Cleaner Times — November 2024

The Journal for High Pressure Water Applications

NOVEMBER 2024 • $8.00 US

www.cleanertimes.com

Vol 36 No 11 COVER: Design by Joey Phelps

NOVEMBER 2024

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4 6 12 28 32 36 44 50 56 58 60

Editor’s Note Cleaning Electric Vehicles The 2024 Professional Pressure Washing Chemical, Equipment, and Accessory Showcase Portable Heaters—Nothing Beats Safe and Warm Celebrating 35 Years of Excellence: AR North America’s Journey and Future Planning for Financial Growth Financial: Finding the Right Tax Pro Success Stories Service Center Directory Products & Services Directory Advertiser’s Index/Subscription Form

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It was wonderful to talk with so many of you and see you face to face at PowerClean 2024 in Orlando, FL. There is no replacement for in-person interaction. The golf tournament, Women of CETA, and kickoff comedian were all enjoyable and provided good opportunities to catch up on life and laugh together. The educational seminars were informative and thought provoking, and it was beneficial to see so many of the pressure washers and accessories on the tradeshow floor and outside at the demonstrations. Cleaner Times trusts that you also benefited from the various networking opportunities, learned new steps to take in your business via the educational classes, and made plans to add to your equipment inventory while walking on the tradeshow floor or observing the live demonstrations.

For a variety of reasons, we know some of you were not able to attend PowerClean. Therefore, Cleaner Times has decided to provide you with a timely follow-up. On page 12 we present you with the “Professional Pressure Washing Chemical, Equipment & Accessory Showcase.” Each participating company has provided a high-resolution photo and brief written description of a new or important chemical, pressure washer, or accessory that they want those engaged in the pressure washing industry to know about. To learn more about each item, visit the website provide by the participating companies, pick up the phone and call the company, or, if you live close by, drop by in person and view the items.

Cleaner Times is thankful for all our military veterans and hope they are shown honor this Veterans Day. We hope you have a great November, and we wish you a “Happy Thanksgiving!”

Michael Hamline mhamline@cleanertimes.com 800-525-7038

PUBLISHERS Richard Johns Dana Johns EDITOR Michael Hamline mhamline@cleanertimes.com TECHNICAL WRITERS Diane M. Calabrese SALES Josh Kidder • josh@cleanertimes.com SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR Tim Ware • admin@cleanertimes.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Phelps • joey@cleanertimes.com ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION Tammy Hanner accounting@fcapgroup.com Cleaner Times (ISSN #1073-9602) is published monthly by True Source Publishing, LLC 1000 Nix Rd, Little Rock, AR 72211 (800) 525-7038 • (501) 280-0007 Fax: (501) 280-9233 www.cleanertimes.com © Copyright 2024 The publisher and editor(s) of this magazine do not accept responsibility for the content of any advertisement, including statements made by advertisers herein, or the opinions expressed by authors of by-lined articles. The publisher and editor(s) also reserve the right to reject any ad or article for objectionable content in verbiage or images. The intent of this publication is to provide general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. Appropriate legal, financial, or engineering advice or other expert assistance should always be sought from professionals.

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CLEANING ELECTRIC VEHICLES

by Diane M. Calabrese

Photos courtesy of Yujin Anderson of Steamericas.

N

eedless worry? If there’s worry at all…

With the admonition not to mix water and electric current drilled into us from an early age, the prospect of washing an electric-powered vehicle might raise concerns. For instance, we would not think of dousing our electric stove with water when it is connected to the grid.

That’s where the essentials begin.

There is “not really” a reason to be concerned about using water around electric vehicles says Robert Hinderliter, president of Steamaway Inc. in Fort Worth, TX. “Just make sure to unplug them before washing,” says Hinderliter.

Naturally, there are differences between electric and combustion-engine powered vehicles.

“There is not a need for motor degreasing, so there is less need for cleaning under the carriage and engine compartment,” explains Hinderliter.

But that is only half the equation.

Do electric vehicles stay cleaner than combustion-engine vehicles across similar intervals of use and road conditions? “On the exterior, no,” says Hinderliter. “But under the hood, yes.”

Hinderliter explains the difference in a nugget. “There are no petroleumbased emissions to collect on the electric vehicle,” explains Hinderliter.

“Also, there are not leaks from the motor and transmission to splatter around on the frame and undercarriage, creating an attractant to the surface for road film to collect.”

Makers of electric vehicles [EVs] offer abundant information on the how-to of cleaning. And Yujin Yoo Anderson, general manager at Steamericas in Gardena, CA, says that anyone with specific questions should consult the user’s manual.

“For the most part water is okay for EVs,” says Anderson. “Care should still be taken to avoid directly spraying high-pressure water on sensitive areas like charging ports and exposed electrical components.”

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Even at that the risk is minimal.

“The car’s design should protect sensitive areas, but avoiding prolonged exposure to water in these spots is a good precaution,” says Anderson.

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For those accustomed to cleaning vehicles with combustion engines, the focus will change some with an EV as the target. “With EVs, extra attention should be paid to the areas around the charging ports and any

visible electrical components,” says Anderson. “Since EVs have fewer moving parts and no engine bay to worry about, cleaning might be a bit simpler.”

As to whether there is a difference in dirt accumulation that can be directly correlated with the power source for a vehicle, Anderson does not believe so. “It largely depends on the environment and condition it’s driven in,” she explains.

“However, since EVs lack tailpipes, they do not produce exhaust fumes that can contribute to soot and grime buildup on the rear of the vehicle, which might make them slightly cleaner in some cases,” says Anderson.

There are some trends that Anderson notices in EV cleaning. “I am aware that many of our car wash customers—adopters of the Optima Steamer—have a disproportionately large number of EV owners.”

Moreover, Anderson suggests the alignment between EV and steam cleaning is a natural one. “I believe that it is because steam cleaning aligns with the eco-friendly nature of electric vehicles.”

Steam cleaning conserves water and energy. “It reduces water usage by up to 95 percent compared to pressure washing, hence little to no runoff, and typically requires fewer or no chemicals, making it an environmentally responsible method,” explains Anderson.

The commitment that EV owners have to the environment may extend to their willingness to pay a premium to conduct activities in a way that helps protect it. “[Many] EV owners are willing to pay a premium for sustainable methods,” says Anderson.

The Golden State leads the nation in its push to develop rules that improve air and water quality. Compliance often gets a boost from new technologies such as EVs and steam cleaning, as well as the juncture at which the two meet.

“Steam cleaning helps companies to be in compliance with CARB’s

SORE restrictions, AQMD rule 222 in California, and the federal Clean Water Act,” says Anderson. [CARB is the California Air Resources Board, SORE refers to a small off-road engine, AQMD is the Air Quality Management District. The South Coast AQMD, for instance, requires regular filing of emissions data from businesses anchored within its region—a wide swath of Southern California around Los Angeles.]

Some readers may be looking at the rules list Anderson shares and thinking most do not apply. That is a short-sighted perspective given that states across the nation are modeling their rules after those in California.

ADAPTATION

We are in a period of transition.

(True, we could say the same about any point in time. But the rapidity of change makes it remarkable.)

Consequently, new tools and techniques for using and maintaining

them are developing sometimes in parallel and sometimes not.

How to best clean EVs brings many inquiries. “While this may seem pretty basic, this topic comes up daily in our showroom,” says Josh Wagner, retail manager at Atlantic Pressure Washers in Linthicum Heights, MD. “How-to is also becoming a more common inquiry on professional forums,” says Wagner. He adds that given the investment a car owner makes in an EV, it’s understandable there is keen interest in protecting the investment.

Wagner’s company provides website content to help customers. Available content includes instructional videos.

For instance, Kränzle USA offers a K1622TS pressure washer and foam combo, which can be used on the exterior of an EV. “We’ve made an instructional video covering prework needed to wash a Tesla, as well as the safest way to wash it,” says Wagner, adding the video serves

both owner operators and entrylevel auto detailers.

“Our goal in making that content was to support vendors who receive inquiries,” explains Wagner. “As EV technology evolves, so will the processes associated in caring for EVs. Five years from now we will likely have a whole different take on this same topic.”

But back to where we are in 2024.

“Extra care should be taken when washing an EV,” says Wagner. “This point is driven home by the use of many manufacturers installing programs such as ‘car wash mode’ or ‘water mode’ into the EV’s console.”

Wagner explains each manufacturer’s approach is different. But a console selection for car wash mode will typically disable automatic wipers, neutral lock out, and automatic mirrors and door handles. “In some cases it actually creates a temporary vacuum sealing out critical areas that could be exposed—like the charge port.”

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If an EV has a car wash mode, Wagner recommends taking advantage of it. “Beyond that, it’s simply a matter of taking care of the vehicle’s critical areas—not flooding cameras and taking extra care around the trunk or extra compartments.”

Wagner suggests that reflection on the difference between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles gives an owner, car wash operator, or detailer a better feeling

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for where the differences may be important in cleaning. And it reinforces the importance of taking care with high pressure.

“Technically everything is watertight or water resistant from the manufacturer of an EV,” explains Wagner.

“But the manufacturer is accounting for naturally occurring water such as puddles, heavy rainstorms, and brief floods of water as other vehicles splash puddles around it.”

The greatest risk is posed by an autonomous operation or an untrained operator that forces water at an “unnatural angle” into an area that’s “not intended to get wet or saturated,” says Wagner. ICE vehicles are more tolerant of the pressure and the water.

What makes the ICE vehicle more tolerant of errant water? “Due to the way ICE vehicles produce excess heat, even at idle, any fluid resting somewhere critical is quick to evaporate,” explains Wagner. “On an EV, you have heat generation but it’s nowhere close to an ICE.” In addition, electrical components that are water sensitive can short out if they get soaked. There’s not enough heat around those components to dry them out quickly as would happen in an ICE vehicle.

If an EV requires less frequent cleaning, its owner can pay more to ensure that the vehicle gets attention from an exacting and well-matched method— steam, foam plus water, etc.—when it does get a routine cleaning. Still, the are-EVs-cleaner (than ICE vehicles) question lingers.

Does the EV stay cleaner across equivalent intervals? “From our perspective, EVs are cleaner than ICE vehicles,” says Wagner. To illustrate he gives us a comparison between two similarly sized pickup trucks, a Rivian RIT and a Ford Ranger.

Exhaust, road contaminants, and brake dust contribute to soiling. “The EV cuts down drastically on two of these,” says Wagner.

Wagner says he understands the believe-it-or-not take some of us may have when we think about the difference. “Both vehicles are exposed to the same road conditions, but the EV naturally has less pollution than the Ranger, plus minimum brake dust.”

The explanation? “Due to the regenerative braking on the EV, the dust that is present on the Ranger will be drastically heavier than the Rivian,” explains Wagner. “This in turn means the wheel area on the Rivian looks cleaner longer.”

But EVs do not stay clean forever— just a bit longer, perhaps. CT

THE 2024 PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE WASHING

CHEMICAL, EQUIPMENT, AND ACCESSORY

SHOWCASE Editor’s Note: It was good to be together and see everyone at PowerClean 2024 as well as to have the opportunity to view chemicals, equipment, and products in person. Cleaner Times is excited to let companies in the industry showcase their products in these pages so that those who couldn’t make it to PowerClean can still get a little taste of some of the helpful industry products that were displayed in Florida.

AALADIN CLEANING SYSTEMS

8000 Series www.aaladin.com 800-356-3325 Experience the revolutionary 8000 series from AaLadin. These powerful, all-electric machines are capable of 2–4 gpm and 1200–3000 psi and are perfect for situations needing to stay free of open flames and exhaust fumes. They come equipped with top-of-the-line safety features, controls, and removable high-pressure heating elements that heat water instantly. You can be confident that your 8000 Series unit from AaLadin is future proof and ready to stand the test of time.

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ALL JETTING TECHNOLOGIES INC.

ALKOTA CLEANING SYSTEMS

The BD Industrial Series 800-255-6823 ww.alkota.com This cold-water pressure washer has you covered. Whether you choose the wall mount or get the wheeled cart with two casters and two non-flat wheels; the BD fits where you need it. Flow rates range from 2 gpm to 5 gpm with pressures up to 3,000 psi. The BD Series includes a trigger gun, wand, and nozzles. Options include a stainless-steel cover, stainless-steel wheel kit, remote, and different voltages.

Sapphire Nozzles www.alljetting.com info@alljetting.com 772-286-1218 All Jetting Technologies manufactures a vast variety of high-pressure and ultra-high-pressure water-blasting nozzles, including sapphire nozzles such as the ¼-in. (OS4), 3/8-in. (OS6), 7/16-in.

(OS7), 5/16-in. (UHPX), and M10 Metric nozzle. We use polished Swiss sapphire jewels for increased cutting and cleaning power. The durability and quality of our hydroblasting nozzles will give you high performance on your water-blasting jobs.

All Jetting offers free samples of nozzles—just contact us with the orifice size and nozzle type needed for your waterjetting project.

ALL JETTING TECHNOLOGIES INC.

TOUGHJacket™ Waterblast Hoses www.Alljetting.com | 772-286-1218 High-pressure TOUGHJacket™ hoses for waterblast applications are available from All Jetting Technologies. All Jetting Technologies Inc. distributes Parker Hannifin’s high-pressure TOUGHJacket™ waterblast hoses for 35,000 psi to 55,000 psi waterblast applications. The hoses are designed to eliminate the need for an additional PVC sleeve and reduce the hose weight up to 16 percent. This allows for ease of handling, improved productivity, and reduced operator fatigue.

Contractors are loving the lighter weight and reliability of the TOUGHJacket™.

AMERICAN WATERWORKS

ALKOTA CLEANING SYSTEMS

Truck Mount Wash System 800-255-6823 www.alkota.com Here is the all-new, all-in-one mobile truck-washing solution!

It includes a 200-gallon water tank, two hose reels, 100-ft. highpressure hose, 65-ft. low-pressure hose, and nozzles. It fits a standard 5.5-foot pickup bed or flatbed truck.

Standard features include forklift pockets and D-rings for each lifting. It is also available in an 84-foot length. Add an Alkota Hot Water EN Series pressure washer, and you’ll be ready to work.

CleanWave Pressurewashertrailers.com 818-252-0706 or 888-252-8433 American Waterworks trailers, combined with the CleanWave and water tank, give you the power to take on any size job, anywhere. The list is practically endless. CleanWave rides the wave of innovation to propel us toward a cleaner, greener future with zero emissions.

Allow us to introduce a battery-powered, professional cold/hot water pressure washer that provides a cordless solution to tackle heavy-duty cleaning with a runtime of up to four hours.

AR NORTH AMERICA

RF Series Pump www.arnorthamerica.com 800-893-4235 The new Annovi Reverberi RF, Series 538, triplex plunger pumps bridge the pressure and flow gap between our XW and RTX Series lineup.

These pumps feature a compact design with compatible RTX lateral flanges and upgraded internal components. Operating at 5800 psi, they deliver capacities ranging from 5.8 to 10.3 gpm at 1450 rpm. As the pioneering model of its series, it marks the beginning of future advancements in pump technology.

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AR NORTH AMERICA

ML955 www.arnorthamerica.com 800-893-4235 Are you in the market for a new trigger gun? The ML955 trigger gun is designed for ease of use, featuring an easy-pull trigger, soft-touch rubber grip, and stainless-steel inlet pipe.

Rated at a max pressure of 5800 psi, it handles high demands. The gun supports a max flow of 10.6 gpm and withstands temperatures up to 320° F. If you are looking for a gun that performs as well as you do, the ML955 is your ideal choice.

BARENS

Quad and Dual Couplers www.barens.com 800-676-0607 Barens presents an exclusive product, the Quad and Dual Couplers, tailored for soft wash and cold-water pressurewasher applications.

With plastic shrouds produced in-house at the Seneca, PA, Barens’s facility, these couplers arrive preinstalled with ¼-in. FNT quick-connect plugs for effortless setup. Operators can attach various spray nozzles to each plug for seamless transitions. Available in four distinct colors, these couplers allow operators to swiftly switch between setups, enhancing field efficiency.

BE POWER EQUIPMENT

Zinger Hot Water Skid www.bepowerequipment.com 800-663-8331 Introducing the Zinger Hot Water Skid— a robust pressure washer, proudly crafted at BE Power Equipment’s recently acquired Largo facility.

Powered by a Honda GX630, 688cc engine and a triplex Comet pump, it delivers 3,500 psi and 5.2 gpm. Featuring a ceramic plunger pump, stainless-steel control panel, adjustable thermostat, and EPA/ CARB approved 6.5-gallon gas tank, this skid unit includes a Beckett 12V SDC burner for efficient heating.

Equipped with a 50-foot high-pressure hose, color-coded spray nozzles, and trigger gun control, it ensures reliable and powerful hot water cleaning.

BE POWER EQUIPMENT

B4024HTBA: Truck-Mounted, Belt-Driven Pressure Washer, www.bepowerequipment.com 800-663-8331 Engineered for rugged mobility and seamless installation, our truck-mounted beltdriven pressure washer featuring the robust Honda GX690 688cc engine and triplex AR Pump, with an external unloader, is purpose-built for on-the-go cleaning power. Designed to be effortlessly integrated into your mobile truck or trailer pressure-washer system, this unit boasts a tough, powder-coated steel-plate construction that offers unobstructed access to the engine-pump combination. To ensure stability during operation, it rests upon vibration-absorbing rubber pads with secure bolt-through holes, guaranteeing durability and reliability in the most demanding environments.

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BLUBIRD INDUSTRIES

ToughTek Pressure Washing Hose www.blubirdindustries.com 844-769-4673 BluBird Industries is committed to revolutionizing the pressure-washing industry by creating innovative, high-performance products. With a focus on durability and user experience, we deliver cutting-edge solutions like the ToughTek pressure washing hose, designed to withstand the toughest conditions. Our dedication to quality and innovation helps professionals and homeowners achieve superior results, making BluBird Industries a trusted name in pressure-washing equipment.

CAT PUMPS

New Models 7CP6165CSG1, 7CP6165CSG118, 7CP6185CS Plunger Pumps www.catpumps.com 763-780-5440 Built to withstand the rigors of demanding mobile applications, the new Cat Pumps 7CP pump models are perfect for trailer-mounted pressurewashing cleaning equipment. Answering requests from industry leaders, these pumps are rated at 8 gpm and up to 3,500 psi and offer gearbox, belt-drive, or hydraulic motor mounting options. Features like higher-quality seals and 316 stainless-steel valves ensure you spend more time in the field instead of the shop performing unplanned maintenance.

CETA

Make a Difference—Become Part of Your Industry 800-441-0111 www.ceta.org CETA provides solutions to distributors, suppliers, and manufacturers who 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.

Increase Profit—We share data and supply key indicators to help you develop a plan to increase your net profit by 10 percent or more.

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CHAPPELL SUPPLY AND EQUIPMENT

Compact Wash Bay System www.chappellsupply.com 800-525-4970 Chappell Supply and Equipment is proud to showcase their compact wash-bay systems. These come in a variety of pressure and flow options and are an excellent space-saving option. These systems are cost efficient and easy to use. All compact wash-bay systems come equipped with an industrial triplex pump, auto start/stop, five-gallon soap tank, 50-ft. hose reel with high-visibility safety hose, and added wall-mount capabilities. For more information contact Chappell Supply and Equipment at 1-800-525-4970 or visit www.chappellsupply.com.

COTHERM

GTL Series www.cothermna.com 401-732-2918 Cotherm has manufactured bulb and capillary thermostats for more than 75 years. Cotherm thermostats are a perfect fit for temperature control in pressure washing applications.

Made to withstand high pressures and offered with a variety of fittings, our thermostats are available in both standard and custom configurations from our Rhode Island warehouse.

Visit our website or “Cotherm NA” on LinkedIn to learn more about what we have to offer. We stand behind our quality, competitive pricing, and customer service.

CHIERICI TITO (CT)

Black Trigger Universal Spray Gun www.chiericitito.it/en/azienda 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 stainlesssteel 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 under 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.

COILS-R-US

Heater Chassis www.coils-r-us.com 479-549-3880 Do you wash your dishes with cold water?

Make your cold-water machine HOT today!

Heater Chassis Available—Vertical, Horizontal, Gas Engine Skids. Give us a call to see what fits your needs at 479-549-3880.

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COMET

BPX25 www.cometpump.com | 800-864-1649 The new Comet BPX 25 series diaphragm pump delivers a maximum flow rate of 7.5 gpm at 215 psi, ideal for softwash applications. Built with durable polypropylene and stainless-steel wet parts, it handles aggressive chemicals with ease while ensuring low maintenance. Featuring a ¾-in. hollow shaft gearbox, it installs effortlessly to gas engines or VIPower™ electric motors.

The BPX 25’s two Desmopan diaphragms ensure long-lasting, reliable performance.

DECO PRODUCTS

TravaCast www.decoproducts.com 800-500-DECO Deco TravaCast is a single component sealer designed to bring a high shine to porous and nonporous surfaces.

Deco TravaCast will leave a durable coating, helping to reduce stains and damage to your substrate. Because Deco TravaCast is a single-part sealer, there is never waste or mistakes on your jobsite. Simply replace the lid and take any left over to your next job.

COMET

P40 www.cometpump.com 800-864-1649 The new and improved Comet P 40 series diaphragm pump delivers 11.0 gpm at 300 psi, ideal for soft-wash applications. Its enhanced bolt-on regulator absorbs pressure spikes from internal bypass systems, preventing leaks and improving durability. The solidblock manifold reduces leak points and enhances suction for better resistance to surges. Built with chemical-resistant wet parts, it handles aggressive chemicals with ease and installs easily on gas engines or VIPower™ electric motors with a ¾-in. hollow-shaft gearbox.

ETOWAH CHEMICAL SALES & SERVICE

Super Chief Red Apple www.etowahchemicals.com | 800-848-8541 Super Chief Red Apple is specifically designed as a bleach addictive. It contains a red/pink dye that helps mark where the cleaner has already been applied. This reduces the overspray and eliminates chemical waste. The red apple scent will help mask the bleach odor. This surfactant is super concentrated. For roof washing add two quarts of Red Apple to 100 gallons of water and then run it through your proportioner; for house washing dilute one quart to 100 gallons of water and run through the proportioner.

FARLEY’S INC.

Custom Machine and Heater Kits www.farleysinc.com 800-522-COIL (2645) Farley’s Inc. has the capability and flexibility to meet your custom kit and metal fabrication needs for your specific application. These units can be manufactured for diesel, kerosene, propane, or natural gas.

Fabrication is with mild steel or stainless steel, including stainless steel coils if needed. There are unlimited possibilities with these custom-made kits! Call Farley’s Inc. at 800 522-2645; we look forward to hearing from you!

COXREELS® Extreme Duty XTM Series

Coxreels.com | 800-269-7335 Coxreels proudly introduces the Extreme Duty XTM Series Spring Rewind Reel. Born from the coalescing fires of the highest-strength springs, stainless-steel rollers, dual-sintered bronze bearings, multiple axle supports, and welded box frames, the XTM Reel combines the ultimate features into the world’s most robust reel solution. As with all Coxreels’ reels, the XTM Series is USA-made with Coxreels’ legendary quality and will satisfy your application’s hose management needs.

GENERAL PUMP

DHRA Stainless-Steel Hose Reels www.generalpump.com 888-474-5487 General Pump’s DHRA stainless-steel hose reels are designed and built to withstand aggressive environments, from agriculture and soft wash to the food industries.

These are available in 150 ft., 300 ft., and 450 ft. length, 3/8-in. hose capacity. The fullflow, stainless-steel swivel can withstand pressures up to 5000 psi and temperatures up to 250°F. The A-frame design allows for mounting on floors, walls, trucks, trailer beds, and more.

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GRAFFITI SOLUTIONS Elephant Snot® & Graffiti Removal Products www.graffitisolutions.com | 800-891-0091

Graffiti Solutions manufactures a comprehensive line of graffiti removal products that tackle everything from the toughest multicolor tags on brick walls to marks on the finest automobile finishes and everything in between. Elephant Snot® is a viscous gel that clings to vertical surfaces, resists drying out on sun-drenched walls, and is effective down to 20°F. Our readily biodegradable, low-odor, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) products are easy to use and WILL make money for you.

HANNAY REELS

PW-2 Series ManualRewind Hose Reels www.hannay.com 877-GO-REELS (467-3357) PW-2 Series manual-rewind hose reels from Hannay Reels provide a lightweight, compact, and versatile solution for mobile and portable pressure-wash equipment. Designed for ⅜- to ½-in. inside diameter hose, PW-2 reels can handle pressures up to 5000 psi and fluid temperatures from 32 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, with extended temperature ratings available.

HYDRUS DETERGENTS

Grease Cutter www.hydrusdetergents.com 712-765-1060 Grease Cutter penetrates grease, oil, and dirt, leaving a clean surface that is free rinsing, and creates a barrier between the stain and surface, removing oxidation.

Its non-corrosive nature is perfect for cleaning electrical components on agricultural and industrial equipment. When diluted, it can be used as a house, roof, and gutter wash. It is safe for use around plants. It’s a versatile cleaner and degreaser effective as a wash and wax product and contains exclusive anti-scale additives to prevent scale and coil clogging. It is ideal for trucks, fifth-wheels, mobile homes, cars, farm, home, industry, marine, or auto. Available in kits, pails, drums, and totes.

HYDRAMOTION

ECO Wash Series of Exterior Cleaners Hydramotion.us 800-726-1526 The SideWinder™ surface cleaner has always been the stateof-the art pressure washer accessory. HydraMotion now offers products including LFC-423 for floors, MCA555 for mold removal, and KE-4095 or DC-4023 for degreasing. All our cleaners deliver superior cleaning results while still being biodegradable, nontoxic, plant friendly, safe for children and pets, and cost effective! All products are manufactured in HydraMotion’s ISO-9000 compliant facility in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Email us at sales@hydramotion.us or call 800-726-1526 to become a distributor.

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IDROBASE GROUP

New DOLLY Spare Parts® www.idrobasegroup.com + 39 049 933 5903 The DOLLY spare parts line has now expanded to include compatible spare parts for Chinese pumps. These are Made-in-Italy spare parts, qualitatively superior to the originals but priced in line with reference markets: thus, at the same price, the lifespan and reliability of the pump are doubled. The line offers, from a single supplier, everything necessary for the maintenance or repair of over 1,500 high pressure-washer pumps from the 20 largest brands in the world.

ITD CHEMICAL

Mark Block www.itd.biz | 800-472-1233 Mark Block is a clear, water-based sacrificial coating that protects surfaces from graffiti. Mark Block acts as a barrier, preventing spray paints, crayons, and ink from penetrating and staining.

It offers cost-effective protection against chronic graffiti without the need for heavy-duty strippers, reducing the risk of surface damage—all without altering the appearance of the surface.

ITD CHEMICAL

Ready Rinse www.itd.biz | 800-472-1233 Ready Rinse is the ultimate solution for contractors seeking improved rinsability in their soft wash process.

Traditionally, many have resorted to adding glass cleaners to their bleach mix, despite these products often being incompatible with bleach and failing to enhance rinsability. Ready Rinse was developed to address this issue directly.

Specifically formulated to improve the rinse process on windows, Ready Rinse ensures a more efficient and effective cleaning experience, eliminating the need for improvised solutions and delivering superior results every time.

J.E. ADAMS INDUSTRIES

Weep & No Weep Trigger Gun— 5030NP & 5030NPW www.jeadams.com | 800-553-8861 J.E. Adams Industries’ trigger guns stand as a testament to exceptional durability and reliability, meticulously engineered to thrive in the most demanding environments. Crafted with an exterior of tough plastic, with highquality brass and stainless-steel components, these trigger guns are built to endure rigorous use while maintaining peak performance. No need to discard your trusted tool; our readily available replacement parts ensure that your trigger gun can be easily revitalized, enhancing the value of your investment.

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KLEEN-RITE

Issue 65 of the Kleen-Rite Pressure Wash Catalog www.pressure washersupplier.com 800-233-3873 Issue 65 of the Kleen-Rite Pressure Wash Catalog is out now!

This thorough, all-encompassing magazine continues to serve as a must-have resource for pressure washers of any scale, commercial or at home. Parts, supplies, and chemicals are neatly categorized for simple identification and ordering.

You can pick out a surface cleaner or rotating nozzle just as easily as a pressure-washing hose or thermal relief switch. So, grab your pressurewash magazine today or check out pressurewashersupplier.com!

LATIMAT 2.0

Latimat 2.0 Containment Mat www.latimat.net 416-579-5845 The Latimat 2.0 Containment Mat has been designed to catch every product that is washed or deiced. This includes (but is not limited to) brake dust, oil, grease, and detergents from de-icing planes, car detailing, and other cleaning jobs. It is our responsibility to supply you with reliable products to protect the environment from this waste going into our drains.

The Latimat is available in three types—foam, air berm, and L-bracket perimeters—and is drive on-drive off in any size configuration.

LEASE CONSULTANTS CORPORATION

EquipMoney.com www.equipmoney.com 800-325-2605 EquipMoney.com is your fast, simple, and secure solution for financing commercial equipment, trusted by dealers and businesses alike. For over 45 years, Lease Consultants Corporation has offered flexible payment plans tailored to fit any budget.

Dealers can integrate our financing tools directly into their websites and stores, providing easy access to our online credit application. Our online financing tools are accessible 24/7 from any device. End users enjoy fast approvals and secure transactions through DocuSign and exceptional customer service. Start financing your business growth today at www.equipmoney.com or call 800-325-2605.

20 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

MI-T-M CORPORATION

DHG Series Hot Water Pressure Washer www.mitm.com | 800-553-9053 Powerful and portable, this 4000 psi, 3.7-gpm hot-water pressure washer is built to blast away the toughest grime and grease. It features an industrial OHV engine and a bottom-fired heat exchanger with a 12V Beckett burner and adjustable thermostat. This pressure washer comes with a 50-foot hose, dual lance, and five nozzles, including a wet steam nozzle, and is available exclusively from your Mi-T-M dealer.

NILFISK HPW

Eagle Series Belt Drive EB4042HV-20 www.Pressure-Pro.com 772-461-4486 Built to stand up to the toughest jobs, the dependable Eagle Series Belt Drive, EB4042HV-20, has been trusted for decades by cleaning professionals.

The EB4042HV-20 offers even more features to take your cleaning performance to the next level with our interlocking belt guard, tri-belt design, and pull straight belt-tensioning system.

This model also features our proprietary Viper pump. Check out our expanding Viper pump offering at www.pressurepro.com/products/pumps.

PRESSURE SYSTEMS INNOVATIONS

POWERJET

Fill & Play powerjetpressure.com | 877-765-9211 PowerJet’s Fill & Play Packages are selfcontained and hassle-free units that can be filled with fuel, water, and chemicals and moved wherever needed. All skid frames are constructed from fully welded, powder-coated steel tubing for a lasting finish and have lifting eyes and forklift slots for loading and unloading. Fully customizable—choose the machine, water tank, hose reel, and accessories to fit your needs. Find out more about our self-contained cleaning systems today at www.powerjetpressure.com or email sales@powerjetpressure.com.

POWERJET

Enclosed Trailers powerjetpressure.com | 877-765-9211 PowerJet is proud to offer purpose-built, quality, enclosed trailers built in our factory specifically for pressure/steam washer applications. We realized that even the best trailers available could not withstand municipal, oil field, logging, and industrial contractors’ applications. So we said, “Enough is enough!

Sometimes when others can’t do something right, you must do it yourself.” Top-quality features make our trailer the best-built trailer in the business—built for four-season pressurewasher applications. For more information, visit www.powerjetpressure.com or email sales@powerjetpressure.com.

Bandit Hose Reel www.pressuresystems innovations.com sales@pressuresystems innovations.com Check out the new Bandit hose reel constructed from a heavy-gauge aluminum base with a stainless-steel manifold, which holds up to high pressure as well as chemical applications.

Each hose reel comes with a premium ball-bearing support swivel with a grease fitting for serviceability. It also boasts aluminum discs, a PVC spool, molded resin blocks, and stainless-steel hardware to hold up to the toughest environments. Stainless-steel stacking kits are available as well to minimize the footprints when mounting. Available in 12-in. to hold up to 300 ft. of 3/8-in hose or 18-in to hold up to 450 ft. of 3/8-in. hose.

PROPULSE, A SCHIEFFER COMPANY

UberFlex® Commercial Pressure Washer Hose www.powermovingforward.com 563-583-4758 ProPulse has upgraded the standard cold-water pressure-washer hose to a lightweight, uber-flexible, UV- and ozone-resistant cleaning hose. The patented hose has a working pressure of 4000 psi and 140°F (max) temperature.

UberFlex® weighs 10 percent less than the standard one-wire rubber hose, and the textured polyurethane cover offers less snagging and drag resistance, reducing user fatigue.

Learn more about UberFlex® and our other hoses at www.powermovingforward.com or email sales@powermovingforward.com.

PWNA

Elevate Your Skills and Safety 800-393-7962 www.pwna.org Become a leader in technical, safety, and compliance training with PWNA. Our comprehensive, online system offers flexible learning options, including in-person and online classes for members. Enterprise Membership: For $99/month or $999/year, access unlimited training, including certification and compliance classes. Exceptions apply. First Aid Safety: Master emergency response for injuries, wounds, and hazards on job sites. Be prepared for any situation. Solar Safety: Address hazards in solar panel cleaning for all sectors. Enhance hazard assessment and mitigation skills. Flatwork Certification: Dive deep into flat surface cleaning techniques. Learn wand vs. surface cleaner, chemical selection, gum removal, and water recovery. Elevate your expertise with PWNA. Visit our website at www.pwna.org.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 21

R.W. BECKETT

ADC Oil Burner beckettcorp.com 800-645-2876 The Beckett ADC oil burner is designed for applications where an AC power source is not an option. Available in two variations, the 12- and 24-volt DC-powered burners can be connected to a battery source for mobile jobs where uptime and operational consistency are required. Engineered and built with high-quality components, the ADC burners feature some of the lowest operating amps in the industry, which means you will have longer run times on a single charge, plus potted controls provide resistance to shock, vibration, and moisture.

SCALTROL

SC-50 & SC-100 www.scaltrolinc.com 800-868-0629 Scaltrol’s hard-water solutions help commercial customers beat scale buildup, saving them from costly downtime and expensive maintenance repairs.

To combat corrosion and scaling, Scaltrol scale control systems deposit a microscopic film of polyphosphate sequestrant to all surfaces using our patented venturi dispensing heads. Scaltrol units are easy to install because they are nonelectrical, nonmagnetic, and nonmechanical. To learn more, go to www.scaltrolinc.com or call 800-868-0629.

SCALTROL

SC-500 www.scaltrolinc.com 800-868-0629 Scaltrol’s industrial hard-water solution is for hot-water or coldwater applications requiring high pressure and high volume. The Scaltrol SC-500 treats approximately 500,000 gallons of water, providing effective protection to your application from hard-water scale buildup and preventing costly downtime and expensive maintenance and repairs. To learn more, go to www.scaltrolinc.com or call 800-868-0629.

22 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

SPRAYMART PRESSURE WASHER PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

Legacy Pressure Washer Parts Spraymart.com | 800-752-0177 At Spraymart we have the most extensive collection of top-notch components for the pressure washing industry. We’re thrilled to present Legacy pressure washer parts and accessories. Our Legacy line offers top quality at an affordable price, including flat surface cleaners, highpressure pumps, hoses, and much more.

Whether you’re a pro looking for high performance or a homeowner looking for equipment way better than consumergrade offerings, Legacy has you covered!

STANDARD PAINTS INC.

Wood Defender 200 Series www.wooddefender.com 800-658-KOTE Wood Defender 200 Series by Standard Paints Inc. offers exterior wood advanced protection against the elements with a unique formula of modified oils and resins. Designed to repel water and resist UV damage, it also contains anti-mildew and anti-fungal additives that help wood resist graying during the life of the stain.

With fast curing, it’s ideal for decks or high-traffic surfaces. Backed by a twoyear warranty. Ask for The Brand. Request a free sample at WoodDefender.com.

STEEL EAGLE

Flight Line Premium Surface Cleaner www.steeleagle.com 800-447-3924 Introducing the all-new Steel Eagle “flight line” premium surface cleaner! This all-new line of industrial-grade surface cleaners from Steel Eagle features a fully welded “frame over deck” design, ensuring the weight of the unit is on the frame and casters, not the deck, increasing the life of your unit. This lineup features a durable four-caster design for 360° maneuverability with a free-floating handle with lock pin. Other features include a heavy-duty, lightweight aluminum deck; fully welded one-piece spray bar; and Steel Eagle’s exclusive maximum-duty TALON 4 swivel. Available in 24-in. and 30-in. sizes.

SUTTNER AMERICA COMPANY

Telescoping Lances www.suttner.com 800-831-0660 One of our many new items in 2024 is the telescoping lances. This item is the perfect tool for cleaning high-to-reach areas safely without using a lift. We have three length options available: 6–12 feet, 6–18 feet, and 8–24 feet. The lance is paired with our new ST-602 industrial-proven spray gun, and the handle is ergonomic with an insulated grip and nonslip molded handle. For more information, visit www.suttner.com or call 800-831-0660.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 23

TRUEBITE

RNVAC Hydrovac 2 607-786-2139 www.RNVac.com What’s that? It is the RNVAC Hydrovac 2! The RNVAC Hydrovac 2 is a compact, powerful vacuum designed for tough industrial jobs. It can quickly suck up 20 gallons of water in less than 12 seconds—ideal for handling sludge, sand, and small aggregates, etc. The unit is highly portable and fits on a steel construction-grade wheelbarrow. It features a 120V motor, a 12-foot hose, and tools for various applications. Weighing only 42 pounds, it’s easy to transport and clean. Visit www.RNVac.com.

UDDER TECH INC.

Waterproof Workwear www.uddertechinc.com 888-438-8683 Udder Tech offers waterproof workwear that is lightweight and machine washable. The waterproof bibbed overalls and jackets fit nicely over your clothes to keep you dry. The jacket is available with a unique thumbhole design that keeps your wrists and arms dry. For the best fit, put on the jacket with your thumb through the thumbhole and wear nitrile gloves over the top. This keeps any water from getting in your sleeves and running up your arms.

VAL6

FIR-X5 www.jsowill.com | 360-226-3637 VAL6 maintains class-leading performance and efficiency while bringing new innovations to the heating industry. In addition to the models that industry professionals already rely on, the new FIR Series brings all the benefits of infrared heating with none of the drawbacks of an open flame. The enclosed flame design safely protects the flame within the unit, away from possible contact. VAL6 continues to operate with far greater efficiency than competitors. Can you afford not to use VAL6?

Valley Industries UDOR USA

Direct Drive Plunger Pumps www.udorusa.com 651-785-0666 UDOR USA offers gas and electric direct-drive models for simplified configurations without compromising quality and durability. Our PN Series is available in ¾-in. hollow-shaft, gas-engine flange and 5/8-in. hollow-shaft, NEMA 56C electric motor flange models. Our B Series is available in 1-in. hollow-shaft, gas-engine flange and 11/8-in. hollow-shaft, NEMA 182/184 TC electric motor flange models. For more information call 651785-0666 or email info@udorusa.com.

24 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

VX-120/VX-200 www.valleyind.com 800-864-1649 The VIPower™ VX-120 (3.4 HP) and VX-200 (6.7 HP) electric motors deliver top-tier performance with intuitive controls, allowing precise speed adjustments from 600 to 3600 rpm. Featuring soft start, IP65-rated protection and Grade-A LiFePO4 batteries, they ensure unmatched durability, quiet operation, and near-zero maintenance. These motors seamlessly replace gas engines in soft washing, pressure washing, and more, providing efficient, cleaner power for demanding applications and environments.

WAYNE COMBUSTION SYSTEMS

VECTOR CHEMICALS

Hurricane www.vectorchemicals.com 800-331-0347 Vector’s Hurricane is a very heavy-duty degreaser concentrate developed for the toughest of cleaning and degreasing jobs. It is outstanding for cleaning heavy equipment, trains, trucks, engines, concrete, tools, floors, and much more and is extremely effective, whether used with pressure washers, floor scrubbers, mop buckets, or manual cleaning.

It is recommended to start at dilutions of 80 parts water to 1 part Hurricane and adjust as needed. Completely biodegradable. Let your dirt and grease be blown away with Vector’s Hurricane.

Gas- and Oil-Fired Burners www.wayne combustion.com 800-443-4625 Gas- and oil-fired burners from Wayne Combustion Systems are engineered for longlasting, reliable performance at a competitive price. Made in the USA, our products are backed by 90-plus years of innovation, development, and production.

Wayne’s oil-fired burners are available from 0.50 gph to 13.00 gph.

Additionally, our oil-fired burners feature a no-drip nozzle adapter for drip-free operation, adjustable flange or base mounting option, and interlocking multiple air-adjustment bands for positive air control.

WHISPER WASH

Hydro Flow Premium and Infinity Spray Bars www.whisper-wash.com | 727-577-1292 Whisper Wash is excited to introduce the next generation of spray bars! The new hydro-flow spray bar pushes the limits in precision and performance, a multi-dynamic hybrid design with greater flow and removable spray bar arms. It is quick and efficient. The most rugged and durable spray bar—the hydro flow infinity— is our exclusive design. It is a major step up in performance and consists of a lightweight aluminum center hub and a high-strength, stainless-steel outer arm. This decreases the overall weight and supercharges longevity.

Patent pending design.

VELOCI PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS

PRIMA Stainless-Steel Fittings and Kobrajet Hose www.velociperformance.com 952-737-5211 Veloci Performance Products provides the power cleaning industry with parts and accessories your business—and its customers—need.

Veloci delivers on quality, selection, and expertise and has embarked on manufacturing to further build out its product offerings, including the PRIMA stainless-steel fittings line and Kobrajet hose, assembled in-house at the VPP HQ in Minnesota. The HydroJet brand is also another well-known product line from Veloci. This includes surface cleaners, high pressure pumps, various nozzles, and soft wash accessories.

WOODRICH BRANDS

Timber Oil Stain www.woodrichbrand.com 636-288-8512 Trusted by contractors since 1998, Woodrich Brand offers premium wood cleaners, strippers, and brighteners. Enhance your services with our Timber Oil Stain, available in five stock colors and a clear color for maintenance applications. Enjoy fast, free shipping and exclusive contractor discounts. Dealer inquiries are welcome! Elevate your deck, fence, or log cabin restoration projects with products proven to deliver stunning results. Visit WoodrichBrand.com today!

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 25

X-JET TECHNOLOGIES INC.

DS Twist www.xjetnozzle.com 800-983-7467 The DS Twist is a tough, adjustable downstream soft-wash nozzle reaching heights of up to 60 feet dependent on your machine’s gpm, meaning no more switching tips to get different spray patterns and height reach. Enjoy versatility with a DS Twist and shoot! Email at sales@xjetnozzle.com or call 800-983-7467 to find a distributor near you or become one!

X-JET TECHNOLOGIES INC.

The Original X-Jet and X-Jet M5 www.xjetnozzle.com 800-983-7467 The X-Jet nozzle is a contractor favorite with its true external injection system, introducing cleaning agents after your pump, hose, gun, lance, and fittings and reaching heights of up to 40 ft. or more depending on your machine.

It is available as the Original X-jet and the adjustable X-Jet M5. Contractors cut labor time and save money on costly repairs on equipment.

26 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

Photo by iStockphoto.com/MileA 28 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

U

npredictable weather is often redundant.

Even so, in August, the Climate Prediction Center (CPC) at the National Weather Service issued a temperature outlook for September, October, and November. CPC reported that the majority of the contiguous U.S. states would experience above-normal temperatures for the period.

There are no predictions yet for December and beyond as we write in September. But we can anticipate that exceptionally few parts of the nation, if any, will be so consistently hospitable that no auxiliary heat source will be required.

Can portable heaters be an important ancillary for contractors? “Yes, especially in the colder climates and during the winter months,” says Karl Loeffelholz, distributor division manager, Mi-T-M Corporation in Peosta, IA. “It is important to have a comfortable working environment—it can improve productivity and help avoid delays on projects,” explains Loeffelholz. “Portable heaters are versatile and are easy to move around a jobsite.”

A contractor should consider several factors when choosing a portable

heater, says Loeffelholz. One is the area to be heated. “A larger space will require a heater with a higher BTU rating or heating capacity.”

Fuel type must also be weighed.

“Portable heaters can be powered by various fuels, including propane, natural gas, diesel, kerosene, and electricity,” explains Loeffelholz.

Ventilation becomes an essential factor to consider for any heater that is not electric powered. “All heaters that burn fuel require proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup,” explains Loeffelholz.

But safety features must be components of any type of heater, says Loeffelholz. “Look for heaters with features such as automatic shut-off, overheat protection, and tip-over protection to prevent accidents.”

Distributors may benefit from both using and selling portable heaters.

“Portable heaters appeal to a wide range of customers, including contractors, homeowners, and industrial users,” says Loeffelholz. “They’re also more in demand during the winter months and can help drive seasonal sales and boost revenue during slower periods for other products.”

A portable heater may be tapped as needed, adding flexibility in the workplace. “Distributors can use

portable heaters to keep their unheated workspaces comfortable or have back-up heating in emergencies,” explains Loeffelholz. Manufacturers can use them “to heat specific areas or warehouses, keeping the temperature comfortable for employees and at ideal conditions for materials or products.”

USE, SELL, AND RENT

Portable heaters provide opportunities across our industry. In use, they improve working conditions for contractors and make cold spaces inhabitable.

Moreover, distributors that carry portable heaters can both sell them and rent them. And distributors should think of portable heaters as “something they can rent out to contractors,” says Delany Johnson, senior sales engineer at Wayne Combustion Systems in Fort Wayne, IN. Distributors who serve customers at latitudes with distinct seasons and unpredictable winters can open an important line of sales with portable heaters on the product roster. The distributors should be prepared to provide the expert help that contractors require to use the heaters correctly and to their maximum advantage.

For example, there are many questions that a contractor—with assistance

PORTABLE HEATERS NOTHING BEATS SAFE AND WARM

by Diane M. Calabrese Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 29

OVERALL, WHEN CHOOSING A PORTABLE HEATER, THE BASICS DO NOT CHANGE. “I BELIEVE THE MOST IMPORTANT CRITERION IS HEAT OUTPUT,” SAYS YOSHITAKE. BUT THE OUTPUT MUST BE CONSIDERED IN CONJUNCTION WITH “FUEL EFFICIENCY” THAT WILL INFORM COST OF OPERATION, AND “QUALITY” FIRST AND FOREMOST. from a distributor—will want to answer, says Johnson. “What is the size of space they need to heat? What fuel do they want to heat with? Is this temporary or permanent heat?”

There’s another question specific to the distributor who is planning inventory. “Which size heaters are

30 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

most commonly used?” says Johnson.

Understanding the ways portable heaters are used and knowing well the needs of customers in the locale where a distributor is anchored will inform the decision of a distributor to carry portable heaters. The heaters can be a good way to fill out product offerings, explains Johnson.

And, of course, distributors also use portable heaters in-house to “help them add heat to an area,” says Johnson. Contractors can gain working hours with the correct portable heater.

“The heater keeps the area where their crews are working warm enough to work in comfortable conditions.”

Manufacturers are firmly in the picture, too. They not only make portable heaters, but they also deploy them.

“Often, in manufacturing plants there is not enough central heat like we have in offices,” says Ken Yoshitake, president and CEO of J.S. O’will Inc.in Federal Way, WA. “In colder temperatures equipment—machinery—can stop working if the ambient temperature is low.”

Anything that slows down the start-up or impedes the continuity of a manufacturing process causes a problem for the manufacturer.

“Having portable heaters would help manufacturers to minimize, if not

eliminate, downtime due to colder temperatures,” Yoshitake.

As for the type of portable heater that serves well in a manufacturing setting, Yoshitake has a definite recommendation. “Simply, nothing works better than portable infrared heat,” he says. More than being “portable”—at the ready when needed to boost air temperature—infrared heat can “achieve maximum heat efficiency.”

The decision to add portable heaters to a product line is very much an individual one for each distributor.

Weighing it begins with understanding “the function of the distributor,” says Yoshitake.

“For our Val6 heaters, our distributors sell to their direct dealers,” explains Yoshitake. “Having the best product for heat source is key in the success of their dealers, which would only benefit the distributor. Distributors sell more than one product, so having a portable heater in their product line is important so that they could offer options for customers needing heat.”

Specifically, says Yoshitake, the distributors for his company’s heaters sell only one or two products. And their success depends on selling “the best portable heater on the market.”

His company has reached the 20-year mark in the United States.

Overall, when choosing a portable heater, the basics do not change. “I believe the most important criterion is heat output,” says Yoshitake. But the output must be considered in conjunction with “fuel efficiency” that will inform cost of operation, and “quality” first and foremost.

Regarding the alignment of heat output, efficiency, and quality, Yoshitake says that it can be made perfectly. And “it can all be done in a manner that is safe and best for the user and the environment.”

SAFETY

Manufacturers and distributors focus on safety as an integral part of doing business. In the realm of portable heaters, as with all products, they receive input on best practices—and expected practices—from federal, state, and local regulators.

Start with OSHA [Occupational Safety and Health Administration]. Standard 1926.154—Temporary heating devices— enumerates the regulations for use of portable heaters. The necessary requirements begin with ventilation.

If a heater is used in a confined space, ventilation must be sufficient to not only ensure proper combustion but also ensure no one on the jobsite is overcome by inhalation of combustion products (e.g., carbon monoxide).

OSHA also specifies that the heater must be mounted to have sufficient clearance, be stable (level), and be equipped with safety controls to stop the flow of fuel if there is a failure.

That’s the short list.

OSHA standard 1926.154 falls under 1926 Subpart F, Fire Protection and Prevention. As with all OSHA standards, the expectation is that an employer will comply with the regulations. An incident or an inspection that reveals noncompliance can result in fines (or even imprisonment in serious incidents).

Here’s an interesting fact about the limitations on the use of portable heaters. Using a portable heater (or fan or similar device) in a facility controlled by the federal government requires

authorization from the building manager for the entity. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA.gov), part of the Department of Homeland Security (HHS), has a component known as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA).

The USFA provides a great deal of valuable information on safe heating in the context of fire safety. For example, kerosene heaters should only be purchased if they have been tested by a recognized testing laboratory. They should be equipped with an automatic shut-off to stop fuel flow if the heater tips. And they should only be filled outdoors after they have been cooled.

The PDF guides available at the USFA website (usfa.fema.gov), such as the one on kerosene heaters, are excellent resources for contractors, distributors, and manufacturers.

What are the regulations concerning portable heaters beyond those from the federal government? It all depends upon location. States and

local governments both get involved in regulating portable heaters.

New York City requires a permit (renewable annually) be obtained before using a portable fueled space heater at a construction site. To obtain the permit, the applicant must document liability insurance. In addition, there are three certificates the applicant must attain.

The certificates demonstrate that there will be proper supervision, fire guards (employees to make sure nothing goes awry), and suitable storage of the fuel.

An inspection to ascertain everything is in place is also required.

Distributors that sell portable heaters can be of great help to their customers by predetermining whether any local or state permits are required by contractors using heaters at jobsites. Sharing information about permit application process(es) is a good way to connect with contractors. It’s also a good way to enhance safe practices across the industry.

Nothing beats safe and warm. CT

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 31

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE:

AR NORTH AMERICA’S JOURNEY AND FUTURE

by Robert Piedade

32 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

A

s we celebrate AR North America’s 35th anniversary, we reflect on a journey marked by innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Founded in 1989 as the North American branch of Annovi Reverberi S.p.A. of Italy, AR North America (ARNA) has grown into a leading supplier of high-pressure plunger pumps and accessories, serving diverse markets across North America.

From our humble beginnings under the visionary leadership of Ralph Notch, ARNA has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our products, ranging from pressure washer pumps to high-performance accessory components, have set industry standards and earned the trust of countless customers.

Our success is built on a foundation of integrity, honesty, and respect—values that have guided us since our inception. These principles are deeply ingrained in our corporate culture and are evident in every interaction with our customers, partners, and employees. As we look back on our achievements, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of our community and the hard work of our dedicated team.

Today ARNA is proudly led

by Ralph Notch’s two sons, Jon Notch (CEO) and Kyle Notch (president). Under their leadership the company continues to thrive, embracing innovation while staying true to the core values that have defined us for decades.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the future. Innovation remains at the heart of our mission, driving us to continuously improve and expand our product offerings. The third generation of the Reverberi family is already deeply integrated into our company, making significant strides to advance our legacy of excellence and customer focus.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 33

As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we remain committed to delivering exceptional products and services that meet the evolving needs of our customers. We

34 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone and look forward to many more years of success and innovation.

Thank you for being a part of our story.

CT

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 35

PLANNING FOR FINANCIAL GROWTH

by Diane M. Calabrese

Photo by iStockphoto.com/Jonas Rönnbro 36 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

S

o slender are the resources on which some businesses launch that experts refer to “lean” business plans.

Then, there’s the colloquialism of starting on a shoestring.

But a company cannot hang by a thread forever. At some point a startup will either fail or flourish.

Initially flourishing is in the form of sustainability. The owner can take a salary that meets the needs for a regular income stream and maintain the many requirements of the business (e.g., insurance, loan repayment, and inventory).

Eventually, a company experiences financial growth. Every expense that must be met is met, and still there is money available. Deciding what to do with the capital constitutes planning for financial growth.

Wouldn’t a company that’s in a sustaining-itself phase be looking too far ahead—even exuding unrestrained optimism—by a plan for what to do when financial growth accelerates?

Not at all. Prudence requires such a structured approach.

It takes more than extra capital to make a venture work. Whether it’s a very large commercial cleaning contract in the offing or a new customer wanting to create a large, repeating order, the components for seizing the opportunity do not organize themselves.

“I used to say that ‘all we need is a big order,’” says Jeff Theis, president and CEO of ProPulse—a Schieffer Company in Peosta, IA. “In reality, a big order can sink you. The preparation for business growth—that is, the big order or orders—requires a strategic plan with measurable benchmarks.”

Having a set of markers in the early days of a business constitutes a foundation for building the business. “At some point the benchmarks become predictable and ultimately repeatable and/or scalable,” explains Theis.

“In other words, one can predict how growth affects all systems and resources and plan for those events.”

With benchmarks in place, a company has a firm picture of its status at any point in time. With that snapshot it can make informed decisions.

“An assessment of resources needed will determine how quickly one can scale and where additional resources need to be applied,” says Theis.

“So, if the resources are human, financial, physical space, technological, or others, the severely limited resource can very well hamstring the growth cycle.”

In fact, explains Theis, the company’s most limited resource becomes the one of greatest significance, “The overall growth will be limited by the single most restricted resource.”

Each company has a unique vision, but there are standard parts to a business that transcend companies.

(Businesses are analogous to houses, which come in many shapes and sizes but in almost every case have certain structural elements in common such as plumbing, electrical systems, joists, etc.)

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 37

Theis sees the vision of a business owner as a target. “In the end, the target may vary by individual; but for us, the goal has always been to achieve sustainable, profitable growth on an ongoing basis,” he explains.

“So, the lesson is pay attention at the onset and define what ‘growth’ actually means to you as the president or CEO or owner, and then balance resource demands for the optimum result,” says Theis.

RESOURCE DEMANDS

A traditional business plan—the sort that a start-up might take to a potential lender—includes a pithy description of the essential elements of the company envisioned. Elements include purpose (product and/or service), organization (sole operator, employees, etc.), and anchor point (digital world, brick and mortar, home, or some combination).

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA.gov), if a business launch requires financing (some of which might be obtainable through that government entity), the growth plans for the business should also be included. Thus, lenders want to know how a company plans to handle financial growth.

38 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

Banks have a particular interest in financial growth plans because more than getting loans repaid, they want to establish long-term relationships with successful businesses. Banks and private equity firms want to make loans to credit-worthy companies as they expand with locations, buildings, products, and services.

As profit grows, an owner must be thinking about how best to use the profit; options could include profit

sharing, expansion, savings, etc. Does the company have a plan for capital expenditures that maximizes tax advantages and minimizes downtime that comes from waiting too long to replace systems and equipment? And is the company considering changes in insurance needs?

In fact, though, an owner must be thinking about all the same things at the inception of a business. That’s why business plans include a market analysis

and marketing strategy, organizational structure, and financial projections.

A business plan requires a prospective owner to think through all the demands that will be placed on a company’s resources. For example, adding an employee when a particular revenue benchmark is met consumes more than just the hourly or salaried wage for the employee. There is the cost of the ancillaries to the employer from required workers’ compensation to FICA contributions. Training and hiring costs must also be factored in.

Having a reliable projection for the cost of adding an employee enables an owner to weigh the addition against upgrading a tool that increases the efficiency of existing employees. Planning for financial growth is part of readiness.

COMMON SENSE AND TOOLS

Readiness encompasses planning for the best (financial growth) and the worst (economic downturns) and business interruptions (natural disasters). We begin this section with the reminder because preparation for Hurricane Francine, having arrived on the Gulf Coast as we write, impeded the response of a source we contacted about repair tools and service.

As it happens, the source, Roy Pennington, owner of Hi Pressure Cleaning Systems Inc. in Houma, LA, gives us comments relevant to planning in general (part of growing financially). His comment is a perfect fit for the field, the office, and every dimension of business.

“Common sense is the one tool that you cannot function without in the field because you do not know what you are going to walk into,” says Pennington.

“You must be prepared to adapt.”

Choosing the correct tool, having the proper tool on hand, becomes a metaphor (back to the house building analogy used earlier) for a business with a plan. “I tend to get seriously concerned when I see a service tech walking around with a 16-inch sledgehammer in his hand,” says Pennington.

“Good things rarely happen when ‘what we need is a bigger hammer.’”

40 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

Tapping Pennington’s observation about tools to extend the metaphor about financial planning, a successful business aims for precision. Use the correct tool for the job and make the best use of the available information for the decision.

The most optimally arranged service and repair tools, like the most structured plan for financial growth, are always open to being altered or amended by experience. For instance,

42 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

on the tool side Pennington explains he has “two great in-house tools” that were adopted because experience demonstrated how useful they would be.

“One is a simple ‘hydraulic, manual pump lift table’ from a junk store,” says Pennington. “We add four-inch aluminum ‘wings’ to each side to enlarge the deck, and they are the perfect adjustable height to work on cold water units without bending over. Additionally, we have a ‘motorcycle lift’ that

allows us to roll heavier equipment and lift it up, so it is easier to work on.”

The short of it is to choose the tool that works best. Tailor the tool to the needs of a company whether for repairs or financial planning.

ASSISTANCE

ASCENT from the SBA (https:// ascent.sba.gov/) is a relatively new online resource to assist with the many elements of business—from starts to growth. Among the tools available from ASCENT are “Financial Forecasting” and “Calculate & Analyze Your Financial Resources,” which are perhaps two of the most valuable documents ever disseminated (at no charge) by SBA. For a fledgling business that aims to forecast—plan for financial growth—just the task of identifying every cost to consider can be daunting.

The financial forecasting document from ASCENT can serve as a template.

For instance, expenses should include the cost of everything that extracts payments from the incoming revenue, even the periodic expenses such as outside services, accounting and legal, and depreciation. Also imperative to include among expenses is the reserve maintained for contingencies.

Contingencies may be natural disasters or a short power outage that disrupts work. Or they may be a sewer replacement or HVAC repair that “comes out of nowhere.”

The calculate-and-analyze tool from ASCENT offers one path to benchmarking. It demonstrates how to compute the financial ratios (e.g., debt-to-equity, gross profit margin, and return on assets) that allow a company to compare its performance at present to a point in time in the past. It also illustrates how the ratios can be used to compare a company to the competition.

It might be possible to launch a business on a shoestring budget (with a lot of “sweat equity”), but a business can only be sustained and grow if liabilities plus equity add up to assets on a balance sheet. CT

FINDING THE RIGHT TAX PRO

by Mark E. Battersby

Photo by iStockphoto.com/Jirapong Manustrong 44 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

W

hen a pressure cleaning business has outgrown tax preparation software or feels it would be better served by a new tax professional, the question is, How do you find a good and affordable tax professional?

Finding the right professional requires an inventory of what the pressure washing operation needs in the way of services and advice and, most importantly, how much it can afford to pay for that advice or services. It is important to determine beforehand just how much of the work you and the operation’s employees will do and how much of it will be done by the professional.

THE QUESTION OF WHO

For any return involving the complexities of a pressure washing business, an experienced tax professional is usually required.

And, the various types of tax professionals bring different levels of skills, education, and expertise to the table.

Among the various types of tax professionals are accountants, certified public accountants (CPAs), enrolled agents (EAs), attorneys, and others without a professional credential. EAs, CPAs, and attorneys can represent the pressure cleaning operation—or its owner—in front of the IRS on audits, payments, collection issues, and appeals, should it come to that.

In many cases the tax professional hired should be able to do more than merely prepare the operation’s tax returns. The professional should work throughout the year tracking income and spending to ensure the operation doesn’t have a cash flow problem.

Many tax professionals inspect a pressure washing operation’s books and records to ensure that all income is being reported and the business claims all of the deductions and credits available to it. A tax professional can also help answer questions such as whether the operation is subject to excise taxes or needs to file employment tax returns.

FINDING

Some pressure washing businesses—and their owners—may only need help with basic returns. Others may require a professional who can handle complex tax situations and be available for consultation throughout the year.

Once the scope of services required and the available options are known, the best way to find someone to prepare the operation’s tax returns, or to render needed tax advice, is with a referral from business associates, the business’s banker, or an attorney.

Asking someone within the industry who they recommend can be helpful for finding a tax professional well-versed in the needs of the pressure cleaning operation. While this method is more time-consuming than a web search, it can help ensure finding a professional who is able to expertly handle the operation’s tax returns.

As the pressure washing business owner seeks a tax professional of a like temperament, knowledgeable about their industry, and experienced enough to utilize every legitimate deduction and credit available, a professional organization may help.

THE CHOICES

Because most professional organizations have codes of ethics, conduct standards, and certification requirements, professional organization membership is a place to both find and check the professional’s credentials. Among these professional organizations are the following: • The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) — https://www.aicpa-cima.com • National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) — https://www.natptax.com • National Society of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) — https://www.naea.org Typically attorneys specializing in tax law are not ardent disciples of tax return preparation. Such legal professionals are most often confined to complex transactions, issues, and document preparation. Because non-legal tax professionals offer only limited client confidentiality, for issues requiring absolute confidentiality, consider the use of attorneys.

When it comes to helping with tax preparation or tax questions, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers free advice— but it is free advice that is often difficult to obtain. The IRS will not advocate aggressive tax solutions, nor can their answers be taken as gospel. In fact, the IRS will not stand behind incorrect advice or even its erroneous interpretation of its own rules.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 45

COMPATIBLE

With recommendations in hand, an interview should be requested. A lot can be learned from an interview; but tax time is busy, so long conversations may be rare. That interview should answer the following questions: Is the tax professional’s style compatible? Does the professional’s approach to the rules match the goals of the pressure washing business and its owner?

How and what will be charged for the services needed? While no tax pro should be chosen based on fees alone, it pays to compare the fees of several professionals.

Can the professional work with the operation’s recordkeeping, bookkeeping, or POS system? If a system such as QuickBooks or other computerized tools are used, can the professional provide guidance if needed?

Is the tax professional available for questions or assistance other than during the tax season? Availability is crucial. Even after the tax returns have been filed, the best tax professionals

46 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

will take calls, respond to emails, or welcome in-person visits.

Does the professional prepare all returns or are they delegated to staff, and how will that affect the fees charged? In large accounting firms there are usually many employees, ranging from CPAs to junior staff members, usually billing at different rates.

How will the operation’s data be kept secure? Every tax professional should have systems in place to protect confidential information in their possession.

Are all returns filed electronically?

With some exceptions, the IRS requires tax preparers to file electronically. Tax professionals using paper returns may be doing taxes part-time or it could be a sign to keep looking.

Always check a tax professional’s credentials.

CHECKING AND RECHECKING

Keep in mind that finding the right tax professional for the pressure cleaning business is similar to shopping for a new

vehicle, equipment, or anything else. At the very least, comparing fees, services provided, and compatibility should play an important role in every search.

Tax return chains such as Jackson Hewitt, H&R Block, and Liberty Tax may be able to easily handle basic returns, but they aren’t always trained to provide in-depth tax advice or return preparation. Since only CPAs and enrolled agents can represent taxpayers before the IRS in all matters, including audits, collections, and appeals, the chain tax return preparer may have to resort to a referral to someone more qualified, but at what cost?

Tax professionals who participate in the IRS’s annual filing season program have a limited right to represent taxpayers at audits of returns they have prepared and signed. For more complex returns or help with tax-reduction strategies, it is often better to go with an EA, CPA, or tax attorney.

And remember, the professional used for tax advice need not be the

same used for preparing the pressure cleaning operation’s tax returns.

HIRING THE RIGHT TAX PRO

A good, competent tax professional can usually advise an owner on the most effective way to structure the pressure cleaning business. Even with an already-operating business, a tax professional can help the owner, partner, or shareholder determine whether another type of entity might

be advisable and perhaps reduce the annual tax bill.

A knowledgeable tax professional can also help in avoiding many taxrelated scams. The IRS provides tips on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers, and it also investigates paid tax return preparers who act improperly.

Any business owner or manager who has been financially impacted by a tax return preparer’s misconduct or improper tax preparation practices can

make a formal complaint. To report abusive tax return preparers or suspected tax fraud, the IRS’s Form 14157, Return Preparer Complaint and Form 14157-A, Tax Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit, are used by individuals, sole proprietors, and single-member LLCs to report a tax preparer’s misconduct.

Although these tax preparer complaint forms don’t let anyone off the hook for paying taxes owed, they allow every individual taxpayer, sole proprietor, and single-member LLC to anonymously report tax preparer misconduct.

SHOPPING AROUND

Most pressure cleaning business owners use a professional at some point—most commonly to prepare tax returns. In fact, according to the IRS more than half of all returns filed were filed by tax professionals. However, it can’t be emphasized enough that shopping for a professional is virtually a necessity in today’s business economy.

Fortunately, many professionals offer free first meetings for discussion of expectations, services needed and provided, extent of involvement by the professional, the portion of the work the operation’s employees are expected to shoulder, time constraints, and, above all, costs.

Finding a professional should be more than a search for the least expensive or most convenient option.

Although money should never be the sole criteria for selecting a tax professional, remember that it is not “tacky” to discuss fees before engaging their services.

Comparison shopping to find a tax professional who can provide the level of service required at a price that the business—and you—can afford is a process that shouldn’t be ignored or postponed.

The bottom line is it should be kept in mind that regardless of the source of any advice or who prepares the pressure washing operation’s tax returns, it is the operation’s owner who is responsible for everything on that return. CT 48 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

O

ne thing, a result, follows another as the consequence of intent, planning, and goal setting.

That’s success.

50 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

The Latin origin of the word “success” makes it a neutral term. True, the contemporary connotation of success often includes the perception that what follows from doing is positive or a gain.

Success is a fluid word, and the definitions become personal. Not only does the definition of success vary with the person, but it also varies with the departure point.

Completing a certification or an academic degree constitutes success.

SUCCESS STORIES

by Diane M. Calabrese

Photo by iStockphoto.com/Tom Merton

Forging ahead—persistence—during the toughest intervals is a form of success. To be sure, landing in the exact career a person dreamed of pursuing defines a type of success, just as balancing life’s activities—especially family and remunerative work—ought to be acknowledged as success.

It only takes each of us an instant to think of someone we admire for their success. It might be someone like President Abraham Lincoln, who overcame adversity to learn and lead.

Or it could be someone close to us, such as a neighbor who perseveres and takes care of a child with acute special needs and simultaneously

carries on all the other responsibilities of life. And it would not take most of us long to turn our focus to the military personnel who have returned from missions with serious injuries, individuals determined to keep doing despite their injuries.

How do success exemplars converge in outlook? They all have a large degree of self-motivation.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 51

Lincoln did not sit around lamenting the absence of a reading light. He lit a candle.

The neighbor and the combat veteran did not pause to think about what might have been. They begin with what is and commit to continue from that point forward.

Worries over failure are not part of the worldview of those who succeed. Someone trying to regain mobility and working with a physical

therapist will have setbacks. The setback is not the concern, rather the sought-after continuous improvement is. Success is in doing.

Individuals who succeed know they cannot do everything alone.

They may need help or advice. A caregiver may need a respite or some helping hands.

And everyone—no matter how good the plan—must have a thirst for relevant information. To move toward

goals, we keep learning from all available sources.

Others may assist us by providing ideas, inspiration, resources, and so on. Honesty about input provided by others can only bolster a good outcome.

Lincoln earned the moniker “Honest Abe” because he was deemed to be fair and objective in his work as a law clerk. It’s the sort of appellation we should all aspire to attain. It’s a reminder, too, that many stories of success are so quiet we don’t know about them.

Indeed, the framework that supports vigorous communities begins with the accumulation of little stories of success, each endeavor achieving its result. It’s the contractor who completes a job to the satisfaction of a customer and to his or her own satisfaction.

It’s the administrative assistant who got through a day without being pulled out of balance by a caller who wanted to complain about a delay in the delivery of a part. It’s the business owner who knows that the team at work gets a bit stronger each day because everyone is motivated to do his or her best, and because the owner sets the example.

Success is in doing and doing well.

In the next two sections two members of our industry, Maxwell Baldwin at Whisper Wash and Edgar Kron at Bozeman Distributors, each share a success story.

SUCCESS STORY I— WHAT IS SUCCESS?

By Maxwell Baldwin, Owner/Director of Operations Whisper Wash, Saint Petersburg, FL This is a difficult question for me to answer. I have thought hard about how to respond. I have had multiple opportunities in my life to enjoy or create success. There are a few that I will briefly touch base on, but there is an overall theme.

I was called on by a friend years ago to go out to teach skiing for a season in Colorado. I had never 52 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

really skied before, but I applied and got the job on charisma. This choice created some hardship as I was in for a rude awakening not knowing how to ski.

I showed up and learned about skiing, the industry, and certifications.

I then went to morning and evening training almost every day, and within 60 days or so I signed up for a three-day certification exam and passed. Within a few years I went from an instructor to foreman, then supervisor, and achieved more certifications and accolades.

I also started my own business in the summer months sealcoating, striping, and pressure washing. I was able, with my contacts and team, to grow this side hustle into a full-fledged, employee-run business within a few years. I have since sold that business and left my skiing days behind me for Whisper Wash, which was already a great business with the best product.

I now find success in people. All these experiences have led me to one understanding: People are the key to success. It’s not in the car you drive or the house you own. It’s in the people you surround yourself with and the effort in cultivating relationships.

I couldn’t have achieved those certifications and promotions without great relationships and trainers. I couldn’t have grown my sealcoat business as quickly if I didn’t have great team members, foremen, and clients.

Whisper Wash is no different. Without our great staff, leaders, and overall great industry partners and purchasers, we couldn’t have the successes that we do. I like a challenge, and I face challenges head-on at 100 percent.

Looking back, that is what I’m proud of; up to this point in my life, that is my success. Facing any challenges together relentlessly with no quitting.

SUCCESS STORY II— SERVICE AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AS AN EXAMPLE OF SUCCESS

By Edgar Kron, Sales Manager Bozeman Distributors & Cat Pumps, Baton Rouge, LA We recently assisted a new customer who was having issues with some engines on their eight-gpm pump skids. The skids were purchased from various manufacturers out of state and not from Bozeman. The Honda iGX700 & iGX800 engines were not performing up to expectations. Since Bozeman is a Honda premier sales & service dealer, they contacted us about the issues.

The customer, a commercial power wash and soft wash operator, had tried several things to correct the issues before coming to Bozeman. They tried changing different components on the engines and pumps, but the issues did not go away. They even purchased additional engines as backups, but the problems persisted. The customer’s use of after-market parts contributed to some of the issues with the engines.

After several face-to-face conversations and phone calls, the customer wanted Honda to take all the engines back. I suggested he contact Honda customer service. After about a week or so I spoke with the customer and learned that he had not contacted Honda but had bought three of a competitor’s engines to replace the Honda engines.

That is when I made the phone call to our Honda engine distributor.

After speaking with the service manager and the field service representative, an on-site service call was scheduled where the customer was washing a high-school football stadium to check the engines.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 53

Photo by iStockphoto.com/IrisImages

54 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

The Honda field service rep evaluated each engine and specified what parts were needed or services performed to correct the issues. Several of the engines just needed valve adjustments, and some were done on site. The iGX700/800 engines require a valve adjustment between 200 and 300 hours to prevent faulty readings by the MAP sensor regarding the intake and exhaust airflow.

The units that were not able to be repaired in the field were scheduled for in-shop service at our facility. Parts were ordered, and the defective components were replaced within a week of the initial in-field service evaluation.

Valves were adjusted on all the engines. New spark plugs were installed. Fuel strainers were recommended prior to the low-pressure fuel pump. Grounding issues were corrected. The iGX700/800 engines need to be grounded to the engine block grounding ports or the bare metal of the frame.

Improper grounding from the manufacturers was causing some of the issues.

After repair of the engines, the customer was much happier with the Honda engines. He made a deal with a competitor to get the competitor’s iGX800 that was having issues for two of the three new non-Honda engines he had just purchased.

Some of the issues were service related and the responsibility of the customer. The defective parts were covered by Honda and installed by Bozeman. Bozeman took the initial step in getting the engine issues resolved and taking care of the customer, even though Bozeman did not manufacture or sell the equipment. As a Honda premier sales and service dealer, customer service is priority number one at Bozeman Distributors. Bozeman is the manufacturer of Aqua Pro power washers, pump equipment, and sprayers. CT

KO Pressure Supply 2950 E. Division Springfield, MO 65803 (888) 301-3005 www.kopressuresupply.com Quality Parts, Equipment, Chemicals, and Service.

ZONE 7

American Pressure, Inc. • CETA Certified Distributor 3810 West Broadway Robbinsdale, MN 55422 (763) 521-4442 www.AmericanPressureInc.com Parts/Repair/Equip-Contractor Discount-Huge Inventory Omega Industries, Inc. 11317 W 47th St. Minnetonka, MN 55343 (952) 988-8345 http://omegaindustriesinc.com Sayers Wash Systems 21020 Cambodia Ave. Farmington, MN 55024 (800) 456-9840 www.SayersWashSystems.com Servicing Virtually All Brands of Pressure Washers.

ZONE 8

Michigan Power Cleaning 2101 Palmer Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49001 (269) 349-3656 MichiganPowerCleaning.com 35y+ Parts/Service Cat General Hydrotek and Other Brands.

ZONE 9 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.

56 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

Superior Cleaning Equipment 4422 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-257-1357 sceclean.com

(888) 889-WASH (9274) www.rcpce.com Industrial Pressure Washer Sales, Service, Parts, Detergents, & Diesel-Powered Equip. Available.

ZONE 5

Sellers Sales Co. Inc. Pumps & Equip 1904 So. Loop Drive Waco, Texas 76704 (254) 754-5761 info@sellerspump.com Cat Pumps dist for 50 years.

Pump Sls/Parts/Repairs/Cstm Built Pump Pkgs

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

ZONE 6

AaLadin Central Pressure Washers & Supplies 2339 East Front Street Kansas City, MO 64120 (816) 221-1007 www.aaladincentral.com Aaladin Elite Dist. Sales, Service, Parts, Soap for all brands.

Chappell Supply & Equipment • CETA Certified Distributor 6509 W. Reno Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73127 (405) 495-1722 service@chappellsupply.com 1-Stop-Shop for Industrial Cleaning Equip. Needs.

Pressure Washer Supply Center 480 Hylton Rd. Suite D Richmond, VA 23238 804-708-9851 pressurewashersupplycenter.com Commercial Pressure Washer Sales, Service, Parts, Chemicals & Repair.

Pressure Washer Supply Center 110001 Houser Dr. #13 Fredericksburg, VA 22408 (804) 708-9851 pressurewashersupplycenter.com Commercial Pressure Washer Sales, Service, Parts, Chemicals & Repair.

ZONE 10

American Water Works East 3000 Nuzzo Ln. Conway, SC 29526 843-399-1055 www.americanwaterworks.net Delco of Knoxville 6675 Clinton Hwy Knoxville, TN 37912 (865) 938-4486 Sales. Parts. Service. Rentals.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 1706 Rossville Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 756-5763 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 5720 A Middlebrook Pike Knoxville, TN 37921 (865) 584-7477 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

ZONE 11

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 878 Davis Dr. (Atlanta) Conyers, GA 30094 (770) 760-7031 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 206 5th Ave. SW Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 734-1208 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 7688 Spanish Fort Blvd.

(Mobile) Spanish Fort, AL 36527 (251) 621-1901 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 3521 Richard Arrington Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35234 (205) 323-6441 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 2618 Forrest Ave. Gadsden, AL 35904 (256) 547-7527 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service • CETA Certified Distributor 1624 ½ Hamilton Road LaGrange, GA 30240 (770) 668-6319 www.etowahchemicals.com Quality Chemical & Equipment Solutions Since 1980.

GCE, Georgia Chemical Equipment 1580 Beaver Ruin Road Norcross, GA 30093 (770) 921-0397; (800)762-7911 https://georgiachemical.com Sales, Service, Chems, Rentals Repairs on Nat Brands.

North Georgia Airless 2126 Hilton Drive Gainesville, GA 30501

(770) 532-4442 www.NorthGeorgiaAirless.com Trusted Sales, Rental, Parts and Repair Center.

(610) 583-7657 www.etscompany.com All PW’s! Sales, Repairs, Rental, Parts, Chems, Since 1970.

Power Cleaning Equipment, Inc. 5020 Hwy 157 Florence, AL 35633 (800) 423-8605 joe@power-cleaning.net Full-service P.W. Dist & Chem. Mfg. (TN also)

Hydro-Spray 2928 Washington Avenue Clearfield, PA 16830 (800) 528-5733 www.hydrospray.com A full-service car wash & pressure wash equip provider.

ZONE 12

Faitella Enterprises • CETA Certified Distributor Ft. Pierce, FL (800) 874-0607 www.faitellaenterprises.com Since 1976, Sales & Service at Your Location or Ours.

Florida Pressure Washing Equipment & Supplies 671 Progress Way Sanford, FL 32771 (407) 688-4532 www.floridapressurewashing equipment.com Mi-T-M Dist. Seal´nLock, PW Sales, Service, Parts.

ZONE 13

ETS, Equipment Trade Service Co. Inc. 20 East Winona Ave. Norwood PA. 19074

Kepner Equipment, Inc. 2365 Firehall Rd. Canandaigua, NY 14424 888-895-2632 www.kepnerequipment.com Helping You Clean Up Your Act Since ‘92! Sales, Service, Detergents Portage Power Wash 814 736-6288 217 Main St. Portage, PA 15946 www.portagepowerwash.com We are a family-owned business that has over 40 years of experience.

ZONE 15

PSC Pressure Systems Company, Inc. 3300 Steeles Ave. W Concord, ON, L4K 2Y4 www.pscclean.com (800) 246-9689 Manufacturing, Sales, Parts and Service, since 1969.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 57

EQUIPMENT— EXPLOSION-PROOF

EXPLOSION-PROOF hot or cold pressure washers.

ACCESSORIES

Accessories: Schedule 80 Aluminum Wands, cut & threaded.

Call for price, 800-874-0607.

Vector Laboratories: 800-3310347; www.vectorchemicals.com.

PA SpA: +39 0522 623 611; www.pa-etl.it.

Industrial, heavy duty, to your specs. Pressures to 10,000 psi.

Meets UL 1776 & UL 1203.

Call 800-231-9708 Acme Cleaning Equip, Inc. 6839 Piccadilly Houston, TX 77061-2848

Midland Industries: 800-8215725; www.midlandmetal.com.

ACCESSORIES AND PARTS

GRAFFITI REMOVAL

Barens, Inc.: 800-676-0607; www.barens.com.

Equipment Trade Service Co.: 877-824-7763; www.taginator.com.

ASSOCIATIONS

BURNERS

Wayne Combustion Systems: 260425-9200; waynecombustion.com.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Lease Consultants: 800-3252605; www.leaseconsultants.com.

Pressure Systems Inc.: 602-2539579; www.pressuresystems inc.com.

Coils-R-Us: 479-549-3880; www. coils-r-us.com.

Farley’s Inc: 800-522-COIL; www. farleysinc.com.

NOZZLES

Arthur Products Co.: 800-3220510; www.arthurproducts.com.

DETERGENTS

Graffiti Solutions: 651-7770849; www.graffitisolutions.com.

EQUIPMENT

HEATERS

Aaladin Industries: 605-356-3325; www.aaladin.com.

J.S O’will, Inc.: 360-226-3637; https://val6.com.

American Washall: 833-645-4275; AmericanWashall.com.

HEATERS—SPACE

BE Pressure Supply, Inc.: 800663-8331; www.bepressure.com.

CAR WASH

Cam Spray: 800-648-5011; www.camspray.com.

J.E. Adams Industries: 319-3633867; www.jeadams.com.

Epps Products: 888-826-9191; www.eppsproducts.com.

Kleen-Rite: 888-931-2538; www. kleen-ritecorp.com.

Mi-T-M Corporation: 800-5539053; www.mitm.com.

CHEMICALS

PowerJet Pressure Cleaning Systems: 877-765-9211; www. powerjetpressure.com.

ITD Chemical: 800-472-1233; www.itdinc.biz.

PSC Cleaning Systems: 905761-1733; www.pscclean.com.

58 • November 2024 • Cleaner Times

MISTING

COILS

Hydrus Detergents: 712-765-1060; www.hydrusdetergents.com.

Etowah Chemical Sales & Service: 800-848-8541.

Joseph D. Walters: 800-878-3808; www.josephdwalters.com.

LEASING SERVICES

CETA: 800-441-0111; www.ceta. org.

R.W. Beckett: 440-327-1064; www.beckettcorp.com.

INSURANCE

CSC Insurance: 724-929-2300; cscinsurance.com.

FITTINGS

Steel Eagle: 800-447-3924; www.steeleagle.com.

PWNA: 800-393-7962; www. pwna.org.

HOSES

ProPulse, A Schieffer Co.: 563583-4758; www.powermovingforward.com.

JTI Trade, Inc.: 360-226-3637; www.val6.com.

HOSE REELS

BluBird Industries: 844-7694673; www.rmxind.com.

Hannay Reels: 518-797-3791; hannay.com.

NOZZLES AND EQUIPMENT

Suttner America Co.: 800-8310660; https://suttner.com.

PARTS

EDI Distributors Prompt, courteous service, tech assistance, excellent prices.

Visit www.edidistributors.com for a small sample and free catalog, or just call

800-433-2033

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

Chappell Supply & Equipment Company: 405-495-1722; www. chappellsupply.com.

PRESSURE WASHERS

Alkota: 855-296-4296; https:// alkota.com.

Dyne Power Packs: 772-332-1662.

Nilfisk/Pressure Pro: 772-4614486; www.pressure-pro.com.

Pressure Systems Innovations: 561-249-2830; https://pressure systemsinnovations.com.

PSC Cleaning Systems: 800246-9689; www.pscclean.com.

PUMPS

Cat Pumps: 763-780-5440; www.catpumps.com.

Comet USA: 800-864-1649; www.cometpump.com.

Giant Pumps: 419-531-4600; www.giantpumps.com.

UDOR USA: 561-785-0666; https://udorusa.com.

Valley Industries/Comet USA: 800-864-1649; www.comet pump.com.

PUMPS AND ACCESSORIES

TRAINING

WATER TREATMENT

AR North America: 763-3982008; www.arnorthamerica.com.

Scaltrol, Inc: 800-868-0629; https://scaltrolinc.com.

SURFACE CLEANERS

Woodrich Brand: 636-288-8512; woodrichbrand.com.

WOOD RESTORATION

NEW! EATOILS™ BT200™

OIL STAIN REMOVER & DEGREASER 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.

WorldWare Enterprises Ltd. TOLL FREE: 866-621-8244 WEBSITE: www.eatoils.com DISTRIBUTOR INQUIRIES WELCOME

WOOD STAINING

Wood Defender: 817-658-KOTE (5683); wooddefender.com.

VALVES

Midland Industries: 800-8215725; www.midlandmetal.com.

WASTEWATER CAPTURE SYSTEMS

WATERJETTING DIRECTORY ASSOCIATIONS

WJTA-IMCA: 314-241-1445; www. wjta.org.

WATER BLASTING

Whisper Wash: 727-577-1292; www.whisper-wash.com.

THERMOSTATS

Cotherm North America: www. cotherm.com.

TRAILERS

Universal Trailer: 818-252-0706; www.americanwaterworks.net.

Cleaner Times • November 2024 • 59

ADVERTISER’S INDEX Advertiser. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Aaladin Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 AR North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 AR North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Barens Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 BE Power Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC BluBird Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Cam Spray. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Cat Pumps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 CETA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Chappell Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Coils - R - Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Coxreels Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Epps Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Etowah Chemical Sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Farley’s Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 General Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Giant Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

o YES! I WISH TO RECEIVE (OR CONTINUE RECEIVING)

Hannay Reels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Hydrus Detergents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

MAGAZINE!

ITD Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Subscription Rate:

o One Year — U.S. $24, Canada $75

o Industrial Users Check Here for a Complimentary Subscription Please Print Account # (Found On Label) __________________________________________________________ Name ____________________________________________ Title _____________________________ Company ___________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________ City/State ____________________________________________ Zip _________________________ Phone ( ) ____________________________ Fax ( ) ____________________________ o New address or name Email: ________________________________________________

MUST SIGN & DATE

____________________________________ ___/___/___

For credit card orders, please call 501-280-9111 or go to CleanerTimes.com.

1. My title is: A o Owner/President B o General Manager C o Marketing Director D o Sales E o Safety Supervisor F o Service/Repair What do you clean?

2. Type of Business My Company performs the following (Mark all that apply and circle primary): A o Manufacturer of Equipment B o Manufacturer of Chemical & Coatings C o Distributor D o Supplier E o Advertising Agency F o Service/Repair G o Consultant H o Rental Center I o Contractor o Low Pressure

o High Pressure

J.E. Adams Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 J.S. O’will Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Latimat 2.0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Lease Consultants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mi-T-M Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Nilfisk/Pressure Pro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 P.A. NAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 PowerJet Pressure Cleaning Systems. . . . . . . . . 5 Pressure Systems Innovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Propulse, A Schieffer Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 PWNA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Steel Eagle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Suttner America Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Universal Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Whisper Wash Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Wood Defender / Standard Paints. . . . . . . . . . . 39