The 2025 Professional Pressure Washing Chemical, Equipment, and Accessory Showcase
Waste Oil Heaters
CETA Edge: CETA Scholars 2025–2026
Industry News
Pump Technology Evolution
The Huge Convention 2025 Draws 1,500 Attendees to Nashville
Maintaining Profits
Waterblasting in a Winter Wonderland: How to Winterize Your Waterblasting Unit
Financial:
Affordable Smarter Workers
Eco-Friendly Practices and Regulations
Service Center Directory
Products & Services Directory
Advertiser’s Index/ Subscription Form
EDITOR’S NOTE
It was wonderful to talk with so many of you and see you face-to-face at PowerClean 2025 in Reno, NV. There is no replacement for in-person interaction. The golf tournament, Women of CETA, and kickoff comedian were all enjoyable and good opportunities to catch up on life, laugh, and spend time together. The thought-provoking educational seminars were informative, 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.
On page 10 we are excited this month to show off some changes in our traditional Showcase. The first section is called “What’s New, What’s Next,” and it provides the opportunity for the manufactures to show off a newly developed product as well as a second one that will be introduced in the market soon. The second section is the regular showcase as in past years and still allows for a trade show floor in the pages of the magazine by highlighting some great products for those in the industry.
Turn to page 34 to read brief bios of the eight CETA scholars. We get the opportunity to read about their higher education and studies as well as some of their future aspirations. It’s always encouraging to see the ambitions and desires of a younger generation.
On page 48 there is a mainly pictorial of The Huge Convention held in the latter part of August in Nashville, TN. It brought more than 1,500 registered attendees and nearly 100 exhibitors. Make plans to attend August 25–26, 2026, by visiting thehugeconvention.com.
Cleaner Times hopes you enjoy the cooler temperatures, beautiful fall leaves, and some candy corn.
Michael Hamline mhamline@cleanertimes.com 800-525-7038
Tammy Hanner accounting@fcapgroup.com
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WINTERIZING EQUIPMENT
by Diane M. Calabrese
Winter is a state of mind, at least some of the time. A cold October in New York City may bring snow, but cold alone is enough to put many people in the winter mindset.
What about equipment? Has it the same varied responses to the environment?
Not exactly, but there are parallels. In the interest of comfort, people in cold regions store sweaters in summer and keep them accessible in winter. Before they put the sweaters away for the warmer months, they make certain they are clean (or at least they should).
Winterizing applies to equipment of all sorts just as it does to clothing. And equipment used by power washing contractors is right there in the mix.
The basic concept of winterizing applies to protecting equipment from freezing temperatures, but equipment must also be protected from long periods of disuse.
The “when” of winterizing requires an assessment based on a combination of factors. It’s not simply an arbitrary date on a calendar.
“We recommend starting to winterize as soon as overnight temperatures start to get in the 50-degree Fahrenheit range,” says Dennis Black, president of McHenry Pressure Cleaning Systems Inc. in Frederick, MD. “In our part of the country that can be late September or October.”
The “who” of winterization also requires evaluation. “We have several types of customers who need to do winterization,” says Black
“Contractors that work in the winter and especially at night make up one group,” explains Black. “This can include restaurant hood cleaners and other contract cleaners.”
Everyone seeking to properly winterize is already attuned at some level to the vagaries of the environment. “Contractors need to remember that even though temperatures are above freezing during the day, nighttime can be a different situation,” says Black.
Then, there’s a second significant group of equipment owners that must keep winterization on their priorities list. “We also have a lot of trailer- and truck-mounted units that get stored outside,” said Black. “These units need to be winterized before going into winter storage.”
And back to the whims of the environment, there’s more. “We must remind customers that when equipment is hauled in a vehicle, wind chill can have an effect as well as lower temperatures,” says Black. “In other words, machines are sometimes more likely to freeze when being hauled.”
Stationary units should be easier to keep at the proper ambient temperature, but they cannot be ignored. “For stationary units we remind customers to make sure that heaters are in working condition in equipment rooms and buildings,” says Black.
Prep it (for winter storage), stash it, and forget it would be an ideal scenario. But it’s a risky one.
With remote monitoring of everything as easy as it is commonplace, contractors should set up temperature monitoring on their garages or other storage facilities. So, if there’s a heating failure or power outage (and heaters do not automatically reset), the contractor will receive a notification.
A persistent question in just about any context is “Why not?”, and a version of that applies to winterization: Why would a contractor not winterize equipment?
“Usually it is just complacency, or they forget,” says Black. “Sometimes a contractor may think that the equipment will only be exposed to freezing temps for a short period.”
But the “short period” assessment is a gamble. “We have found it only takes a short period of time for the machine to freeze,” says Black. “Of course, the lower the temps and the longer the period a pressure washer is exposed to below freezing, the worse the damage can be.”
How can a contractor be sure to assign the correct priority to winterizing equipment? “First, make sure
Photo by
winterizing is part of normal procedure,” says Black.
Second, do not make the process more difficult than it needs to be. “Make sure your equipment is easy to winterize,” says Black. “It is more likely to get done if it is easier to do.”
What can simplify the task? Assistance from the contractor’s distributor.
“We make sure all our equipment is equipped with easy winterizing kits,” says Black. “We even make a portable kit for portable units.”
There’s real value in assistance tied to a specific unit. “We see a lot of equipment that is purchased by customers in our area with no means of winterizing,” explains Black. “That means that some disassembly and a lot of time is required to winterize. This equates to it possibly not getting done.”
And when getting it done, be methodical so as not to overlook anything. “Don’t forget to drain or winterize guns, wands, hoses, and
accessories as well as winterizing the machine,” says Black.
READINESS
Skipping winterization—or simply skipping a few steps—”just this once” may not lead to a catastrophic failure of a machine. But it’s imprudent at best, given the time and money that will be wasted to correct any problems brought about by laxity.
“Everyone should winterize their pressure washers and accessories like surface cleaners, hoses, hose reels, pressure guns, down streamers, turbo nozzles, etc.,” says Henry Bockman, president of PowerWashCompany. com in Germantown, MD. And he adds some specifics to that recommendation.
“Clean out the hoses, guns, down streamers, soft washing pumps, bypass lines, and pressure washing pump by washing out to flush out leftover soap by running clean water through it,” explains Bockman. “Drain all water.”
And “drain all water” means double checking that the water is fully removed. “Turn the washer off and squeeze the trigger to get rid of all the water inside,” says Bockman.
A contractor can develop a sound method for winterizing. Bockman gives us one approach.
“The easiest way to do this is to take a five-gallon bucket with a ball valve and a female garden hose fitting inserted in the bottom of it,” explains Bockman. “Then, hang it a few feet up in the air above your machine. Fill it with RV antifreeze. Attach a hose from the bucket to your machine.
“Then, with all of your hoses hooked up, start the machine and open the ball valve to allow the RV antifreeze to enter the pump and hoses,” continues Bockman. “Point the gun into the bucket and let it shoot through all of your lines and unloader bypass. When antifreeze starts shooting into the bucket, shut off the machine and ball valve on the bucket.”
Novice contractors may ask themselves how serious leaving just a bit of water behind could be. Quite serious is the answer.
“Don’t forget to winterize all your guns, hoses, surface cleaners, and everything that water or cleaning solutions flow through,” says Bockman, emphasizing “all” and “everything.” Why the emphasis?
“A teaspoon of water can cost you a few hundred dollars if it freezes inside your surface cleaner’s swivel,” says Bockman. Hundreds of dollars required to restore a machine because of damage caused by just a teaspoon of water is quite a persuasive example of the need for winterizing.
Rid the unit of water first. Next move on to the engine.
“Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and then run the engine for a few minutes so it reaches all parts,” says Bockman. “Then, turn off the gas valve until the engine runs out of gas. This will keep the gas from
going bad or gumming up during storage.”
In an ideal world there’s a place for everything (and everything is in its place). Along with that there’s plenty of indoor storage. If there is, take advantage of it.
“I would recommend storing equipment indoors or in a climate-controlled area if possible,” says Bockman. “But if you follow the directions given, you shouldn’t have any problems.
There’s no good reason for skipping winterization of equipment. And Bockman sums up his advice with a quip: “Contractors should always do it unless they live in Mexico.”
TIME IS MONEY
Some things are difficult to imagine until they happen. Members of our industry understand the power of water.
Yet we all sometimes overlook the compound power of ice. One rupture of a frozen pipe in a home or workplace quickly brings a lifetime of
awareness about how a little ice can do significant damage.
A pressure washer unit could become a total loss under certain conditions precipitated by ice. For example, on a hot water machine, damaged coils could fail. The cost of a coil may approach the cost of the machine.
Other costly vulnerabilities in a unit include pump heads. Why take a chance?
Using the RV antifreeze method to remove water from the system, or using compressed air to do the same, ensures that the side of the machine that moves water—the collective of wet components—is down to its last drop of water or less. (Glycol in antifreeze fills cavities in plumbing to keep out water; it also prevents seals from drying out.)
True, the potential for trace amounts of water remains. (There’s trace water everywhere in the atmospheric environment, no matter how dry.)
Still, as dry as physically possible is the safe bet for winter. CT
WHAT’S
&
ANNOVI REVERBERI
RF, Series 538
www.arnorthamerica.com
800-893-4235
WHAT’S NEW!
BARENS
Centurion Hi-Viz Acid Spray Gun with Built-in SS Swivel www.barens.com
800-676-0607
The RF, Series 538 from Annovi Reverberi is the next step in professional-grade pump innovation—strategically positioned between the XW and RTX lines. Delivering up to 5800 psi and 10.3 gpm at 1450 rpm, it offers more power and durability than the XW, without the industrial overbuild of the RTX. Featuring an anodized aluminum crankcase, ceramic plungers, bronze connecting rods, and dual oil sight glasses, it’s built for heavy-duty commercial and light industrial use. With modular flange options and a servicefriendlydesign, the RF, Series 538 is engineered for professionals who demand performance, reliability, and what’s next.
WHAT’S NEW!
ANNOVI REVERBERI
AR Blue Clean AR630 V2
www.arblueclean.com
800-893-4235
WHAT’S NEXT!
The wait is over. The Italian-made AR630 V2 is here—built for professionals who demand uncompromising performance. Delivering 1600 psi at 2.3 gpm, this powerhouse features a brass triplex pump, rugged construction, and the innovative dual pro switch with total stop and bypass modes for maximum control and efficiency. Designed for versatility, the AR630 V2 adapts to wall-mount, cart, or handheld setups with ease. Now available in HW hot-wash models, it’s the go-to solution for food service, sanitation zones, and commercial kitchens. Whether you’re in auto detailing, industrial cleaning, agriculture, or facilities maintenance, the AR630 V2 is built for all-day, everyday use.
Coming October 2025
Learn more at arblueclean.com or visit your favorite dealer where Blue Clean products are sold.
The newly launched Centurion brand with a built-in swivel at 5,000 psi and 12 gpm capacity is one example of premium pressure washing parts by BE and Barens that is designed for maximum durability and performance. Engineered for both professionals and enthusiasts, Centurion products include hoses, spray guns, nozzles, and accessories built with top-grade materials. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Centurion aims to set a new standard in pressure washing excellence.
BARENS
Dealer Marketplace www.barens.com
800-676-0607
WHAT’S NEXT!
Barens has committed to providing our dealers with superior service and tools to buy better, buy faster, and buy with the confidence of knowing the parts you need will be shipped fast. Join the growing network of Barens dealers that never settle for less than the best and order on the fly through the newly launched marketplace, for dealers only!
The HumpBack pressure washer is a heavy-duty cleaning solution engineered for performance and durability. Powered by an industrial 1890 motor with a 14a draw, it delivers up to 3000 psi with a rated working pressure of 2300 psi and water flow up to 1.5 gpm. Featuring a robust ADC12 aluminum alloy pump, total stop system (TSS), and CSA certification, it ensures efficiency and safety. The unit comes with a 50 ft. rubber hose, spray gun with multiple nozzles, foam cannon, quick-connect couplers, and a detachable reel for versatile use. Portable or wallmounted, HumpBack is built for powerful, reliable cleaning in demanding environments.
BLUBIRD INDUSTRIES
Ag-Lite Hybrid Water Hose www.blubirdindustries.com sales@blubirdindustries.com 844-769-4673
Deco’s 1K Ure-A-Cast is a singlepart urethane offered in an easy-touse water-based form. Unlike traditional urethanes that require mixing separate components, typically labeled Part A and Part B, which then must be applied within a short pot life of only a few hours, our Ure-A-Cast is always ready to use. If you have material left after one project, it can be safely stored and used on your next job without worry. Deco’s Ure-A-Cast not only locks sand firmly in place but also enhances and deepens surface colors, leaving behind a beautiful, brilliant shine that lasts.
DECO PRODUCTS
Silane Coating for Garage Floors www.decoproducts.com 800-500-DECO
WHAT’S NEXT!
The Ag-Lite hybrid water hose combines strength, flexibility, and visibility for professional and home use. Constructed with a hybrid polymer inner tube and cover reinforced by polyester braiding, it withstands up to 150 psi working pressure with a 3:1 safety factor and burst strength of 500 psi. The lightweight 50-ft. hose resists kinks, abrasion, and cracking in extreme conditions, while brass fittings and ferrules ensure leak-free performance. A smooth, hi-viz yellow cover enhances durability and visibility for added safety. Designed with bend restrictors to prevent wear, this hose is ideal for everyday watering, agriculture, and tough outdoor applications.
WHAT’S NEXT!
Currently Deco Products is developing an advanced modified silane coating designed specifically for garage floors. This innovative coating is naturally clear, providing a clean and professional finish, but it can also be pigmented and offered in a selection of attractive colors to suit different design preferences. By combining durability with versatility, the product is being engineered to protect surfaces from wear while enhancing appearance. We are still in the developmental stages, carefully testing and refining its performance. With continued progress, our goal is to introduce this high-quality, customizable garage floor coating to the market by next spring.
Surface Cleaner
www.hmccleaning.com
info@hijet.com.cn
WHAT’S NEW!
For over 20 years we’ve delivered reliable surface cleaners—from compact 12 in. to wide 24 in. models. With mostly inhouse parts, we ensure superior quality control and dependable performance. Backed by strong U.S. support and service, we keep your operations running smoothly with trusted durability and proven results.
Rotatable Solar Panel Cleaning Brush www.hmc cleaning.com info@hijet.com.cn
WHAT’S NEXT!
Maximize your solar energy output and protect your investment! Our new telescopic cleaning pole helps you safely remove grime and boost efficiency from the ground. Its extendable design reaches high panels easily, saving you on maintenance costs. It is durable, lightweight, and effortless to use. Keep your system performing at its peak!
HMC
Electric Solar Panel Cleaner with Two-Brush Head www.hmccleaning.com
Unleash the power of your solar array! Introducing our revolutionary dual-disc telescopic pole—the ultimate tool for fast, effective panel cleaning. Two soft brushes deliver a powerful, streak-free scrub in half the time, lifting dirt and maximizing energy output. The pole extends for safe, ground-level cleaning. Protect your investment and boost your savings. Order this game changer now!
Allow us to introduce LFC-423 Cleaner/Degreaser, a concentrated, high-performance solution engineered to cut through tough soils including grease and carbon on all flooring surfaces. Developed with advanced green chemistry, LFC-423 delivers powerful cleaning while remaining safe, user friendly, and solvent free. Its rapid penetration and residue-free rinsing save time and leave surfaces clean, bright, and ready for use. Highly versatile, it works with pressure washers, scrubbers, buckets, or manual applications. Concentrated for cost-efficiency, LFC-423 is nonflammable, nonhazardous, biodegradable, and low-VOC. With anti-corrosive properties and flexible dilution up to 128:1, it ensures superior performance, worker safety, and environmental compliance—setting a new benchmark in exterior cleaning.
We want to introduce a DC-4023 Cleaner/Degreaser, a powerful, concentrated solution engineered to remove the toughest soils from all surfaces. Formulated with advanced green chemistry, DC-4023 is safe, nonflammable, biodegradable, and solvent free. Highly versatile, it works with pressure washers, scrubbers, or manual application. Flexible dilution options provide outstanding economy, while rapid penetration and residue-free rinsing save time. Delivering superior performance and a safer work environment, DC-4023 sets a new standard in cleaning efficiency.
MI-T-M CORPORATION
CTM Series Truck-Mount Pressure Washers www.mitm.com 800-553-9053
WHAT’S NEW!
The Mi-T-M CTM Series sets a new standard for mobile cleaning with cold-water pressure washers designed specifically for truck and trailer mounting. Delivering up to 3500 psi and 8 gpm, these units provide the power professionals need without the hassle of retrofitting equipment. A heavy-duty, powder-coated frame, enclosed belt guard, and external bypass system ensure longterm durability, while customizable accessories like hoses, surface cleaners, and fuel tanks let contractors build the perfect mobile rig. The CTM Series saves time, boosts productivity, and gives crews flexibility to deliver results wherever the job takes them.
MI-T-M CORPORATION
Soft-Wash Units
www.mitm.com
800-553-9053
Mi-T-M’s new soft-wash units give contractors a safe, effective way to clean delicate, exterior surfaces. Delivering 300 psi at 11 gpm, they apply cleaning solutions with the right balance of low pressure and high volume to remove mold, mildew, and grime without causing damage. Built with corrosion-resistant materials, on a sturdy aluminum skid frame, these units are ready for truck or trailer installation. Perfect for roofs, siding, decks, and more, the soft-wash units expand professional cleaning capabilities, helping contractors offer more services, extend surface life, and deliver longlasting results.
SUTTNER AMERICA COMPANY
ST-1700
www.suttner.com
sales@suttner.com
800-831-0660
Suttner America Company is known for having an excellent selection of industrial grade spray guns. New for 2025, we have added the ergonomic design ideal for smaller hands spray gun (ST-1700). This spray gun offers a comfortable grip, reduces fatigue for long working hours, and is like our popular ST-2012 spray gun with inlet/ outlet angles like our ST-1500 & ST2000 spray guns. For more information, please call 800-831-0660, email sales@suttner.com, visit www.suttner.com, and/or visit our social media pages.
Each year Suttner America Company thrives to produce accessories and components to meet our customers’ needs and wants. We now have more soft wash spray gun options. We are happy to be introducing the 1/2 in. soft wash professional grade spray gun (ST2320). This spray gun will boost your soft washing performance with the innovative 1/2 in. soft wash gun designed for longevity, comfort and control. This is one of many new spray guns that are available. Be sure to stay up to date with all our new products. For more information, please call 800-831-0660, email sales@suttner.com, visit www.suttner.com, and/or visit our social media pages.
UDOR USA
A Series Plunger Pumps www.udorusa.com 651-785-0666
UDOR USA is proud to introduce the new A Series plunger pumps—the quality and performance you expect from UDOR in a compact package. Pumps feature the following:
• Solid ceramic plungers
• Stainless-steel check valves
• Heavy-duty, flat-base, high-pressure seals
• 2.4 to 4.0 gpm
• Up to 2900 psi
• Max fluid temp of 160°F
• Brass manifold
• Heat-treated crankshaft
• Stainless-steel piston guides
• High-strength aluminum alloy connecting rods
• Industrial-quality bearings
AK Series High-Pressure Plunger Pumps
www.udorusa.com
651-785-0666
UDOR USA expands its plunger pumps range again with the new AK Series highpressure plunger pumps. This comes with all the features of the new A Series pumps with increased, high-pressure performance.
Pump features include the following:
• Reinforced brass manifold to withstand increased pressure capability
• More robust bearings to withstand increased power requirements
• 2.4 to 4.0 gpm
• Up to 3625 psi (4000 psi on select models)
• Max fluid temp of 160°F
WHISPER WASH
XFORCE
Whisperwash.com
727-577-1292
In 2025 Whisper Wash released its patented hydroflow series 4-arm spray bar, the XFORCE, now available across most of our surface cleaner lineup. Engineered to deliver up to two times the cleaning efficiency, the XFORCE sets a new benchmark in design and functionality. Pair with the all-new 1/2 in. high-flow upgrade, the same system driving our exclusive Multi-Swivel Hippo Series. This combination unleashes our latest version of performance surface cleaners.
Together, they deliver unmatched performance and reliability, ensuring every job is finished faster and with greater precision.
WHISPER WASH
XFORCE Pro
Whisperwash.com
727-577-1292
XFORCE Pro represents the next evolution in surface cleaning technology from Whisper Wash, building on our patented Hydro-Flow XFORCE 4-arm spray bar. This upgraded system offers unmatched versatility and customization for professional contractors. With interchangeable multilength spray arms and innovative dual-tipped spray ends, operators can fine-tune performance for maximum coverage, efficiency, and precision on any job. Designed for high-flow systems, XFORCE Pro delivers superior results while reducing cleaning time, making it the most adaptable spray bar on the market. Engineered, tested, and manufactured in the USA— XFORCE Pro redefines what’s possible in professional surface cleaning.
SHOWCASE PROFILES
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.
ALKOTA CLEANING SYSTEMS
Wash Bay Series www.Alkota.com
Clean better with an Alkota Wash Bay series cold-water pressure washer. All units are UL listed and feature flow rates of 2–10 gpm with pressure of 1600–5000 psi. It has robust, highefficiency electric motors and belt-drive, industrial-grade triplex pumps. Additional features include a noncorrosive float tank, high-pressure detergent application, hour meter, and smart timer, and all units are remote ready. Alkota equipment is manufactured in the USA.
ALKOTA CLEANING SYSTEMS
430XM4
www.Alkota.com
Powerful and portable, the Alkota 430XM4 hot-water pressure washer is ready to work. With 3.8 gpm at 3000
psi, quick cleaning is at the ready. The 8 hp, 230 v electric motor belt drives the industrial-grade pump. Water is quickly heated with the oilfired burner sending 350,000 BTUs through the 18 in. schedule 80 coil. The 430X4 comes with fuel solenoid, temperature control, 50 ft. of hose, trigger gun, wand, and nozzles. Just add power, fuel, and water. Alkota equipment is manufactured in the USA.
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™.
APPELIX POWER WASH DRONES
Power Wash Drones
sales@apellix.com
904-647-4511
Apellix Power Wash Drones deliver industrial-grade cleaning to the built environment, tackling building facades and commercial or industrial structures using standard power wash systems up to 3500 psi at heights over 190 feet. This innovative solution streamlines the cleaning of complex, elevated surfaces while reducing operational downtime. Advanced flight controls and obstacle avoidance help keep personnel safely on the ground, minimizing risk and increasing productivity for challenging architectural features.
Engineered for rugged mobility and seamless installation, our truck-mounted, belt-driven 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.
BE POWER EQUIPMENT
B4224HETBAS
www.bepower equipment.com
800-663-8331
This BE Power Equipment Honda GX690 truck-mount, belt-driven, electricstart pressure washer is a high-performance, industrial-grade system designed for heavy-duty applications. The 688cc engine delivers smooth, fuel-efficient operation with electric start for effortless ignition. And the belt-drive triplex pump ensures RPM operation, reducing heat and wear for extended pump life. This unit provides consistent, high-powered cleaning for demanding environments. The heavy-duty steel frame is built for truck or trailer mounting, offering stability and vibration resistance.
BIOCLEAN SYSTEM & SUPPLY
Fleet Washing Business Expansion
www.biocleansystems.com
888-786-9130
Join the network of BioClean operators to gain instant support, real-world insights, and a community committed to your success. Benefit from mentorship, simplify training, expand your business, and redefine your fleet washing. Take your fleet washing to the next level with our powerful two-step system. Engineered for unbeatable results and unmatched efficiency, our high-quality detergents and durable equipment deliver the best wash in the industry. It’s time to grow with BioClean.
BluBird Industries is a global leader in manufacturing premium rubber hoses and autoretractable metal hose reels. With decades of expertise, the company designs lightweight, flexible, and ultra-durable products engineered for industrial, automotive, agricultural, and construction applications. BluBird is the only manufacturer worldwide producing both hoses and reels in-house, ensuring unmatched quality and performance. Backed by industry-leading warranties, BluBird delivers innovative solutions that enhance productivity, reduce fatigue, and provide long-lasting reliability for professionals and homeowners alike.
CAT PUMPS
Power and Reliability for Mobile Pressure Washing Models 7CP6185CS and 7CP6165CSG1
8 GPM @ 3,500 PSI
www.catpumps.com
763-780-5440
Designed for mobile pressure washing, Cat Pumps’ new models 7CP6185CS and 7CP6165CSG1 deliver 8 gpm and up to 3500 psi of dependable performance. Engineered with 316 stainless-steel valves and advanced seals, these models are built to handle demanding trailermounted applications while minimizing downtime. With flexible drive options, including gearbox, belt, and hydraulic, the 7CP Series integrates easily into mobile systems. Trusted worldwide, Cat Pumps delivers the durability to keep professionals working job after job.
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 800-5254970 or visit www.chappellsupply.com.
Boost your cleaning power with Raptor Blast’s new ½ in. grey smooth cover 4000 psi pressure washer hose. Engineered for 8–15 gpm systems, the larger diameter significantly reduces friction loss, allowing more water to reach the nozzle and increasing flow rate—especially with longer hose lengths or high-pressure machines. Built tough with a smooth cover for less marking and easy handling, this hose delivers the performance professionals need. Custom lengths are available. Call for more information.
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.
COMET|VALLEY INDUSTRIES
VIPower™ Lithiumbattery-powered Motor System
www.cometpump.com
The VIPower™ lithiumbattery-powered motor system, paired with the Comet P40 diaphragm pump, delivers the rugged performance professionals expect—without the noise, fumes, or upkeep of gas engines. Featuring Spray-I™ technology with a smart transducer, the system maintains consistent pressure across any soft wash setup. This plug-and-play solution is simple to install, offering reliable power and efficiency. With VIPower, users gain the same strength as gas but in a cleaner, smarter, and more convenient package.
COMET
P40
www.cometpump.com 800-864-1649
The new and improved Comet P40 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 solid-block 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.
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.
COXREELS ®
www.coxreels.com
COXREELS® manufactures heavy-duty, professional-grade hose, cord, and cable reels of the highest quality. Our comprehensive selection of USA-made reels includes spring retractable, hand crank, and motorized hose, cord, and cable reels, and our patented EZ-Coil® Safety Series spring retractable reels with controlled rewind. We are the worldwide leader in the reel industry and have been serving customers in residential, commercial, and industrial settings since 1923.
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 custommade kits! Call Farley’s Inc. at 800-522-2645; we look forward to hearing from you!
Delco Cleaning is excited to announce the release of the Dual Wash Pro! This patent-pending system combines high-pressure cleaning up to 4000 psi and soft washing up to 300 psi. Just simply choose the mode! Available with a variety of commercial-grade engines and flow rates up to 12 gpm, the Delco Dual Wash Pro can be easily integrated. Specially formulated materials make the Dual Wash Pro the best available choice for serious commercial cleaning personnel.
Wood warrior is a nobleach wood cleaner and brightener. It is safe to use on all types of wood—pine, cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. It’s great to use on fences, decks, wood siding, and docks.
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
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 full-flow, stainlesssteel 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.
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
Power Blast www.hydrus detergents.com 712-765-1060
Power Blast is a completely biodegradable, mild alkaline detergent designed to work with hot- or coldwater pressure washers. It is a versatile cleaner that’s safe to use on cars, trucks, SUVs, campers, boats, etc. It contains a proprietary package for use in hard or soft water conditions. Cleans polished aluminum, glass, plastics, brass, bronze, steel, aluminum, outdoor carpets, vinyl, zinc-plated parts and painted surfaces. Power Blast is also ideal for use in food processing facilities.
IDROBASE GROUP
Dolly Spare Parts www.idrobasegroup.com +39 049 933 6769
The Dolly Spare Parts line has been expanded with new compatible spare parts for professional pumps and a
section dedicated to semi-professional pressure washers. The most important internal components of high-pressure pumps, branded Idrobase Group and Made in Italy, guarantee maximum efficiency and double the life of the machines. 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 C HEMICAL
Mark Block www.itd.biz 800-472-1233
Mark Block is a clear, waterbased 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.
When you buy high-quality guns and swivels from J.E. Adams Industries, you are making an investment in your company. We believe in building highquality products that you can buy once and they will perform for years. When the inner components wear out, our repair kits offer an inexpensive way to make that trigger gun or swivel like new again. Don’t throw your money away with cheap, poor-quality imports; but invest today.
K ÄRCHER
Eco!Booster Karcher.com/us 888-805-9852
The Kärcher Eco!Booster is a revolutionary pressure washer accessory that boosts cleaning performance while saving resources. This innovative nozzle delivers 50 percent higher cleaning power than a standard flat jet, covering a wider area more quickly. It provides a superior, more even clean on delicate surfaces, all while using 50 percent less water and energy. The Eco!Booster is a commitment to efficiency and sustainability, proving that powerful cleaning can be ecofriendly and get the job done faster.
Issue 66 of the Kleen-Rite Pressure Wash Catalog is out now! This thorough, all-encompassing magazine continues to serve as a musthave 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 pressure wash magazine today or check out pressurewashersupplier.com!
Lease Consultants Corporation has been a trusted finance partner in the cleaning equipment industry since 1979. For over 45 years, LCC 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 financing information everywhere you sell equipment. Our online finance portal, EquipMoney.com, makes the process simple and works on any device. End users enjoy fast approvals, secure transactions through DocuSign, and exceptional customer service.
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.
MI-T-M CORPORATION
DHG Series Hot-water Pressure Washer www.mitm.com
800-553-9053
The Mi-T-M DHG Series hot-water pressure washer is built to power through grease, grime, and oil.
Delivering 4000 psi at 3.7 gpm, it combines a dependable Honda engine with an efficient Beckett burner system on a powder-coated steel frame. Easy to maneuver and designed for demanding environments, the DHG Series helps professionals get more done with less effort. This is a trusted choice for contractors and facilities that need powerful, reliable cleaning every day.
POWERJET
Fill & Play powerjetpressure.com
877-765-9211
PowerJet’s Fill & Play Packages are selfcontained and hasslefree 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 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 pressure washer applications. For more information, visit www.powerjetpressure.com or email sales@powerjetpressure.com.
PRESSURE SYSTEMS/ MIST AIR
The Ice Cube www.pressure systemsinc.com
602-253-6200
The Ice Cube is a power washing and comfort system with outdoor cooling and is available for distribution. The power washing comes in all sizes and volts, remote control, 4000 psi available, stainless and brass plumbing, and low rpm and maintenance. The comfort systems with outdoor cooling comes with 1250 psi mist, a six-year guarantee, stainless line, fly and skeeter control, and virus decontamination. It is manufactured with a carbon epoxy frame and thermo-molded cover. Contact Bill Sommers at 602-253-6200 or email wms@psi-mistair.com.
PRESSURE SYSTEMS INNOVATIONS
Bandit Chaing Gang Series Premium Belt Drive Skid www.pressuresystems innovations.com sales@pressuresystems innovations.com
of leading pressure washer manufacturers. Learn more at powermovingforward.com
The cold-water electric skid series has a 10 hp motor with 4.5 gpm and 3000 psi. It comes at 230 v/460 v. This is a three phase but can also be made in a single phase. It is well-built, commercial-grade, electric pressure washer. It has a quieter operation than gas engine and is easy to use and low maintenance. With unlimited run time as long as there’s an outlet, this pressure washer is user friendly, with an easy one-button start. There are no exhaust emissions, and it is built with a quality pump and motor.
R.W.
BECKETT
Tank-to-Flame™ Products
Beckettcorp.com
800-645-2876
Our latest evolution in premium-grade pressure washing technology is engineered for durability, efficiency, and easy servicing. It is performance with precision! Key features include a synchronized pulley system, 36 mm wide sprockets with a carbon fiber belt for ultra-reliable power transfer, an all-aluminum frame plate built from ¼ in. thick premium aluminum alloy with a compact footprint, and modular aluminum vented belt cover featuring a two-piece “Side Slide” technology. 8, 10, and 12 gallon-per-minute production units ranging in pressures from 2500 to 4000 psi with custom models available. Scan the QR code for more on the belt and Side Slide cover.
Promote CARB Compliance with Beckett’s Tankto-Flame™ Sustainability Solution
ProPulse’s made-in-the-USA UberFlex® hose is a major upgrade to the standard cold-water pressure washer hose. Its thermoplastic design delivers superior kink and abrasion resistance, UV and ozone protection, and length stability—while weighing up to 20 percent less than traditional rubber hose to help reduce user fatigue. A textured polyurethane cover reduces snagging and drag for easier handling. Rated to 4,000 psi and 140°F, UberFlex is the preferred choice
Our Tank-to-Flame™ suite of products are designed to help heated pressure washer manufacturers align with and drive the industry toward zero-carbon emissions and renewable fuel adoption. Our fully integrated fuel delivery and combustion solution is designed to maximize efficiency, reliability, and sustainability while also providing diagnostics for heated pressure washers. The R100 compatible burners, including the DC-powered ADC model, are designed to efficiently burn 100 percent renewable diesel while maintaining reliable, high-heat output. And the BeckettLink Pro and myTechnician enhances and simplifies troubleshooting for service teams and rental facilities to quickly diagnose and resolve burner issues, reducing downtime and service costs.
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 cold-water 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.
STANDARD PAINTS INC.
Wood Defender 200 Series Stain & Seal
800-658-KOTE www.wooddefender.com
steam. This destroys existing weeds and penetrates deep to eliminate seeds and spores, stopping regrowth before it starts. Beyond weeds, one trailer tackles gum removal, power washing, and outdoor sanitation. Safe, non-toxic, and cost-saving, FoamStream is the all-in-one system professionals cannot afford to ignore.
VAL6
FIR-X5
www.jsowill.com
360-226-3637
VAL6 maintains classleading 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?
VECTOR CHEMICALS
Hurricane www.vector chemicals.com 800-331-0347
Manufactured by Standard Paints, Inc., in Mansfield, Texas, Wood Defender® 200 Series Stain & Seal is designed for professional results with fewer steps. This oil-based formula penetrates deeply to protect against moisture, mildew, and UV damage during the life of the stain while enhancing the natural beauty of the wood. Available in a range of transparent and semi-transparent finishes, the 200 Series delivers rich color and lasting performance that contractors trust. Ideal for fences, decks, and other exterior wood surfaces, it’s built to save time and maximize durability. Ask for The Brand.
UNIVERSAL TRAILER
FoamStream
Trailer System
pressurewasher trailers.com
888-252-0706
Fewer treatments, less labor, and lower costs—the FoamStream trailer system is herbicide-free, organically certified, and engineered to outperform every other method. It combines near-boiling water with a biodegradable foam made from plant oils and sugars. The foam forms an insulating blanket that traps lethal heat up to six times longer than water or
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.
VELOCI PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
KobraJet Hose vppdealers.com 866-686-4020
Trusted by detailers and contractors alike, Veloci Performance Products’ KobraJet Hose delivers unmatched durability and performance for professionals who demand the best. Built with a non-marking, abrasion-resistant cover and reinforced for high-pressure use, the KobraJet
handles tough jobs with ease. Available in a range of colors, lengths, and pressure ratings, the KobraJet Hose is engineered to outlast and outperform standard hoses every time.
WAYNE COMBUSTION SYSTEMS
MSR Burners
www.wayne combustion.com
800-443-4625
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!
X-JET TECHNOLOGIES INC.
DS Twist
www.xjetnozzle.com 800-983-7467
Wayne Combustion’s compact MSR burners offer flexible solutions for 120 V ac, 240 V ac, or 12 V dc systems and are ideal for power washing applications. Designed for portability, MSR requires minimal amperage and features a low-current motor and solid-state ignitor. With customizable nozzles, oil gun settings, and air cones, MSR adapts to wideranging flame requirements. Options include custom flanges, various tube lengths, check valves, OEM specific wiring plugs, and 12 V dc safety controls. Wayne Combustion is pleased to tailor MSR to your needs.
WHISPER WASH
Whisperwash.com
727-577-1292
Whisper Wash surface cleaners are built by professionals, for professionals. For over 30 years we’ve pushed the limits of innovation, creating surface cleaners that set the industry benchmark. Proudly designed and manufactured in America, our equipment delivers the highest quality, unmatched durability, and game-changing performance. From our patented in-house swivel and spray bar technology to the legendary Multi-Swivel surface cleaners, Whisper Wash gives contractors the edge to finish faster, clean deeper, and dominate every job with confidence.
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 1-800-983-7467 to find a distributor near you or become one!
X-JET TECHNOLOGIES INC.
The Original X-Jet and X-Jet M5 www.xjet nozzle.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. CT
Trusted by contractors since 1998, Woodrich Brand offers premium wood cleaners, strippers,
WASTE OIL HEATERS
by Diane M. Calabrese
More electric vehicles (EVs) and more efficient internal combustion engines (ICE) add up to less waste from motor oil.
If motor oil is not used, as in the case of EVs, or is used more efficiently, there is less waste oil. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) promotes the concept of doing more with less, and in the whole it’s an approach everyone appreciates.
It’s not so much a problem as a fact, though, that if there is less motor oil waste, there’s a smaller stream for fueling waste oil heaters. Thus, the trajectory develops for fewer and fewer heaters in a world where suitable waste oil fuel is rarer and rarer.
But we aren’t there yet, and waste oil heaters are still part of the recycling through reuse landscape, except where they are prohibited.
The giants California and New York City both prohibit waste oil heaters. Many smaller municipalities across the country also do not allow them.
Therefore, the first thing to know about a waste oil heater is whether it can be deployed in a particular place. Maneuvering through the regulations regarding waste oil heaters can be daunting. More will be shared about the rules later.
Let’s start with a concise overview from Delany Johnson, senior manager, sales engineer at Wayne Combustion Systems in Ft. Wayne, IN. Then, we will dig a bit deeper.
“We don’t make waste oil burners,” says Johnson. “Some people use our burner housings and some of our burner components.”
The efficiency of on-site recycling—heat from waste oil—remains an exciting prospect. “But the biggest issue now is that there are lots of synthetic oils that don’t burn like conventional oil,” explains Johnson.
“So, if you were an oil change place, it used to be great to have a waste oil burner to heat the shop with ‘free fuel,’ as they would say,” says Johnson. “At one time it made a lot of sense for an oil shop to have a waste oil heater.” Of course, the fuel is only free if it’s available.
“The problem now is there are so many kinds of oils. Most all new cars take synthetic oil, and it lasts longer in cars,” explains Johnson. “That’s why now most cars are 5,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes when with old conventional oil it was 3,000 to 5,000 max.”
It’s not just less oil available to burn but also differences in the composition of the oil. The different oils don’t burn at the same temperature or require the same air setting.
Definitely, people are still using waste oil burners. “It’s kind of a weird market for us,” says Johnson. “We sell a lot of parts for the burners. We don’t make them because it requires a different pump.”
Synthetics do not burn the same as conventional oil, which gets high marks for clean and efficient burns. There are alternative fuel sources, such as cooking oil and grease, in use.
But it’s not possible to just dump cooking oil and grease into a conventional waste oil burner. Special filters and other modifications are needed. “The burners must be built to accommodate the kind of oil with an oil-specific manifold in many cases,” says Johnson.
Government mandates to use biofuels also lead to downstream challenges regarding types of oil and how each type is handled by a burner. Biofuels, a topic in their own right, can vex users in many ways.
If a certain percentage of fuel must be synthetic or biofuel, the owner of a waste oil heater would have to know the percentage of
conventional fuel versus alternative fuel in the mix to get the optimal burn. That’s because conventional fuel requires less air than synthetic fuel.
In the past, there might have been a waste oil heater that was close to a universal burner. That is, a burner that could make the most of any used motor oil.
That’s no longer true.
“We change our fuel sources so quickly,” says Johnson, that it’s not
possible to have a universal burner. Make that no universal burner right now.
Yet Johnson is sure that industry will catch up and be able to handle fuels of all sorts efficiently. There’s a huge amount of research and development going on that’s focused on dealing with waste oil—and other wastes—in the most environmentally respectful ways.
In fact, Johnson’s company is working on a furnace fueled by chicken
manure. If the chicken droppings on a chicken farm can be used on site to generate heat, the hatchlings that must be kept at 95 F to 100 F for three weeks could be kept warm without the introduction of an outside fuel.
SAFE SEPARATION
“Oil and water don’t mix” might be the best understood property in everyday physical chemistry. Apt, then, that EPA ran a motor oil recycling campaign with the tagline, “You dump it, you drink it.”
Used motor oil can be recycled through re-refinement and reused, but the move to synthetics has diminished that pathway.
Burning used motor oil makes sense both locally (waste oil heaters) and on a larger scale (e.g., power plants, cement kilns). At the local level, waste oil heaters provide a heat source— often the primary one. But they must be used with care and within the regulatory guidelines that govern them.
Safe separation applies not only to the objective of keeping oil out of our water supply (and soil), but also to the care needed in situating a waste oil heater on site. Like any heat-generating device—from a portable space heater to a furnace or stove—the waste oil heater should be placed in a space free from combustible material.
There’s ample guidance available about safe use of waste oil heaters from sources with a vested interest in reducing risk: insurance companies. Nationwide (Nationwide.com) offers an excellent primer titled “Waste oil heating safety” in pdf format for easy retrieval. See the website.
The “before purchase” tips in the Nationwide guide are excellent. For example, an external air compressor is recommended because of its reliability and because it produces less ash. And a triple-wall flue pipe, stainless steel preferred, is recommended over double-wall.
Standards that apply to waste oil heaters come from NFPA [National Fire Protection Association] and UL in addition to government regulators.
Always choose a product from a manufacturer that offers a heater certified by a nationally recognized testing group.
Waste oil is also used oil. And used oil is regulated by the EPA under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The act “gives EPA the authority to control hazardous waste from cradle to grave.”
For a tabular breakdown of what “used oil is” and what “used oil is not,” see the reference table from the EPA titled “What is Used Oil?” via https://www.epa.gov/hw/referencetable-question-what-used-oil. The table contains some surprises, such as vegetable and animal oil being assigned to the “not” column.
The is/is not used oil tabulation raises an interesting point about environmentally friendly initiatives. Presumably because they are fully biodegradable, vegetable and animal oils merit an exclusion. Still, EPA itself adds the note that the biodegradable
oils could still pose a threat to the environment; and if they do, they may be subjected to RCRA rules for hazardous waste management.
In the broadest sense, used oil is any oil that was refined from crude and then used or any synthetic oil that has been used. Because it has been used, it has picked up and been “contaminated” by impurities.
The impurities could range from water and dirt to chemicals or metal scrapings. Whatever the impurities are, they enter the waste oil heater burner with the waste oil. Heavy metal impurities can be expected to form deposits on the heater (coils). So, expect to do periodic cleaning not only of a waste oil heater’s flue but also of its coil apparatus.
EPA is not quite as keen on burning waste oil for heat as it is on some other methods of dealing with it (e.g., rerefinement). The reason is that once it’s burned, oil cannot be reused again. Why does this matter? There’s a great
deal of federal investment in projects designed around waste oil—i.e. doing something useful with it—so expect competition for waste oil that may make operating a waste oil heater less of a positive economic proposition in some regions.
The situation with waste oil heaters parallels the one playing out with wood boilers. An abundance of wood shavings and cutoff wood at sawmills encouraged many mill owners to choose the boilers as a heat source for buildings or kilns. Now, however, power plants compete for the wood to meet their bio-generation goals, goals usually spawned by state and local regulators. And wood grinders (to make specifically sized, saleable chips) have replaced wood boilers at many facilities.
Waste oil heaters, like wood boilers, will continue to be a good choice for some enterprises, especially for enterprises with a source of waste oil on site or in the immediate vicinity. CT
CETA SCHOLARS 2025 – 2026
by Diane M. Calabrese
Meet here (introduced in alphabetical order) the eight Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) Scholars for 2025–2026. Aspirations run high among the eight award winners. Given their many contributions and successes to date, the scholars will meet their current goals and the many more that they will set for themselves.
Expect a pediatric nurse and a veterinarian, a lawyer and a medical
illustrator, as well as a human resources specialist and a civil engineer to join the ranks of the past CETA scholars who completed their studies and entered their communities. The contributions of the CETA scholars will, of course, extend well beyond their professional endeavors. Indeed, the scholars are already fully engaged in society. As formal and informal mentors and as role models they will strengthen community ties, and in doing so they will add to the strength that CETA
RACHEL CLASEN
Sponsoring Company—
CETA Scholarship Foundation
members themselves impart to communities each day.
[NOTE on format: The “sponsoring company” listed beneath the name of each CETA Scholar is the CETAmember company that contributed to the scholarship. The “member company” cited is the manufacturer, distributor, or supplier affiliation that made the scholar an eligible applicant. A sidebar (CETA Scholarship Basics) summarizes the mechanics of the CETA Scholarship application and selection process.]
A sophomore majoring in psychology and human resources at the University of Northern Iowa, Rachel Clasen spent the summer of 2025 as an intern in the human resources department at Victory Ford in Dyersville, IA. The internship gave her the opportunity to lead orientation sessions for new hires. “While the classroom information is important, I’ve felt that this internship has offered me new perspective towards my career and instilled confidence in me that I am more than capable of achieving my academic goals,” she says. Member Company— ProPulse, A Schieffer Company
PAIGE DAVIDSON
Sponsoring Company— Mi-T-M Corporation
A senior majoring in biology and studio art at Gustavus Adolphus College, Paige Davidson sees medical illustration in her future. “This year I took it upon myself to accumulate upper-level biology courses—molecular biology and genetics—to bolster my future applications to medical illustration graduate programs,” she says. By challenging herself and earning top marks in the upper-level biology courses, Davidson says she discovered the importance of trusting in oneself to take on and meet challenges. And she discovered the value of hands-on experience in lab work. Member Company—Cat Pumps
HOPE HAASE
Sponsoring Company—Chappell Supply and Equipment, in memory of Blake Chappell
The University of Wisconsin—Madison is where Hope Haase has begun her freshman year of study in pharmaceutical sciences. She does so after completing her first international travel, a trip that took her to Italy with a school group. “Immersing myself in Italian culture, from observing daily rituals in local piazzas to experiencing different approaches to community and family life, taught me that growth occurs when we step outside our comfort zones,” says Haase. “The journey fundamentally changed my approach to life by making me more curious about different perspectives and more confident in facing unfamiliar situations.” Member Company—ProPulse, a Schieffer Company
CARTER HANSEN
Sponsoring Company— Chappell Supply and Equipment
In pursuit of a degree in business administration, Carter Hansen is a first-year student at Morningside University. A member of the basketball team, he sees much to be learned by playing a competitive sport and matriculating. “The journey through the ups and downs with my basketball teammates and coaches will be an experience that will take me thorough the rest of my life,” says Hansen. “While basketball is the focus, making new friends and sharing experiences with those new friends are the memories that will last a lifetime.”
Member Company— Alkota Cleaning Systems Inc.
JARED JAMES
Sponsoring Company—R.W. Beckett Corporation
A double major in political science and criminal justice, Jared James is in his sophomore year at John Brown University. He plans to attend law school following completion of his undergraduate degree. A summer class in social psychology is one James recalls with great appreciation. The instructor challenged the class “to reflect and think about how the topics covered reflect our need for Christ’s redemption,” says James. Member Company—FNA Group
GRACE KELLER
Sponsoring Company— Pacific Bay Equipment Service & Sales
In her first year of studies at Frederick Community College, Grace Keller looks forward to a career in pediatric nursing. She began working with children through a special program for educating preschoolers offered by her high school. “This preschool program made me realize that I have a passion for working with children,” says Keller. “Becoming a pediatric nurse means everything to me.” Member Company—McHenry Pressure Cleaning Systems
ANNA VAN OTTERLOO
Sponsoring Company— Royce Industries L.C.
Civil engineering is the major of Anna Van Otterloo, who is in her junior year at Iowa State University. A study abroad program during her previous semester “renewed her approach to life,” she says. “My class spent three weeks in Italy at Politecnico di Torino but had opportunities to learn in more places than the classroom,” says Van Otterloo. She adds that the combination of immersion in culture and history, as well as in engineering, reminded her to “live in every moment and welcome every day” as an opportunity to explore and do new things.
Member Company—Mi-T-M Corporation
CAMRYN WILLIAMS
Sponsoring Company—Lease Consultants Corporation
A sophomore at Purdue University, Camryn Williams studies animal sciences, which is part of the concentration in pre-veterinary medicine. “One group I’ll be involved with this year through the veterinary hospital is Foal Watch, where pre-vet students take roundthe-clock shifts monitoring pregnant mares and newborn foals,” says Williams. “And a service opportunity that I’m really looking forward to is acting as a mentor in College Mentors for Kids, which pairs 2,000 at-risk first through sixth grade children with Purdue students in after-school activities.” Member Company—BE Power Equipment
CETA SCHOLARSHIP BASICS
The CETA Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to as many as nine qualifying applicants (students of CETA members or their employees) annually on a competitive basis. An applicant must be a full-time student for the academic year beginning with fall semester at a college, community college, technical college, university, or graduate school. In general, scholarships are awarded in each of the three eligible membership classes: manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. A ranking of applicants by an independent evaluator at an accredited university determines scholarship recipients. If a qualified applicant cannot be identified in one or more of the membership classes, one (or more) at-large scholarship(s) is awarded to the remaining applicant(s) with the highest ranking(s) regardless of his or her membership class. [This year, the representation of membership classes is four manufacturers, three suppliers and one distributor.]
CETA member companies that sponsor scholarships gain recognition. Any member company may pledge any amount for scholarships. The company is then added as a sponsor on the scholarship and recognized at all CETA meetings. Funds donated beyond those required to support (potentially) nine annual scholarships are added to an endowment aimed at creating a self-funding scholarship program.
See www.ceta.org to read more about the CETA Scholarship Foundation. CT
INDUSTRY NEWS
PWNA’S 1ST ANNUAL EDUCATION SUMMIT: BUILDING THE NEXT WAVE OF MEMBER TRAINING
PWNA board members from across the country gathered in mid-August to do what we do best: share expertise and build real-world education for contractors. Over two focused days, our team is filming eight new classes at the Expert Safety Services (ESS) all-inclusive training facility just outside Chicago.
Why This Matters
Our goal is simple: give PWNA members training that’s practical, current, and easy to apply in the field whether you’re scaling a team or sharpening your safety game. And as always, every session is being filmed with safety in mind,
reinforcing our commitment to the industry’s best practices.
What We’re Filming
We’re capturing a mix of classroom and hands-on content designed to help crews work smarter, protect customers’ properties, and operate safely:
• Marketing 101
• Marketing 102
• Plant & Property Protection
• Holiday Lights
• Plus four additional classes rounding out this first release These courses are slated to be available to PWNA members by the end of 2025 inside your member portal.
Where It’s Happening
A huge thank you to Michael Draper and the ESS team for opening their doors. ESS hosts live, in-person training
throughout the year, and this partnership lets us combine that on-site excellence with on-demand access for members.
Who’s Making It Happen
It’s a true board effort. Special thanks to Mike Dingler, Trevor Shamblin, Bo Josetti, Jim Pasternak, Daryl Mirza, and Raph Hamelain and to the many PWNA leaders contributing their time, tools, and field experience to make these classes rock-solid.
What’s Next
Once editing wraps up, we’ll roll the courses into the PWNA training library. If you’re a member, watch your inbox and the portal for release dates and enrollment details.
For more information about PWNA and our training programs, visit www. pwna.org. CT
PUMP TECHNOLOGY EVOLUTION
by Diane M. Calabrese
No two snowflakes are alike. The universe spans 93 billion light years at its greatest breadth.
Count the variation in snowflakes and the size of the universe as amazing assertions not one of us can verify. How about a simpler assertion, such as if all pumps stopped working, the world would come to a stop—metaphorically?
Technically, we should make that pumps and compressors, but that strict dichotomy—roughly liquids for the former and gasses for the latter—is one we will glide over for simplicity. As for a pumpless world, it would not be new, just different and much more densely populated than the last time it prevailed.
Gravity and topography, as well as the forces of wind and water, kept things moving before there were pumps. Of course, inventors have been engaged with pumps for a long time— no doubt longer than the history recorded for pumps.
As for the history of pumps, determination of the first culture or person to develop a counterweight mechanism for lifting water (e.g., shadoofs in Egypt 2000 BC) or make a water organ isn’t easy. Convergence across cultures certainly occurred.
Nevertheless, finding a chronology of pump development across millennia and more recent years is as easy as entering the simplest query in a search engine. But what’s been going on in more recent years?
One of the most fascinating features of pumps is their range of sizes. Infusion pumps that deliver therapeutic drugs and other medical ancillaries to patients have been getting smaller and smaller.
Infusion pumps, like pumps of all kinds, have also been paired with digital tools. The digital coupling makes it possible to administer drugs with more precision and fewer errors. At the other end of the spectrum, there are enormous pumps in service that in some cases keep water out and in other instances lift water to where it’s needed.
One large pump station is located in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. It was built to protect the community from a 100-year storm surge. The specs on the Pelican State pump station (11 vertical pumps) in 2024 were these: power to the pump (pumps) supplied by 12-cylinder, 5400 horsepower Caterpillar diesel engines, which allow water to be expelled at 20,000 cubic feet per second.
Whether small, large, or aggregated (stations), pumps require maintenance. And the fusion of digital technology with monitors and sensors simplifies the process of staying ahead of problems.
The individuals and manufacturers in the pump sphere think about pumps in a much more exacting way than those of us who simply use pumps. While we may be fascinated by size and volume moved per unit time, engineers continue to refine pumps.
Ongoing improvements in pumps constitute technological evolution. Many of the changes are small and gradual. Occasionally, there will be a big or quantum change.
SLOW, STEADY, AND SIGNIFICANT
Each person sees pumps through a unique lens.
But we all have a notion of ranking in just about every context. So, let’s do a bit.
“One of the most significant advancements in pump evolution, particularly for high-pressure, continuous-duty applications like pressure cleaning, has been the shift from basic single-seal designs to advanced multi-seal systems,” says Derek Majewski, CFPS, marketing and business development specialist with Cat Pumps Corporation in Minneapolis, MN. “Our company’s original wetseal design was a defining innovation in pump engineering.”
As with much innovation, the wet-seal design led to a cascade of good outcomes. “This approach dramatically reduced wear, leakage,
and downtime by lubricating the high-pressure seal on the front and back sides with the pumped liquid,” explains Majewski. “It allowed pump seals to run cooler and last significantly longer in demanding environments.”
“Longer lasting” may not be the two most beautiful words in the
WHETHER OR NOT TECHNOLOGIES WILL
EVER
EMERGE
THAT ALLOW PUMPS TO CARRY ON SIGNIFICANT WORK WHEN POWERED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES REMAINS AN OPEN QUESTION. A PREDICTABLE AND ROBUST OFF-GRID POWER SOURCE FOR PUMPS WOULD ACCELERATE THE IMPROVEMENT OF LIVING CONDITIONS FOR PEOPLE STILL DESPERATELY IN NEED OF CLEAN WATER, SEWAGE TREATMENT, AND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS.
English language, but they mean a lot to equipment owners. “Increasing durability is paramount for pressure cleaning applications, where pumps are expected to perform daily in truck wash bays, industrial surface prep, and mobile systems,” says Majewski.
“The wet-seal design established a new standard for reliability, proving that better engineering up front pays off over the long run in performance,
service life, and cost of ownership,” explains Majewski.
What about quantum changes? Have any of them caught the attention of Majewski?
“Integrating compact, high-efficiency pumps—such as the Cat Pumps 3CP, 5CP, and 7CP series pumps—with lightweight aluminum bell housings and flexible couplers represents a significant leap forward,” says Majewski. “Many of
these pumps are optimized to pair with 4-pole electric motors and engineered to deliver full-duty-cycle performance in a significantly smaller footprint.”
Reducing footprint size and retaining top performance means pump users have more design options. “This development has expanded where and how cleaners can deploy pressure cleaning systems,” says Majewski.
“From tight prep bays to mobile equipment, operators can now access industrial-grade performance in places that previously required larger, more complex setups,” explains Majewski. “It’s a significant evolution requiring less space and decreased complexity, without compromising reliability or output.”
New levels of function and service from pumps can be expected to continue (as they have done for millennia). “Smart diagnostics and predictive maintenance integration remain the next frontier,” says Majewski.
And the diagnostics and predictive maintenance will be complementary to what already is. “While Cat Pumps has built its reputation on mechanical simplicity and robust design, adding real-time condition monitoring for seals, valves, and oil without sacrificing durability could offer customers even more control over system performance and life-cycle cost,” explains Majewski.
The range of industries and applications served by pump manufacturers is staggeringly large—mining, oil and gas, shipping, water and sewage, etc. Consistent performance across such a wide range of applications is part of the day-to-day at leading pump makers. How do they accomplish it?
“For our company the answer lies in precision manufacturing, rigorous life testing, and a design philosophy rooted in reliability over complexity,” says Majewski. “That’s how we build pumps that customers trust when it matters most.”
RENEWABLE OUTLOOK
Whether or not technologies will ever emerge that allow pumps to carry on significant work when powered by renewable energy sources remains an open question. A predictable and robust off-grid power source for pumps would accelerate the improvement of living conditions for people still desperately in need of clean
water, sewage treatment, and irrigation systems.
To be sure, small/modular nuclear power plants would contribute to the same improvements. But there’s limited interest in expanding nuclear power because of a combination of geopolitical considerations.
Perhaps because nuclear power is shunned in many regions, some renewable advocates are trying to identify renewable-powered pump demonstration projects that can be replicated. Solar and wind would seem to be the most likely candidates, but put water itself in the mix.
A 2019 research paper in Water by Zambrano et al. (entitled “Water Lifting Water: A Comprehensive Spatiotemporal Review on the Hydro-Powered Water Pumping Technologies”) reported on a review of more than 800 documents (mostly from nations in Africa and Asia) that indicate there’s feasibility for hydropowered pumps as an alternative to electric- or diesel-based ones. (The open-access paper cited can be found easily in a web search.)
Essentially, the authors of the 2019 article believe there are possibilities in developing a turbine pump—to both generate power and move water—by using only water as the input. Thus, the pump would truly be powered by renewable energy and suitable for use in regions where nonrenewable energy sources are unavailable or scarce.
Yes, turbine pumps are already in use across the world. But what researchers seeking a renewable-only source of power to the pump want to develop are pumps that rely exclusively on hydro-mechanical energy (i.e., no processes involving electro- or electrochemical processes).
There is a distance to travel before solar-powered pumps can match electric-powered pumps. Research and development still must solve constraints on the power generation side (e.g., available sunlight, photovoltaic panel construction) and on the delivery side (e.g., battery storage).
Will the next technological threshold that’s crossed in the evolution of pumps be the advent of pumps powered by renewables? Probably not. No, certainly not.
The amount of work that pumps accomplish—look again at the example from Belle Chasse—cannot be had with an input of power that may ebb unexpectedly because of clouds or a battery that needs recharging. And rate of water flow in natural settings is not constant.
Even so, some amazing outcomes have happened in the realm of pumps. Consider the human heart, the work it does, and how it is fueled. Described as “tireless,” the heart like any pump must be maintained. But the human heart definitely speaks to the belief that things are possible.
As with snowflakes and the universe, there’s much we still don’t know, including what exactly comes next in pumps. CT
THE HUGE CONVENTION 2025 DRAWS 1,500
ATTENDEES TO
The Huge Convention 2025 welcomed more than 1,500 registered attendees to Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, bringing together a large crowd of
pressure washing, window cleaning, and related service professionals.
The exhibit hall featured nearly 100 exhibitors offering equipment, software, and business services designed to support contractor growth and efficiency. Vendors reported steady booth traffic as attendees explored new technology, compared product lines, and connected with suppliers who understand the needs of exterior service companies.
NASHVILLE
Education remained a central focus. This year’s schedule included 32 breakout sessions covering business management, marketing strategies, employee development, and technical best practices. Designed to serve both new entrants and seasoned professionals, the classes emphasized practical knowledge contractors could implement immediately.
One notable trend was the heightened interest in holiday light installation. Many contractors explored opportunities to expand their offerings with Christmas light hanging, a seasonal service that has seen growing demand and provides additional revenue during slower months.
With strong attendance, an active show floor, and a comprehensive educational program, The Huge Convention 2025 was a great experience for attendees and exhibitors. The 2026 event will be held in Orlando on August 25th and 26th. For more info visit https://the hugeconvention.com/home. CT
Photo
by Diane M. Calabrese
Break even? A must as soon as possible. Once achieved, though, a break-even point is only the start. Make that the foundation.
Profit is the first goal of any business. Maintaining profits is the second.
How can the second goal be met in good times and challenging ones alike? Let’s start with some perspective from two veterans of our industry.
Businesses that maintain profits take a proactive approach to the fullest extent possible. There will be adverse economic times to come, even for a business that has not yet experienced them.
An accurate understanding of cost centers in relation to income-producing lines allows a company to quickly make adjustments that can trim unnecessary expenses. The trimming simultaneously boosts profits.
Roy G. Chappell, the CEO of Chappell Supply and Equipment in Oklahoma City, OK, gives us one example of a detail that should be known to be proactive. Be sure to record the “incoming cost and freight duties on each invoice,” he says. “This
There’s nothing easy about maintaining profits. The maintenance requires determination and constancy in the context of a clear goal.
Yes, we read endless news articles about Instagram and YouTube influencers who are swimming in profit. But it sometimes becomes reminiscent of the dot.com bubble—or much longer ago, tulip mania.
At some juncture tangibles come into play. Machinery and tools must be made and operated and put to exacting uses so infrastructure and societal networks do not fray. Thus, maintaining profits encompasses a realistic outlook. Is video production a core element of a business or an ephemeral one?
The aphorism about the nuts and bolts of an endeavor applies nowhere better than in business. Influencers, for instance, may operate as sole proprietors. But if their profit is real and substantial, they must have a financial structure. They probably also require some help, even employees.
Employees add another dimension. In a solid business, employee compensation and retention are perennial considerations. The considerations
Social Security, taxes, unemployment, etc.,” says Chappell. It becomes a costcenter change that can be significant.
“When you give a raise, make it effective within 30 days,” says Chappell. And even during an interval when no payroll changes are being made, monitor the changes in indirect compensation (e.g., insurance) that spring up at less than 90-day intervals.
The 90-day interval should not be allowed to slip by the attention of an owner. “Reminder, you need to figure your cost of doing business every 90 days plus the different tariffs that are effective,” says Chappell.
“It is more important that tariffs alone can put your profit into a negative in 90 days or less,” explains Chappell. “Profits should be a steady percentage with little movement up or down on the following: cost, duties, freight cost, and cost of doing business.”
In the cost of doing business, think thoroughly. Include rent payment, building, land, wages, and so on, says Chappell. Including the full cost of doing business in regular evaluations keeps a company nimble.
MAINTAINING PROFITS
way you keep your cost per item current with each shipment received.”
Backing up for a second, we realize this kind of forward-looking recordkeeping on all costs related to items and components received allows for a measured and fast response should unusual perturbations occur. Sudden tariff increases serve as an example.
constitute one of the most difficult parts of maintaining profits.
Adjusting cost of doing business whenever an employee receives a raise is essential to maintaining profits, explains Chappell. That’s because it’s not just the amount of a raise that must be factored into costs.
It may be a raise for one or several employees “that mounts up fast with
“If you are recalculating the cost of business every 90 days, changes will be modest,” explains Chappell. “What will make it change more significantly is the volume of business you do monthly.”
For example? If the average revenue per month is one million dollars and it drops for a month to $800,000, the costs per dollar of profit will increase.
In other words, “your business costs will jump and your profits will drop for that month,” explains Chappell.
“If your sales are $1,200,000 for a month, your business costs will drop due to the higher volume of business,” says Chappell. “Therefore, profits will increase.”
The more complete the picture of cost centers, revenue streams, and profit margins that a business has, the better it can plan. Since a critical part
of planning is being prepared for the unexpected, precision in analysis undergirds efforts to maintain profits. The precision also enables decisions to be made regarding shift in focus. Maintaining profits may mean additions or subtractions to a company.
MORE GOOD ADVICE
“One of the most effective steps we’ve taken is strengthening and diversifying recurring revenue streams,
especially in service, parts, and detergents,” says R. Calvin Rasmussen, president of Royce Industries, L.C., which is headquartered in West Jordan, UT. “While equipment sales can ebb and flow with the economy, businesses still need their machines running.”
Be attuned to opportunities. And take them when feasible and appropriate.
“We’ve leaned into preventive maintenance programs, service contracts, equipment rentals, and bundled accessory/detergent solutions that keep customers engaged and equipment operational,” says Rasmusen. “These efforts not only build loyalty but also generate consistent, highermargin revenue that helps stabilize profits during slower capital equipment cycles.”
Surely, even with the optimism that derives from readiness to make changes to a business, there are some difficult times. What is the most difficult part of maintaining profits even with the positive outlook we all strive to hold? “The hardest part is discipline, maintaining pricing integrity, and not chasing volume at the expense of margin,” says Rasmussen.
“In tough times, it’s tempting to discount your way to the next deal. But we’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that erosion in margin is much harder to recover from than a temporary dip in volume,” explains Rasmussen. “Staying focused on value—through quality equipment, service excellence, what sets our company apart from others, and customer education—is critical to resisting that race to the bottom.”
Although Rasmussen does not define “race to the bottom,” we all have an inherent understanding of the phrase. We know that the race is one none of us wants to enter, a race that includes more than prices.
Quality in products and excellence are two facets of maintaining profits that merit repetition. Read any online discussions about products and companies. The same concerns, irrespective of the industry, appear repeatedly.
There’s no hope of maintaining profits if customers vanish or shrink in number. So, what do customers want? Isn’t it the lowest price?
Customers want a fair price—a price that is coupled with a quality product and/or service.
Customers also want the process of buying from a company to be punctuated by cordial encounters with all members of the team. A company will have a difficult time maintaining profits without polite and competent team members supporting excellent products and services.
BEING REALISTIC
Customers first and last—without buyers there is no business. Periodically, a company ought to try to see its business the way a customer does.
And that does not mean offering the customer another satisfaction survey. It means going to the company website and navigating it. If there are chatbots, make sure they do not stifle queries instead of addressing them, thereby frustrating prospective buyers.
Any barriers to customer navigation should be carefully considered. How many sales are lost when a customer rejects the idea of picking out all the images with stoplights before he or she can place an order or request more information on a product?
In the interest of security and economizing, companies now do many things that unintentionally impede prospective customers eager to connect with them. Consider an analogy that begins with security bars on windows and doors.
There’s never been a pause in the fire safety debate about whether bars on windows and doors promote security or increase risk (slowing egress in a fire). But whether real or metaphorical, security measures, including phone screening, should not be too restrictive.
Maintaining profits begins, as noted at the beginning of this article, with the achievement of a break-even point. Once a company breaks even,
it has many options for building on the foundation.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA.gov) offers a break-even analysis calculator as well as some ideas regarding what a business can learn from the analysis. The benefits of the analysis include smarter pricing and smarter decisions as well as the ability to identify missing expenses and set revenue targets.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of taking the time for some form of
break-even analysis is that it helps a business to avoid financial strain. A new product line or location might be enticing, but it could take too great a financial toll—one that might sink the business.
Maintaining profits requires the discipline to accurately assess financial status and then to avoid over-extension precipitated by exuberance, or no extension borne of caution. It’s an ongoing process of balancing. CT
All images courtesy of Jetstream of Houston LLP. Winterization is critical to keep waterblasting equipment in good working condition and maintain operator safety. Water should be completely drained from the waterblasting tank and system when the unit will be sitting idle in cold weather.
Extreme weather conditions, especially freezing temperatures, require special care for waterblasting equipment. Routine maintenance is always important, but requirements ramp up when temperatures drop below freezing. Winterization is critical to keep the equipment in good working condition and maintain operator safety. For example, a unit damaged by freezing water has an increased risk of having hoses burst or fittings fly away from the unit. Knowing the condition of the machine and the weather conditions of the worksite help determine what precautions to take.
Review these tips on when and how to winterize a waterblasting unit.
WHEN TO WINTERIZE A WATERBLASTING UNIT
Does a waterblasting unit need to be winterized if it’s in use? Waterblasting units can be used in cold weather, even in freezing temperatures. When in use, the unit creates enough heat to avoid freezing. However, it does need to be run continuously when in freezing temperatures. If the unit will sit idle, operators can either winterize it or place it in heated storage. Some contractors use storage units or insulated shipping containers to protect their waterblasting unit when it sits idle in the winter. Other contractors who choose to leave the unit outdoors for extended periods winterize instead.
If the waterblasting unit is used periodically throughout the season, winterization can be completed multiple times as needed. Make sure to drain the water before any idle time to keep the equipment in top condition, even when traveling between jobsites.
Some contractors travel long distances with their equipment. Take caution from one contractor, who transported their waterblasting trailer through a mountain pass where they reached a high elevation where the temperatures dipped below freezing.
WATERBLASTING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND HOWTOWINTERIZEYOUR WATERBLASTINGUNIT
By Rich Gomes, Director of Sales,
Jetstream of Houston, LLP
When they reached the jobsite, they found that the waterblasting unit sustained damage because they didn’t drain the water from the system. Knowing the weather and temperature in locations where the unit will travel can help protect it against inclement weather, including conditions caused by high altitudes.
HOW TO WINTERIZE A WATERBLASTING UNIT
Water should be completely drained from the waterblasting tank and system when the unit will be sitting idle in cold weather. First, disconnect the water lines and allow water to drain fully. Then, add a glycol-based antifreeze into the waterblasting system. The amount required will vary depending on the system. Run the antifreeze through the system by turning on the engine and letting it idle. Apply light pressure to the clutch handle to gently “feather” the engine. Let the plungers move back and forth slowly until the antifreeze discharges from the system. Once this happens, disengage the clutch and shut off the engine. Drain the lines fully of antifreeze and completely clean off the unit to ensure the water piping system is protected.
While most waterblasting units follow these general guidelines, be sure to read the owner’s manual and follow the specific procedure for each unit to ensure proper winterization. Make sure to complete all winterization requirements to manufacturer spec to keep the waterblasting unit safe throughout the winter months.
WORKING THROUGH THE WINTER
Weather directly impacts the safety of a waterblasting unit. Make sure to keep an eye on the forecast when working and traveling to ensure the unit doesn’t require winterization before, during, or after use. When in doubt, the best option is still to winterize the machine to protect against damage. CT
AFFORDABLE SMARTER WORKERS
by Mark E. Battersby
G
iven all that is going on today, many within the pressure washing industry are struggling to cope with a shortage of qualified job applicants and skilled workers. Fortunately, this problem—and a smarter work force—can be achieved with the help of federal and state programs, agencies, and organizations. Related costs can be reduced with tax deductions and credits—all unlikely to be impacted by any changes.
Every pressure washing business needs qualified workers. Obviously, new hires can be trained, usually with the cost offset with tax deductions or tax credits for hiring from select groups. There are also a number of programs designed to train people, often to meet the needs of a particular business or industry.
PRE-TRAINED
Having someone else train job applicants to meet a business’s hiring requirements at no cost is possible thanks to a number of government programs at both the state and federal level. At the federal level are programs created to provide workers that meet specific industry needs such as the following:
• The Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA) is a federal law that provides funding and guidance to states for workforce development programs.
• The H-1B Workforce Grant Program focuses on innovative workforce challenges, forging public-private partnerships between industry, education, and workforce systems—at least according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
• The DOL’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) offers various grants for skills training, including those focused on critical sectors, community colleges, and rural communities.
• The Registered Apprenticeship Program offers structured onthe-job training combined with
classroom instruction, helping business develop a skilled workforce and improve employee retention.
Most of these and other similar programs are administered by state employment services or, in many cases, by an independent agency. The common goal of these programs is helping employers find applicants, often training them, and with at least one program, footing a sizeable portion of the wages of workers hired from within select groups.
WOTC
Uncle Sam, in the form of the IRS and the Department of Labor (DOL), wants to help businesses reduce their labor costs. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers that hire individuals from groups that have consistently faced significant barriers to employment.
Best of all, the WOTC is a tax credit that, unlike a deduction from taxable income, directly reduces the annual tax bill. In other words, the WOTC is a direct, dollar-for-dollar write-off, and it isn’t chicken feed.
In general, the WOTC equals up to 40 percent of up to $4,000 in wages paid to or incurred on behalf of an individual who
• Is in their first year of employment
• Is certified as being a member of a targeted group, and
• Performs at least 400 hours of service for the pressure cleaning operation.
That generally works out to a maximum tax credit of $2,400. Lower tax credits are available for hiring qualified individuals who perform less than full-time work for the pressure washing operation.
For disabled veterans, the credit may be available for the first $24,000 of wages or up to $9,600 per worker. And, once again, the tax credit, unlike a tax deduction, offsets the employer’s final tax bill.
Unfortunately, the WOTC is “nonrefundable,” meaning the employer
AFTER ENSURING THE OPERATION CAN AFFORD
THE PATH CHOSEN FOR BETTER QUALIFIED JOB APPLICANTS AND A SMARTER WORK FORCE SEEKING GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS, TAX DEDUCTIONS AND UNIQUE WRITE-OFFS ABOUND.
must have a so-called tax “liability” against which to use the credit. However, a pressure-washing business without a tax bill can carry the
current year’s unused WOTC back one year and then forward for up to 20 years. Remember, though, that unless extended, the WOTC expires after December 31, 2025.
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING
Acquiring the skilled workforce needed to enhance productivity, improve the quality of work, and/or deliver better customer service remains difficult. Since a pressure-washing business is often better qualified to train future employees, one possible solution might involve investing in an apprenticeship program.
An informal apprenticeship program or on-the-job training is always an option. A pressure cleaning business may deduct the cost of “ordinary and necessary” expenses paid for employee education and training— even amounts paid to others.
It should also be noted that the cost of education for the pressure cleaning contractor or business owner is tax
deductible. The education or training must “maintain or improve skills required in the trade or business,” or the education must be required by law or regulations for maintaining a license, status, or job.
Obviously, apprenticeship programs can come in a variety of forms, formal and informal. A formal program is one usually offered with the help of state, local, or trade organizations. Equipment manufacturers and distributors often offer similar programs that combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
There are a number of benefits a pressure washing business can provide its employees, benefits which are not taxable to them but are deductible by the business. The first and easiest is for the business to pay for educational courses that maintain or increase an employee’s existing skills. This can mean paying for an Excel course for a secretary or bookkeeper.
The course must fall under the condition of a “working condition fringe benefit,” and there should be a written plan, which doesn’t have to be formal. It is important that the course is related to the employee’s current employment and is something that won’t help qualify the employee for a new job or trade.
BASIC SMARTS
Every pressure cleaning business can claim a deduction for the cost of traing and supplies for an apprentice. So long as the expenses are ordinary and necessary business expenses, the cost of providing training, tools, equipment, uniforms, and other supplies to an apprentice are legitimate tax deductions.
If the apprentice is enrolled in a qualified apprenticeship program that meets certain criteria, such as being registered with the Department of Labor or state agency, a tax credit might be available to reduce the operation’s tax bill.
A key question is whether the education-related benefits paid by the
employer are deductible from the employer’s business taxes and, probably even more important, whether the benefits are taxable to the employee.
Providing educational assistance such as tuition reimbursements to both new hires and current employees is another often economical option. Educational assistance can be tax-free as a working condition fringe benefit if it’s for education that the employee could deduct as a business expense had they paid for it themselves.
For employers, the amount paid or reimbursed for an employee’s education expenses is a tax-deductible business expense. As an added bonus, if the educational expenses qualify, employees may be able to exclude the payment or reimbursement from their gross income as a working condition fringe benefit.
The drawbacks to tuition reimbursements are that they often require the employer to have a written plan, and the benefits must be nondiscriminatory. In other words,
the pressure cleaning business must ensure that owners, shareholders, or highly compensated employees aren’t favored. It also only covers payments made before January 1, 2026, unless extended by future legislation.
MAKING IT A PLAN
Tax-free educational assistance benefits under the tax law’s Section 127, federal Educational Assistance Program, include payments for tuition, fees, and similar expenses as well as books, supplies, and equipment. Unlike other education expense reimbursements or benefits, the payments do not have to be for work-related courses. Plans can be either for undergraduate or graduate-level courses.
Section 127 allows the pressure cleaning business to give each participating employee up to $5,250 in annual tax-free educational expense reimbursement. That amount is deductible by the employer and not taxable to the employee.
Under Section 127, the total amount that an employee can exclude from gross income for payments of principal or interest on qualified education loans and other educational assistance combined is $5,250 per calendar year. If an employee seeks reimbursement for expenses incurred, the expenses must be paid by the employee in the same calendar year for which reimbursement is made by the employer.
Qualified education loans may be incurred by the employee in prior calendar years and prior to employment, and payments of principal and interest may be made by the employer in a subsequent year.
But, the employing business can deduct the expense of operating a section 127 plan as a business expense without owing any federal payroll taxes.
The IRS has provided a form that can be adopted by any employer: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/ p5993.pdf.
SMARTER WORKERS = MORE PROFITS
Finding qualified job applicants and investing in employee education should be an important part of every pressure washing operation’s plans. With smarter workers, everyone benefits. The operation prospers with smarter, better-trained employees— and a tax deduction when the business foots the bill for employee education or training costs.
Naturally, the deductions are limited. The cost of attending workshops, conferences, and trade shows, and other expenses that help employees expand their knowledge of subjects directly related to the pressure-washing operation are also tax deductible.
After ensuring the operation can afford the path chosen for better qualified job applicants and a smarter work force seeking government and non-government programs, tax deductions and unique write-offs abound. Natu-rally, seeking direction from knowledgeable professionals can help CT
ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES AND REGULATIONS
by Diane M. Calabrese
Adopt eco-friendly practices and regulatory compliance will take care of itself, true? True, sometimes. But even an eco-friendly approach can run counter to the rules set by federal, state, or local authorities. Know what the expectations are in the jurisdiction where work is being done. While it is complicated, to be sure, it is also doable; and everyone has a role to play.
“With all the customers that come to us for help, I always try to educate them about existing environmental regulations,” says Aaron Auger, water
treatment/dealer division manager at Mi-T-M Corporation in Peosta, IA. “By doing so we are working together toward a solution that will address their issues as well as getting them to comply with any environmental concerns they may have.”
The variables are many and must be considered as a matter of routine.
“No two projects are ever the same, but we can lean on years of experience to give a customer the best solution to any environmental issue they may have,” says Auger.
In one sense we should be grounded in meeting environmental
regulations, which are not new. But even the best efforts to comply can pose some difficulties.
“Most environmental laws have been around for over 50 years,” says Auger. “However, it’s often hit or miss as to how those laws are enforced.”
Auger’s company works with clients to develop custom solutions. And those solutions aim to ensure that regulatory requirements have been met.
“Most projects that come our way are people who are looking to either protect their property investment or get ahead of compliance laws before they have an issue,” explains Auger.
“I’ve been involved in a lot of projects over the years where someone is going to sell a business only to find out they must clean up a section of their property where they may have ignored and contaminated an area. If noticed, this is a significant cost to the property owner and one that will likely be uncovered prior to a piece of property being sold.”
Melding eco-friendly and businessfriendly while meeting regulations ultimately saves everyone time and money, and it can be done. “It all comes down to doing the right thing,” says Auger. “We all know the difference
between what’s right and what’s wrong, which brings me back to my point about educating the customer.”
Why put the customer at the center? “By first addressing their issues and then presenting a solution to them, we are working toward a common goal,” explains Auger.
“I’m fortunate enough to work with a very educated staff here at Mi-T-M, from our engineers to marketing to management who allow us to think outside of the box to offer solutions to unique projects all over the country,” says Auger. “We have worked on some interesting applications during my 25
years of doing this and welcome all challenges that are presented to us.”
DESIGNED ECO-FRIENDLY
The monikers “eco-friendly” and “green” convey slightly different ideas. Practices friendly to the environment strive to do more with less through reduction in use of resources as well as reuse and recycling of materials of all sorts.
Green practices incorporate natural methods in efforts to do things like capture and purify stormwater, prevent runoff, and separate contaminants from water. A rain garden, which
captures and slows the movement of rainwater so some of the precipitation can percolate through the soil, is green.
A rain garden is also eco-friendly because water that descends through it to ground water spaces has done so without rushing across streets laden with oil residues. Capturing wastewater from power washing is ecofriendly, but it’s not precisely green.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA.gov) encourages “green” to be part of the thinking in any designbuild project. Moreover, it advises that a comprehensive project should include attention to maintenance.
By thinking about maintenance at the inception of infrastructure or any system, builders can evaluate what the most environmentally friendly maintenance method will be. For instance, wastewater sewers would be built into all parking garages, cityscape
plazas, etc. The simple things would not be forgotten or ignored.
Planning for maintenance is an essential component of green infrastructure. The EPA document “Operation and Maintenance Considerations for Green Infrastructure,” which is available at the agency’s website, provides tips on how to develop a stormwater management system that meets legal standards and can feasibly be maintained. Stormwater is the focus of the document just cited, but it can be used as a starting point for how to think about any environmental issue, such as disposal of wastewater from cleaning.
The G3 [Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns] program at EPA emphasizes integrated planning, design and build approaches, and operation and maintenance. A G3 library allows anyone to learn more
about projects across the country that make environmental-friendliness part of their scope.
Competition for resources is as old as human civilization. Which resource has brought the most contentious disagreements? Water.
Disputes over water rights for cattle and irrigation and power plants have been serious and still are. They have also served as the plotlines for novels and movies. Scale up to the entire world, and it’s possible to argue that access to an abundant and steady supply of freshwater could do more to promote harmony among people than any other immediate change on the global scene.
Without a reliable supply of potable water, communities cannot function or farm. Without navigable waterways, commerce becomes more costly and difficult. The list is a long one. And it now includes the thirst for water from larger and larger data centers, as well as the coming proliferation of small nuclear reactors to power centers.
So great is the need for rational choices about how water is used and how it cycles through communities and across the Earth that it now receives intense focus from many groups. One such group is the WateReuse Association ( Watereuse.org ) headquartered in Alexandria, VA.
As we write in mid-August, there is pending legislation (H.R. 2940, Advancing Water Reuse Act) in the hands of the House Ways and Means Committee, which will, if it succeeds, provide tax credits for industrial facilities as they succeed at reusing water on site. (H.R. 2940 includes other elements as well.)
Water reclamation and water reuse on site has a solid foundation in our industry. Attentiveness to minimizing use of water and accelerating the return of freshwater to the surface waters of the world puts our industry ahead of many others.
RETHINK
To reduce, reuse, and recycle, we could add a fourth “R.” Rethink.
As eco-friendly practices and regulations meet, one facet tends to be either ignored or overlooked. That facet is longevity (durability).
The basic three Rs regarding stewardship of the environment are good, but building for longevity is better. Build not only with maintenance in mind, but build components, tools, and structures to last.
Accumulating failed seals or used filters might seem to be insignificant
matters, yet the discards are indicators of how many manufactured items go quickly to waste. Longer service for tools and structures cuts back the fuel and water needed for new manufacturing. Regulations help nudge everyone to do their best. But are we really doing our best in the creative solutions category of longevity? It’s something we should think about more.
Meanwhile, the basics must never be neglected. Organizations such as
PWNA and UAMCC keep their members up to date on the little things that add up to eco-friendly approaches. And many institutions that contract with members of our industry include well-thought-out instructions that have broad application.
For example, the University of North Carolina offers a document titled “Pollution Prevention During Pressure Washing” (https://ehs.unc. edu/topics/stormwater/pollutionprevention/pressure-washing/) that’s a model of brevity and information. It stresses starting with the least environmentally impactful method.
Contractors know the progression. Water could be used to push aside debris before washing but using a sweeper or broom conserves water.
Chemicals can be added to water to enhance cleaning. But by testing the surface first, a contractor might learn that water pressure and flow alone will get the job done.
Drain protection, water containment, and wastewater collection are all expected to be part of the repertoire of a contract cleaner. So, too, is the ability of the contractor to identify unusual soiling—grease, motor oil, sediment from construction, etc.—and adopt a method to remove it that follows all environmental regulations.
As for how we are doing as a nation in environmental friendliness, let’s write only that we could do better. Regulations increase awareness and encourage best practices, but responsible individual action that’s consistent matters most.
On the good news side, The ASCE [American Society of Civil Engineers] issued its 2025 report card on the state of U.S. infrastructure, and no category received a grade below a D for the first time since 1998.
Unfortunately, the stormwater category received a D and the drinking water category a C-. The overall score for 18 categories is a C.
In truth, nothing takes care of itself. We each have a lot of friendly work to do. CT
ZONE 1
American Waterworks, Inc. 13250 Weidner St. Pacoima, CA 91331 818-252-0706
www.americanwaterworks.net
Custom trailer system sales & service.
Nor Cal Pressure Washer Equipment
250-G S. Maple Ave. S. San Francisco, CA 94080 (866) 554-6601
www.norcalpressurewash.com
Hydro Tek Sales & Service, Industrial/Commercial.
Pacific Bay Equipment 609 G Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 578-3925/fax (209) 578-3120 www.pacificbayequipment.com
SF Bay area: 28301 Industrial Blvd. Hayward, CA 94545
ZONE 4
Pressure Systems, Inc.
1646 E. Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 253-9579
www.pressuresystemsinc.com
Experience Makes a Difference. Working With Water & Finding Solutions Since 1965.
Superior Cleaning Equipment
4422 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-257-1357 sceclean.com
ZONE 5
American Cleaning Systems 5261 W. 42nd St. Odessa, TX 79764 (800) 205-7797
www.amcleaning.net
Pressure Washers, Soaps, Degreasers, Hot Shot
Alklean Industries, Inc. 2111 Catalina Dr. Pasadena, TX 77503 (281) 479-5966 www.alklean.com
Hotsy, Mi-T-M, Hydro Tek, Alkota, KEW, Alto, plus many more. POWERWASH.COM 2313 Cold Springs Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76106 (800) 433-2113 www.Powerwash.com
Pressure Washer Sales & Service, Parts, Chemicals. River City Pressure Cleaning Equipment 7306 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78219
