inc., is the top choice for fence contractors and pressure washing companies due to its exceptional protective qualities and aesthetic appeal. The oil-based formula penetrates deeply, providing long-lasting durability against UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Available in a wide range of colors, it enhances the natural beauty of wood, offering a professional-grade finish that protects a customer’s investment and increases their property value.
Wood Defender’s ease of application by brush, roller, or sprayer allows for efficient project completion, reducing labor c osts and increasing customer satisfaction. It’s the perfect add-on service! Standard Paints, Inc., supports contractors with not jus t world-class customer service but also educational programs such as a monthly training class, ensuring they stay current with best practices and the latest techniques to build and maintain their stain business.
Incorporating Wood Defender into your services not only enhances the quality of your work but also boosts profitability through premium pricing, referrals, and repeat business. Trust Wood Defender to deliver superior results and elevate your business. Ask for the brand.
For more information, visit WoodDefender.com or call 800-658-KOT E. CT
BUSINESS GROWTH STRATEGIES
by Diane M. Calabrese
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Add services, acquire competitors, and automate processes to do more in the same amount of time…
There are as many ways to grow a business as there are businesses. The best method for a particular company must be determined from within. It cannot be imposed.
Yet there are consultants at every turn who will give advice. Sift through what they say, but don’t use their advice as a template.
Each business owner has a vision of the future, a vision constrained and bolstered by an enormous number of variables. Type of product or service, competitors, geographic area, capital available…it’s a long list.
Moreover, a strategy at the inception of a business will likely be different from one ten years later. Things change, outlooks evolve, and owners assess accordingly.
Ken Yoshitake, president and CEO of J.S. O’will Inc. in Federal Way, WA, explains that in many ways it’s difficult to answer a question about growth while trying to grow. But he points to commitment as important.
“Whatever plan or strategy you have, it’s important to stay the course, despite things not always going according to plan,” says Yoshitake. But giving a plan time is not the same as unwavering attachment to it.
“Being able to pivot and adapt as necessary to attain/reach your business goal is necessary too,” explains Yoshitake. Beyond that, there are the people engaged in the business who must be considered.
“Surround yourself with people who share the same vision,” says Yoshitake, “and that can help support you as well.”
The reminder to make certain that everyone in the business is working toward the same end could not be more relevant in 2024. Somehow employees who do not share the same vision now think it’s acceptable to complain not just to friends but also to the media.
Newspapers are replete with columns that address employee complaints about their employers. Worse, media often run articles sourced with employees who criticize the very product or service being sold.
(We cited some months ago the employee of a major coffee house who
wanted a pay raise and offered the general advice to patrons that the coffee wasn’t worth the price. The employee’s story and name were laid bare in a major paper. What was most amazing is that the employee saw no connection between the cost of coffee and her wages.)
Thus, capable and circumspect employees must be part of every business growth plan. If they have a concern, they must take it to the owner or manager, not a reporter.
WHAT WORKS
Guidance from consultants, and books written by consultants or business owners, are almost as abundant as cooks and cookbooks. But there is no recipe for business growth that offers a “sure thing.”
On the other hand, taking a tested recipe and making modifications that match a situation (altitude and taste for salt) have always been a practical approach in the kitchen. Such modifications are just as practical when using one or more guides to business growth.
What works is what works, and that includes hard work.
“Our company growth has been slow but steady and is really based on hard work and serving customers,” says Dennis Black, president of McHenry Pressure Cleaning Systems Inc. in Frederick, MD. “I realize that this is touted by many, but it is what has worked for us.”
While growing his business, Black has also changed his approach as needed. “In the earlier years we worked hard to grow and develop equipment volume. This was based on meeting our customers’ needs and supplying the best equipment for their needs and environment. In the later years, the market changed.”
When the market shifted, Black moved to realign with it. “With all the choices customers have to purchase equipment now, we have discovered that we need to define who our customer really is.”
Responsiveness to the exacting needs of a prospective or a long-term customer is important. And Black’s company focuses on it.
“Our true customer today must need, appreciate, and see the value in what we offer—expertise, service, and support,” says Black. “In some cases we need to
establish service and support first and supply equipment later.”
At the same time, Black takes a reality-based view of the customer base. “A segment of today’s market focuses more on price and what their initial short-term costs are, and that segment is not usually our customer.”
Black also embraces a reality-based perspective regarding the “many coaches and techniques out there” to assist with business growth. “I believe when all
the fluff is cleared away, it still comes down to service and support,” he says.
That service and support encompass “working hard to make yourself the expert the customers want to go to,” says Black. “We have worked with many companies through the years with all types of programs; and some worked while some did not.”
Indeed, Black does not rule anything out. Each owner must forge his or her own path.
“In earlier years we did use the ‘provide’ technique to help establish and grow our business,” explains Black. “For those who are not familiar with it, this is based on providing a customer wash equipment at no charge as long as they are purchasing the soaps and detergents and foam from you.”
How does Black evaluate the provide program in retrospect? “We credit this program with helping us establish our chemical business.”
Over time Black has incorporated other strategies as well. Leasing is one example.
“We have used leasing programs to help finance equipment for customers, but it really boils down to working hard, attempting to do what is right with integrity, and supporting your customers,” says Black.
KEY STRATEGIES
Gus Alexander, CEO of FNA Group in Pleasant Prairie, WI, says there are “six key strategies we have conveyed to our Delco distributors and dealers and worked with them to deploy.” And he shares the six with us.
“Niche targeting is one,” says Alexander. “Specialize in a specific niche within the industrial pressure washing market, such as cleaning services for oil rigs, manufacturing plants, or food processing facilities.”
What’s the value of targeting a niche? “This can help you stand out and become a ‘go-to’ provider in that particular sector,” says Alexander.
Network expansion is second on Alexander’s list. And it has a lot to do with relationships—the essence of business through millennia.
“Build relationships with complementary businesses, such as property management companies, construction firms, or facilities providers,” explains Alexander. “These partnerships can lead to referrals and mutually beneficial collaboration.”
From the ages-old relationship building to the 21st-century digital connection, business owners must do it all. And that brings us to “online
presence enhancement,” the third strategy Alexander recommends.
“Invest in a professional website and utilize digital marketing strategies such as SEO [search engine optimization], content marketing, and social media to increase visibility and attract leads,” says Alexander. “Many businesses search online when looking for industrial cleaning equipment, so having a strong online presence is crucial.”
“Number four on the list is employee training and development,” says Alexander. “Invest in ongoing training for your employees to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality service. Well-trained staff can improve efficiency, customer satisfaction, and safety compliance.”
Even when everything is running smoothly, it’s always a good idea to pause for a standardized assessment. Soliciting evaluation from customers
in a formalized way can provide it.
Customer feedback utilization is number five on the list of strategies Alexander’s company disseminates. “Actively solicit feedback from customers and use it to continuously improve your services,” he explains. “This not only helps you address any issues promptly but also demonstrates to customers that their opinions are valued, fostering loyalty and positive word-of-mouth feedback.”
Finally, the sixth strategy folds in the interests of the customer base. “It is a sustainability focus,” says Alexander. What does developing such a focus entail? “Consider incorporating environmentally friendly practices into your business, such as biodegradable cleaning agents and water recycling systems,” says Alexander. “This can appeal to eco-conscious customers and differentiate your business in the market.”
The six strategies are not mutually exclusive with the current growth plan of a business. Anything but.
“By combining these strategies with your existing business model and market insights, you can strengthen your position and drive sustainable growth in the industrial pressure washing industry,” says Alexander.
As for the information coming from many quarters—including academics who do not operate businesses—how should a business owner handle it? Sort through it. There could be something useful.
“Sometimes strategies touted by academics or media may not directly translate to practical success in every business context,” says Alexander. “For instance, while certain theoretical models or approaches might sound appealing in theory, they might not align with the unique challenges or opportunities faced by a specific business.”
What to do? “It’s essential for business owners to critically evaluate and adapt strategies to suit their particular circumstances and industry dynamics,” says Alexander.
If ever a venture required thoughtful melding of mind and heart, it’s a business growth plan CT
Strong societies grow from the many individuals who pursue their dreams, thereby turning aspirations into vocations and avocations. Among the 2024-2025 CETA Scholars are individuals who will take up roles in law enforcement, music education, occupational therapy, and veterinary science.
Meet here (introduced in alphabetical order) the nine CETA Scholars 2024–2025. And take a moment to smile about the contributions the young women and men will make to their communities and the world.
The “sponsoring company” listed beneath the name of each CETA Scholar is the CETA-member company that contributed to the scholarship. The “member company” cited is the manufacturer, distributor, or supplier affiliation that made the scholar an eligible applicant.
CETA SCHOL ARS 2024–2025
CETA SCHOLARSHIP BASICS
The CETA Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to nine qualifying applicants (students of CETA members or their employees) annually on a competitive basis. An applicant must be a full-time student for the academic year beginning with fall semester at a college, community college, technical college, university, or graduate school. Three scholarships are awarded in each of the three eligible membership classes: manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. A ranking of applicants by an independent evaluator at an accredited university determines scholarship recipients. If a qualified applicant cannot be identified in one or more of
by Diane M. Calabrese
the membership classes, one (or more) at-large scholarship(s) is awarded to the remaining applicant(s) with the highest ranking(s) regardless of his or her membership class.
CETA member companies that sponsor scholarships gain recognition. Any member company may pledge any amount for scholarships. The company is then added as a sponsor on the scholarship and recognized at all CETA meetings. Funds donated beyond those required to support nine annual scholarships are added to an endowment (aimed at creating a self-funding scholarship program).
See www.ceta.org to read more about the CETA Scholarship Foundation.
PAIGE DAVIDSON
(Sponsoring company—Royce Industries, L.C.)
Already looking forward to her graduation in 2026, Paige Davidson is a biology and art major (with music and art entrepreneurship minors) at Gustavus Adolphus College.
“This year I have had several opportunities to teach kids about my passions,” says Davidson. They have included traveling to middle and high schools with her college’s wind orchestra and teaching cheer and dance for a sports camp.
ADDISON LAUMER
(Sponsoring company—Mi-T-M Corp.)
Instructing children aged six to twelve in both formal and informal settings reinforced Davidson’s belief in the importance of role models and connections to mentors. “For all my passions—music, dance, art, and science—I have had encouragement by those I look up to.”
Now, explains Davidson, she enthusiastically embraces her leadership role in contributing to the education of children in youth groups.
(Member company—CAT Pumps)
A senior at Illinois Wesleyan University, Addison Laumer studies writing. Participation in an international student group over the last year has sparked her interest in and understanding of different perspectives.
“My relationship with the world as I knew it evolved,” says Laumer. “It’s a wonderful kind of change when your world expands. Even having never gone abroad, the internationals who surrounded me flooded my day with new vocabulary, new knowledge, and a new vigor to explore the world.”
Laumer credits the international friends she has made for reminding her “that exploration is the frontier of discovery, the path to compassion, and a way of humility, of putting yourself aside to look at bigger things.”
(Member company—ProPulse, a Schieffer Company)
HOPE NELMS
(Sponsoring company—Lease Consultants Corp.)
Completing a major in marketing with a concentration in healthcare and a minor in psychology, Hope Nelms will graduate from Texas A&M University in December. Helping to solve problems in healthcare has become a priority for her.
“During my junior year I had the privilege of serving as a cochair at Impact,” says Nelms. “Impact helps incoming students get plugged into a local church and find community at the university.”
Engagement with Impact had a profound effect on Nelms. “I have seen what it looks like to lead others with humility, how to care for the people around you, and the importance of faith in college.”
(Member company—Alkota Cleaning Systems)
TIMON OVARD
(Sponsoring company—Pacific Bay Equipment Co.)
History is the major of Timon Ovard, a junior at Texas Tech University. Ovard says that many “little things like joining an honors program, getting voted in as a student government officer, and volunteering at a local school” have enabled him to build a foundation for the future.
BAYLEIGH PETERSON
(Sponsoring company—R.W. Beckett Corp. Inc.)
“Over the past year, I have learned the difficult concept of delayed gratification,” explains Ovard. He enhanced his learning experience by making an “intentional effort to work hard” in all endeavors.
Ovard says he now understands more the connection between sowing and reaping. Moreover, he fully appreciates “the importance of connections and relationships.”
(Member company—Action Cleaning Systems)
A first-year graduate student in occupational therapy, Bayleigh Peterson studies at the University of South Dakota. As she pursues a doctorate in occupational therapy, she builds on the degree in kinesiology and sport management that she earned earlier this year.
“As I continue my education, I am excited for new learning opportunities and cultivating a supportive atmosphere of getting to know each patient by more than just their symptoms,” says Peterson. “I intend to become acquainted with the motivations, environments, habits, and capabilities of my patients” as drivers of daily activity.
Peterson says she wants to help “combat rising health concerns” in society by emphasizing the “importance of exercise and nutrition” when she establishes her future practice.
(Member company—Alkota Cleaning Systems)
KAIDEN RICKETTS
(Sponsoring company—Kärcher N.A.)
A sophomore at California Baptist University, Kaiden Ricketts is pursuing a double major in criminal justice and Christian studies. Mission trips have been profoundly important to him.
“This past year I learned a lot during my stay in Peru,” says Ricketts. Time in Peru was spent “helping out the community, building an orphanage, and helping the elderly.”
The experience in Peru helped solidify Ricketts’ plans for the future. “I long to continue to work hard in school to use my knowledge and skills to later help my community and those around me,” he says.
(Member company—Hotsy of Southern California)
DAKOTA SHORT
(Sponsoring company—Lease Consultants Corp.)
Starting the freshman year at Cornell University, Dakota Short will study history and government. Short looks forward to taking advantage of the many, varied programs at the university.
CAMRYN WILLIAMS
(Sponsoring company—Chappell Supply and Equipment Co. in memory of Blake Chappell)
“In particular, Cornell in Washington or Johnson Museum Internship initiatives seem like fantastic ways to help others,” says Short. “The programs not only build on previous skills of mine but would allow me to develop entirely new ones.”
When in high school, Short joined PeerForward, a group that assists students with meeting their goal to attend college. Short would like to provide similar guidance to other aspiring high school students after completing college.
(Member company—Nilfisk HPW)
Animal science with a pre-veterinary concentration is the major of Camryn Williams, a freshman at Purdue University.
“During my senior year at high school, I was fortunate to be chosen for an internship at a local veterinary clinic,” says Williams. “I accompanied the doctors during their appointments, assisted with lab work, and really got an up-close look at what my future life as a veterinarian would be like.”
Williams came away from the immersion experience with a deep understanding of the many dimensions to providing veterinary care—from “caring for the person as well as the pet” to dealing with “compassion fatigue”— and determination about answering her calling.
(Member company—Nilfisk HPW)
ALLISON WITT
(Sponsoring company—Chappell Supply and Equipment Co.)
A junior at Winona State university, Allison Witt is majoring in criminal justice with a minor in conflict studies and a concentration toward law enforcement.
“During fall 2023 I was given an opportunity to go to the Winona County Jail with my roommate for her corrections class,” says Witt. “We were able to tour the jail and learn about the process that inmates go through when they go to jail.”
The experience at the county jail helped Witt realize that she wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement and become a police officer.
(Member company—CAT Pumps) CT
COATING CARE: EROSION CORROSION
by Jim Deardoff
vs.
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in Maintenance World and can be accessed at https:// rb.gy/o0nzhr
Rust is universally accepted as the signal for coating repairs, but rust is the final stage of corrosion— a naturally occurring process that damages materials (usually metals) when exposed to the environment. Corrosion causes unplanned repairs, early replacement expense, and reduced trade-in and resale value.
Recoating based on visible rust is a form of reactive maintenance when coating failure and rust formation are the reason for repairs or replacements.
Erosion is a far more effective reason for recoating. Erosion is the wearing down of coatings due to weathering, abrasion, and chemical contact, but erosion is extremely difficult to determine by traditional inspections. The following article explains how erosion can be detected, measured, and controlled.
Maintenance based on erosion is a form of preventive maintenance where repairs are performed to prevent a more serious future failure.
CAPILLARY DEFECTS
The first sign of erosion is the creation of capillary defects. These
are microscopic cavities formed in the top layer of a coating. The size and number of these voids determine the coating’s permeability to moisture and oxygen. For new coatings the permeability may be low; but as a coating ages, the permeability increases due to exposure to the environment.
Sunlight is a major cause of capillary erosion. UV light breaks down the resin binders in coatings, leaving the pigments exposed. This process is known as photooxidation and is a major cause of coating failures.
Capillary defects create a hydrophilic surface that produces a polar attraction to moisture and oxygen. This causes dirt, grime, and carbon-based pollution to be absorbed into these voids where they are extremely hard to remove.
COLD-WATER POWER WASHING
Cold-water power washing is popular because it is affordable and simple to use. However, cold water requires high pressure (2500 to 4000 psi) and chemical detergents to remove visible dirt and grime. The problem with cold-water power washing is that it lacks the physical ability to remove complex chemicals used today.
HOT-WATER CLEANING
Hot-water cleaning provides a number of benefits over cold-water washing when the true costs of maintenance are taken into account. True costs include all labor, equipment, and supplies, plus the added value of complete and thorough cleaning.
Hot-water cleaning replaces the high pressure of cold-water washing with the thermal dynamic principals of energy where heat and temperature are used to improve cleaning performance. When water is heated, the molecules absorb this energy and collide with soils. This increases their ability to dissolve and dilute contaminants for removal.
STEAM CLEANING
Steam cleaning provides additional benefits when compared to hotwater washing alone. When water is heated in the sealed container of a steam cleaner, temperatures can be increased past the normal boiling point of 212° and still not boil or produce steam. This is because it is not allowed to expand. When this water is released from the spray nozzle, it instantly expands into millions of tiny water droplets. At this point, hot water contains its highest concentration of cleaning energy.
STRATEGIC MAINTENANCE
Hot water and steam cleaning are the most effective when included in
a planned maintenance schedule. A critical part of any maintenance program is a visual inspection of
surfaces. Hot water/steam cleaning helps identify problems hidden by dirt, grime, grease, and oils.
Photo courtesy of Jim Deardorff. Steel panel that has been exposed to outside weather including rain, sleet, snow, and high humidity since 2010. Once a year I clean it to remove acid rain pollution. This maintains a passive pH value.
pH STABILIZATION
Hot water/steam cleaning opens the door to an alternative to corrosion control by protective coatings for assets where design features, job size, and location prevent the use of traditional painting practices. This is based on pH stabilization to eliminate the conditions that cause coatings to fail rather than dealing with their long-term effects.
pH is the difference between a corrodible surface and a corrosionresistant surface. pH stabilization maintains the corrosion-prevention qualities produced at the factory and extends them throughout product life. Factory coatings are applied in a controlled environment, using quality paints and specialized application equipment. In addition, new metals and other materials will never be cleaner or in better condition when used to produce new products.
pH stabilization begins on day one after products are put into
service to maintain a passive pH value. This is accomplished by maintaining a rust resistant pH value of 7.0 to 8.2.
Hot water and steam cleaning provide the optimum performance when included in a strategic maintenance schedule designed to establish and maintain a level of cleaning quality previously not available by traditional practices.
SOY-BASED PRE-CLEANER
Cleaning performance depends on the quality of its operation. For this reason a special soy-based precleaner is applied before hot-water cleaning. This bio-based product provides excellent wetting properties to loosen soils from hard-toclean surfaces.
BIOLUMINESCENCE
The soy-based pre-cleaners produce a natural bioluminescence when exposed to blacklight UV
energy. Blacklight has been used for decades to identify stress cracks, fluid leaks, and other defects that are difficult to see. Blacklight increases identification of sites that require additional cleaning attention. Steam cleaning with bioluminescence is the only practical way to clean complex surfaces to the microscopic level.
NOTE: A truly cleaned surface protects paints and prevents rust.
BLACKLIGHT, UV QUALITY INSPECTIONS
One of the best UV lights for commercial applications is the “Beast.” The Beast increases the identification of cleaning defects up to 1000 percent when compared to normal human eye inspection. The Beast provides excellent results even under normal shop light.
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS
Steam cleaning and blacklight UV monitoring allow maintenance personnel to use root cause analysis
to identify excessive wear sites and initiate design changes or modifications to improve product or overall maintenance performance. In most cases root cause analysis requires trained personnel and specialized inspection tools. Steam cleaning and blacklight UV monitoring allow the average worker to use root cause analysis.
RENEWABLE CLEAR COAT PROTECTION
The application of micro-thin nanocoating immediately after steam cleaning extends clean cycles and reduces lifecycle cleaning costs. These renewable, low cost, clear coats help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and chemicals by creating a surface that is smoother, easier to clean, and able to stay clean longer by coating modification at the microscopic level.
There is a definite economic argument for planned maintenance. Design engineers will continue to increase product life through improved material and parts development. For this reason current coating formulations may not be able to provide cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions for future corrosion problems.
The argument for maintenance is simple—it takes far less resources to maintain a coating than it does to repair or replace the surface it protects.
Jim Deardorff is the president of Superior Coatings and has over 20 years in the application of protective coatings for high value equipment and steel structures. In 2000 he realized it was virtually impossible to repaint products and structures to modern standards. In his opinion, the best course of action is to protect the original factory finish by precision cleaning and renewable, thinfilm nano-coatings. Jim’s maintenance program replaces reactive repairs with higher forms of maintenance support including preventive, predictive, and prescriptive programs including root cause analysis CT
FORMING A UNIFIED TEAM
by Diane M. Calabrese
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Temperament, timing, and task come together quietly in a unified team.
One person may be on point (think sports or horse teams). But the team’s goal—accomplishing the task—is always in sight.
Few people in 2024 have had experience hitching a team of horses, yet employers who have seen a few Western movies and experienced an employee who kicks up a fuss instead of moving in sync with others may see parallels.
Some horses never quite make the transition from running free in a herd to domestication. Similarly, some people never quite adapt to being part of a team.
Successful employers must form a unified team by being ready to reject a prospective member now and then. (The best time to do so is prior to hiring, setting free applicants who clarify they do not want to be bridled.)
Difficult as it is to achieve, a business must have a unified team. Pause, though, from ways to form it, and back up to a fundamental question.
“How important is vision to the idea of a unified team?” says Jeff Theis, president and CEO of ProPulse—a Schieffer Company in Peosta, IA. “It is critical.”
A particular vision? No, of course not. “Components of the vision can be very specific and/or abstract, but
THE RESOURCES AND HOURS INVESTED IN TRAINING ILLUSTRATE TO EMPLOYEES THAT THEY ARE “AS VALUED AS THEY ARE VALUABLE,” SAYS JONES.
alignment around those targets is key,” explains Theis. The team knows where it’s going and continues along the path even without constant direction.
So back to assembling the team beyond not hiring those who want to work unbridled. “There is no one thing that catalyzes the formation of a team,” says Theis.
“In my experience there are three main components—of course, there are many more—of a highly functioning team,” explains Theis. “First is trust among all team members.
“Second is the alignment around the goals and objectives,” continues Theis. “Third is constant feedback within the team as to status of progress being made toward achieving such goals and objectives.”
Moreover, if something must change, it does. Flexibility is part of every team.
“Sometimes plans need to be recalibrated and may require additional resources, which may include extra time, money, software, machinery, and the like,” says Theis. “Teams can only handle such recalibration if they are aligned and trust each other.”
Clydesdales and Belgian draft horses are both known for their strength and gentle nature. Well into the 20th century they could be trusted to maintain their calm in logging operations as they provided the power for skidding, just as they could ignore the bustle of communities as they pulled wagons or stages into towns.
We often think of successful sports teams first when reflecting on what makes a team unified and exceptionally good. But there’s also something to be learned from the world of equines—recognizing that harnessing the power of individuals requires planning and skill.
It also requires optimism. More about that in the next section.
ATTITUDE AS CATALYST
Employers are engaged in a perennial search for good additions to their teams. Yes, it is analogous to combing the hills to find the best horses in a herd.
Once prospective team members are found, they must become part of the group already in place. The owner of a company must make it happen.
“I’m big on positivity,” says Daron Jones, vice president of operations at Standard Paints Inc. in Mansfield, TX. “If you come in with a negative attitude, that’s what you’re going to leave with.”
Jones firmly believes that “good things will come” if a person goes into a situation thinking positively. “When people tell me—‘Hey, you’re lucky…,’ I don’t think it’s luck; you create your own luck with a positive attitude.”
And with diligence. “Show up with the right mindset and put in the hard work, and you’ll be lucky,” says Jones. “Fostering a positive atmosphere is key in keeping everyone engaged and on the same page.”
Jones believes that positivity is contagious. He also sees positivity as the partner of inclusion in successful team building. “I want to make sure that everyone feels included and part of the team,” says Jones. “To maintain a cohesive team mindset across all departments, fostering open communication and transparency is crucial.”
How does Jones recommend transparency be established? “You want to include your team as much as possible and appropriate in what goes on in day-to-day operations and decision-making, as well as in the successes, both big and small, in all parts of the company.”
Jones recommends ways to reinforce that everyone is working toward the same objective. “Celebrating milestones and achievements as a company offers such reinforcement,” he explains.
“The reinforcement helps to keep everyone motivated and moving as a unit,” says Jones. “Unity and collaboration across departments are fostered when everyone understands the purpose behind their work and sees how their contributions directly impact achieving a goal,” he comments.
Positive outlooks and good outcomes do not just happen. Each person must be equipped to contribute to tasks.
Education is important, says Jones. “We do a lot of cross-training. When someone is out on vacation or out sick, the show must go one. So, the more skills each person has, the better.”
In other words, timing comes into play. If the capabilities of a team are broad and deep, a task can be
completed at any time without waiting for a particular individual to return. The resources and hours invested in training illustrate to employees that they are “as valued as they are valuable,” says Jones. Employees who understand the “interconnectedness of their roles” also “appreciate how their work contributes to the overall success of the company.”
What does Jones’s company seek when hiring? “When we hire
personnel, the most important factor we look for is teachability and coachability,” he says. “We truly believe a company is only as good as their employees.”
Even the most well-trained, optimistic, and cohesive group can meet an obstacle. (Yes, think of those horses again in the Western when it comes to boulders in the road, a stream that’s running too fast to ford, etc. A workaround must be found, and the team must be amenable to it.)
How does Jones’s company handle setbacks and challenges as a team?
“Listening is the biggest key,” says Jones. “You have to listen to feedback, whether it’s good or bad, and you have to improve by assessing it.”
Some information may not be what we want to hear. That doesn’t mean it is bad information.
“All information is good information and can help you iterate,” says Jones. Feedback allows the company to “be better,” and it’s an essential part of continuous improvement.
ABOUT UNICORNS
There is a type of hitch in which one horse is out front of a pair. A unicorn hitch defines the arrangement, which is described as quite difficult to drive.
We know the unicorn from mythology. It symbolizes a fantastic realm where improbable—and desirable— things are realized.
There are many dreamers in business, and a few do actualize their dreams in incredible ways—something like unicorns. But most unicorn-thinkers—like unicorn hitches—are very difficult to contain.
An employee imbued with unicorn thinking can often offer great ideas. But if the ideas distract team members by taking them on tangential paths, the unicorn-thinker is not a good fit.
Dreaming is good. It leads to innovation of all kinds. But there’s a time to give in and follow unicorns and a time to fall in with the team. Unified team members know which time is which CT
CONNELLY VS. UNITED STATES: IMPACTONCOMPANY-OWNEDLIFEINSURANCE PROCEEDSANDBUY-SELLAGREEMENTS
by Ian C. Perry and Roman A. Basi
On June 6, 2024, the Supreme Court released its much-anticipated decision in Connelly v. United States. The court sided with the IRS and held that life insurance proceeds a corporation received to fund a share redemption agreement increased the corporation’s estate tax value, and the corporation’s obligation to redeem the shares was not a liability that decreased the corporation’s value. With the statement being held true, the value of a deceased shareholder’s shares must reflect the corporation’s fair value, including insurance proceeds meant to fund a redemption of shares.
The Connellys, Michael and Thomas, were two brothers who were sole share-holders in Crown. They established a buy-sell agreement funded by a company-owned life insurance policy. The intention of the buy-sell agreement was to keep the corporation in the family. When either brother died, the surviving brother would have an option to purchase the deceased brother’s shares. If that option was declined, Crown would be obligated to purchase the shares, which Thomas Connelly did when his brother died in 2013. Per the buy-sell agreement, the corporation used the life insurance proceeds to redeem the shares.
Michael’s estate filed a federal tax return that listed the value of his estate at $3 million, the amount that Crown paid to redeem the shares. The IRS disagreed by saying that Crown’s redemption obligation did not include the life insurance proceeds. This went on to set Crown’s total value at $6.86 million based on the $3 million and a $3.86 valuation of crown based on the redemption amount paid and Michael’s ownership percentage (77 percent) in Crown. This made Michael’s value in Crown $5.3 million, resulting in an additional estate tax liability of $889,914.
The Connelly decision impacts shareholders who use corporate-owned life insurance to fund equity purchase and buy-sell agreements. This ruling by the Supreme Court resolved a split that was between the Tax Court and some Courts of Appeals. Business owners are going to have to consider the following:
• Reviewing Buy-Sell Agreements— Make sure agreements are structured in the most tax-efficient manner.
• Planning for Future Tax Obligations—Have a strategy to cover potential tax liabilities arising from corporate obligations or share redemptions.
• Cross-Purchase Agreements— These agreements can avoid complications by ensuring insurance proceeds go directly to purchasing shares without inflating estate tax values.
• Evaluating Life Insurance Policies—Review your life insurance policies to make sure they are structured to avoid unexpected tax liabilities.
• Seeking Professional Valuations—Obtain professional valuations to comply with current market values as well as tax regulations.
• Consulting Legal and Tax Experts— Obtain estate planning attorneys as well as tax advisors to review and update corporate structures and agreements to ensure they
align with current regulations. This court case highlights how critical it is to have careful estate planning, understand potential tax implications of corporate agreements, and select the right insurance products. By reviewing and structuring your buy-sell agreements and life insurance policies, and consulting with professionals, you will be able to ensure a smooth ownership transition and minimize tax liabilities.
Ian C. Perry is a staff accountant for The Center for Financial, Legal & Tax Planning. Roman A. Basi is an expert on closely held enterprises. He is an attorney/cpa and the president of The Center for Financial, Legal & Tax Planning. At The Center for Financial, Legal & Tax Planning, Inc. (The Center), our M&A team is equipped with attorneys and CPAs to guarantee you are properly prepared for the exit of a business partner. If you need a buy-sell agreement prepared or would like your current buy-sell agreement reviewed, please feel free to reach out at our website, www.taxplanning.com, or by phone at 618-997-3436. CT
STOCKING A SERVICE TRUCK
Photo by
by Diane M. Calabrese
Aplace for everything, and everything in its place.
Sounds good. But the proverbial does not always mesh perfectly with the practical.
What if a contractor must carry supplementary equipment not used in most jobs? Where will it be placed? Adjustments must be made.
Fold in the admonishment about “carrying everything except the kitchen sink,” and we realize that when outfitting the storage space of a service truck a contractor must make tough decisions. For instance, what’s the cutoff for contents? If a fuse is needed once a year, should a selection of fuses be carried? Fuses don’t take up much space.
What about warning signs like “wet pavement”? They can be clunky to store.
INSIGHTS INTO STOCKING STRATEGY
by George Erskin
Developing a stocking method—Our method of stocking service trucks is the result of a blend of hands-on experience and dedicated research. Initially we relied heavily on trial and error. We’d assess what tools and supplies were most frequently used and what items we found ourselves wishing we had on hand. This experience was invaluable in shaping our initial stocking procedures.
However, experience alone wasn’t enough. We also conducted research, looking into best practices from other industries, consulting with peers, and continuously staying updated on new products and technologies that could improve our efficiency. This combination of practical experience and ongoing research has been key to developing a robust and effective stocking system.
Importance of certain items—One crucial lesson we learned early on was the importance of always having spare parts and backup equipment. For example, there
was an instance when a crucial fitting was missing, causing significant downtime and frustration. Now we ensure that every truck is stocked with a comprehensive set of spare parts, from small fittings to backup nozzles and hoses. These items may seem minor, but having them readily available can be the difference between completing a job efficiently and facing unnecessary delays.
The value of a checklist—Absolutely, contractors should use a checklist like a pilot’s pre-flight inspection. At Cyclone Eco Power Wash we’ve implemented a detailed checklist that our technicians review before leaving the base each day. This checklist covers everything from ensuring all essential tools and supplies are loaded to verifying that the equipment is in proper working order. This routine has significantly reduced the likelihood of arriving at a job site unprepared and has instilled a sense of responsibility and thoroughness in our team.
Ease of access to exactly what’s needed is the priority when stocking a truck. Decisions begin there.
Let’s turn to someone who has given a great deal of thought to how to optimally stock a truck: George Erskin, the cofounder of Cyclone Eco Power Wash in Sacramento, CA.
“Ensuring that our service trucks are well stocked has always been a critical aspect of our operations,” says Erskin. “Over the years I’ve developed a system that combines both experience and research, and I’m pleased to share some insights that could benefit contractors in the field.”
Erskin frames his response in terms of three components. They are developing a stocking method, the importance of certain items, and the value of a checklist. See the sidebar Insights into Stocking Strategy, for his elaboration on the three components.
“While our system is not perfect and is always evolving, the combination of learning from past experiences, conducting ongoing research, and utilizing a comprehensive checklist has greatly improved our operational efficiency,” says Erskin. “For any contractor looking to optimize their service truck stocking process, I highly recommend these approaches.”
In some regions of the country, it’s now possible to hire companies that arrive at residences to organize closets, kitchens, and garages. The staff at the companies sell not only their expertise in storage but also everything from the containers and shelving to new closet, shelf, or cabinet construction required to make a new storage scheme possible.
We are not aware of companies that do the same for owners of service trucks. But no doubt some exist.
Companies that sell service trucks offer abundant advice at their websites about how to best organize the trucks, and there are, as expected, many consistent recommendations. One recommendation that runs through all advice is to put safety first.
We recently had the reminder that carrying a fire extinguisher safely in the cab of a truck requires securing it with brackets. No one wants a fire extinguisher or any other object to become a projectile in a cab.
Similarly, contents of the storage area of a truck—whether a bed or a van space—must be anchored. If contents shift around, they can alter the way the vehicle handles for the driver. In the worst-case scenario they, too, could become projectiles.
Commit to safety. Then proceed.
Start with a sketch. Do a rendering on paper (or digital device) of the storage space and include dimensions.
Make a list. Which machines, ancillaries, etc. are carried to every jobsite?
Make a wish list. Recall and jot down wishes expressed during the last month, such as, “I wish this tool were in the truck,” or “I wish I could secure this machine faster with a more streamlined anchoring system than bungee rope.”
Combine the first list and the wish list and use the consolidated one to decide what the storage area of the truck
WITH CANDID SELFAPPRAISAL—AND TALKS WITH COLLEAGUES IN THE INDUSTRY—EACH CONTRACTOR CAN STOCK A
SERVICE
TRUCK IN A WAY THAT SIMPLIFIES RETRIEVAL AND REPLACEMENT AND MAXIMIZES SAFETY.
should contain on each trip. Then, think about accessibility. How often has it been necessary to move one machine to reach another? Are there too many different tools in a single box—in other words, could they be separated?
Are hoses being stored in a way— preferably sequestered—that ensures they are not damaged in transport? (The tiniest protruding object has a way of contacting and snagging a hose—it’s just some rule of the universe that we can’t counter.)
Could the storage area of the truck benefit from more shelf space (matched with lockdown doors)? Is the interior of the truck too dark? Would the addition of light help with retrieval and initial organization?
And it’s no time for sentimentality. Why am I still carrying around that old wrench? Okay, it might have been among the tools on day one, but it’s never used now.
There’s also no place for laxity. Carrying old boxes or expired chemicals takes up space. It’s also unsafe. (Plan for a thorough cleaning of the interior of the storage area of the truck and the cab at least once per week.)
Don’t stop with the body of the truck when recalling questions that
recur while at jobsites. Think about the cab too. Is paperwork in a metal binder? Is the metal binder secured in the cab?
Commit to do what it takes— time and possibly an investment of money— to reconfigure spaces. Instead of shoving a ladder in the storage space of a truck for the short trek to home base or the next job, invest in a top-of-van or side-bed ladder rack that is easy to load and unload.
With candid self-appraisal—and talks with colleagues in the industry— each contractor can stock a service truck in a way that simplifies retrieval and replacement and maximizes safety. Take the time to get it right.
The organized interior of a service truck benefits the contractor beyond improving activity on the jobsite. It sends a positive message to passersby who may get a look at the storage area and who always have a clear view of the cab. Make the view a good one . CT
MI-T-M INTRODUCES NEW TRUCK-MOUNT PRESSURE WASHERS
Mi-T-M Corporation announces the new CTM Series of pressure washers. These cold-water pressure washers can be mounted to a truck or trailer with a water tank and are ideal for custom cleaning setups.
The new 3000 and 3500-psi pressure washers feature a powder-coated steel frame and mounting plate, powerful Honda OHV engine, belt-drive pump with external bypass, and enclosed belt guard. Both units require a 200-gallon or larger water tank and deliver five to eight gallons per minute of cleaning power.
Each model is designed with mobile cleaning in mind and is customizable with accessories and options such as an extra fuel tank, 50-foot hose, 48-inch lance, rotary surface cleaner, rotating nozzle, and more.
Warranties include a oneyear unloader, three-year engine, and seven-year pump.
For more information on these cold-water pressure washers and other industrial equipment, visit www.mitm.com or call 800-553-9053.
BUGS B’ GONE WITH BUG N’ TAR
Bug N’ Tar, ITD’s new lemon-scented concentrated cleaner, is designed to penetrate, loosen, and dissolve bug proteins and tar splatter without harming painted or chrome surfaces when applied correctly. It can also be used as a prep solution and is very effective in both cold and hot water.
In addition to Bug N’ Tar, ITD offers a broad line of stock industrial detergents and specialized chemical products under both our own name and private label brands along with custom formulation, blending, and packaging to fit the unique needs of individual distributors.
For more information, visit ITDinc.biz, call 800472-1233, or email customerservice2@itdinc.biz.
Note: Product News submissions should be emailed to jkidder@cleanertimes.com. Please be sure that your product announcement is accompanied by a high-resolution photo of the product CT
ZONE 1
American Waterworks, Inc. 13250 Weidner St. Pacoima, CA 91331 818-252-0706
www.americanwaterworks.net
Custom trailer system sales & service.
Nor Cal Pressure Washer Equipment
250-G S. Maple Ave. S. San Francisco, CA 94080 (866) 554-6601
www.norcalpressurewash.com
Hydro Tek Sales & Service, Industrial/Commercial.
Pacific Bay Equipment 609 G Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 578-3925/fax (209) 578-3120
www.pacificbayequipment.com
SF Bay area: 28301 Industrial Blvd. Hayward, CA 94545
ZONE 4
Pressure Systems, Inc.
1646 E. Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 253-9579
www.pressuresystemsinc.com
Experience Makes a Difference. Working With Water & Finding Solutions Since 1965.
Superior Cleaning Equipment
4422 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-257-1357 sceclean.com
ZONE 5
American Cleaning Systems 5261 W. 42nd St. Odessa, TX 79764 (800) 205-7797
www.amcleaning.net
Pressure Washers, Soaps, Degreasers, Hot Shot
Alklean Industries, Inc. 2111 Catalina Dr. Pasadena, TX 77503 (281) 479-5966 www.alklean.com
Hotsy, Mi-T-M, Hydro Tek, Alkota, KEW, Alto, plus many more. POWERWASH.COM 2313 Cold Springs Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76106 (800) 433-2113 www.Powerwash.com
Pressure Washer Sales & Service, Parts, Chemicals. River City Pressure Cleaning Equipment 7306 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78219
It Really Works On Concrete + Asphalt! + Soil! ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY & SAFE TO USE No Solvents—No VOC’s— No Harsh Chemicals. Increase Sales & Profits With EATOILS™ CLEANING PRODUCTS.
