by Dean Dean

BLEACH TANK TRANSFER

BLEACH TANK TRANSFER

We have been selling quite a few Kingslinger Soft Wash Systems recently as peak season is approaching.  One of our viewers who recently got the Kingslinger was asking questions about BLEACH TANK TRANSFER methods.  In other words, what are some of the ways to move stored bleach on to a tank on your truck?  So in this video, I go over several options you could use.  In fact, I go over some of the methods we have used in the past as well as what we are doing presently.  We hope this BLEACH TANK TRANSFER video post will help new guys in the pressure washing business.

USING YOUR SYSTEM

You may have a 12 volt pump or an air diaphragm or numerous other systems to leverage.  As you long as it’s plumbed properly or you have separate hoses to use, this will work.  In detail in this BLEACH TANK TRANSFER video, I show all the hook ups and transfer paths.  We always use uniseals as well as pvc to add weight to hoses to keep them at the bottom of the the tanks.  If you also have soap in your tank, this will prevent suds because it eliminates any air gaps.  I have a separate pump to transfer bleach but again, you could use your own pump system for this.  A supplemental hose kit would be ideal to use with the Kingslinger.  Details on this start at about 4:00 into the video.

RINSING IS VITAL

Regardless of the system and method you use, it’s vital to rinse your pump after any BLEACH TANK TRANSFER method.  I will put a little bit of water into the bleach tank I’m transferring to, but then let the water run out onto the ground.  I do that for about five minutes or so.  There are more methods, strategies, tips and issues that I cover in detail in this BLEACH TANK TRANSFER video.  So be sure and watch the entire video.  Also, don’t hesitate to let us know if you need our website services.

 

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Best Power Wash Trailer

BEST POWER WASH TRAILER

Doug Rucker Store features the BEST POWER WASH TRAILER for your business in this video.  While we are in the Houston, Texas area, we work with customers throughout the country on custom rig builds.  This particular build is for a local customer from Katy, Texas.  With the exception of the two tanks, all equipment on this build is from the Doug Rucker Store.  We provide a step by step walk through in this BEST POWER WASH TRAILER video.

POWER WASH EQUIPMENT

First, this trailer has an 8 GPM cold water pressure washer.  Next, you will see three Kings Hose Reels with a Kings Stack Kit.  For soft washing, he went with the extremely light weight and portable SOFT E electric soft wash system.  The Soft E is a 12 volt five gallon per minute machine.  He did a great job painting the floor of this trailer and securing all of the equipment himself.  He then brought it back to us to finish the trailer by plumbing the entire system.  There is something very important I explain at 3:00 into the BEST POWER WASH TRAILER video.  It is great advice for those who are just starting out in the pressure washing business.  This trailer also includes the fierce jet pressure hose as well as the flexilla garden hose.

SURFACE CLEANER

Last but not least, he went with the 24 inch Steel Eagle surface cleaner.  This is especially great unit for doing to commercial work.  Right at 6:00 into the video, Chris actually arrives to pick up his trailer.  For additional training for your pressure washing business, check out our events page and take advantage of monthly hands on training.  My passion is helping pressure washing business owners develop their skills and grow their business.  With over thirty years of experience in this industry, I look forward to helping you any way that I can.  Be sure and leave a comment if you have any questions about this BEST POWER WASH TRAILER video post.

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Building a Power Wash Trailer

BUILDING A POWER WASH TRAILER

We are always glad to help pressure washing business owners when Building A Power Wash Trailer.  In fact, we we work closely on this with owners from all over the United States.  Whether it’s a truck, van, or trailer, we build open air and enclosed rigs.  In this example, we are building a power wash trailer for a father son team from Lafayette, Louisiana.  This video provides customer testimony regarding the exceptional service and prompt communication we provide.  We even provide training to ensure you know how to use all the equipment effectively and efficiently.  They even won some homemade cookies!  (But the gift box is not included! :). We appreciate their business and provide a full walk around and equipment breakdown in this video.

TRAILER SPECIFICATIONS

This 20 foot trailer was brought to us and starts with an 8 GPM Largo Hot Water Pressure Washer.  It also includes an 8 GPM Largo cold water pressure washer.  Both of these machines rely upon the Honda GX 690.  He uses two large square tanks for water with the banjo valve for fast and easy draining.  He also has a smaller tank to use for degreasers but plans to switch that out to a larger tank.  There are some other plumbing items I cover in detail in this video so be sure and watch it in its entirety.

TRAILER BUILD HOSES

The hoses on this set up are one flexilla garden hose and two fierce jet pressure hoses.  These hoses stack nicely on the King’s Reel stack kit.  There is an additional 18 inch soft wash reel with a Soft Jet Soft Wash Hose which connects to the SOFT E.  The Soft E is the electric version of the Kingslinger Soft Wash System.  This is a light weight, portable system that requires very little footprint.  For additional pressure washing business supplies, check out Doug’s Link Deals on my school website.    If you ever need help BUILDING A POWER WASH TRAILER, don’t hesitate to let us know.

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SOFT WASH PLUMBING

SOFT WASH PLUMBING

This SOFT WASH PLUMBING video post is a follow up to an earlier post.  In the earlier post, I feature an introduction to the SOFT E electric soft wash system.  This is simply an electric version of the Kingslinger, which relies upon a gasoline compressor.  But in this video post, we focus on the SOFT WASH PLUMBING aspect of the SOFT E.  It is a fairly simple set up, so be sure and let me know if you have any questions in the comments section below.

TWO VALVES

There are two valves on this system.  One is for water, the other is for bleach.  If you are batch mixing, you could plumb both valves to one tank.  I have a ball valve set up for my bleach hose, and in this video I have two tanks set up.  After showing how to hook up the hose at the 2:00 time stamp, I also detail the tank end of the hose with PVC for added weight.  The banjo cam lock makes SOFT WASH PLUMBING hassle free as well.

PRIME THE SYSTEM

This is an important step to not overlook when using the SOFT E.  You will want to turn on power to the pump before before turning the valves to allow water and bleach to flow.  It’s best to prime one valve at a time for the best SOFT WASH PLUMBING results.  While you will need to order the hoses from us when purchasing the SOFT E, you’ll need to pick up PVC materials from Home Depot or similar store.  At the 6:30 mark, I also go over important factors to consider relating to venting your bleach tanks.  The entire video is over 20 minutes long, but contains other vital tips and tricks for SOFT WASH PLUMBING.  Be sure and stay up to date on all the training events that you can take advantage of to help grow your pressure washing business.

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Pressure Washing Water Reclamation

Pressure Washing Water Reclamation

Pressure Washing Water Reclamation is an important discipline in our exterior cleaning industry.  The BatGuard Pro T System is the best way to accomplish this through on site ground water filtration.  All exterior cleaning contractors must take responsibility for their wash water for residential and commercial property cleaning.  Perhaps you have heard or seen the letters “AHJ” which stands for AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION.  In our industry, this usually means there are either city or county code enforcement agencies ensuring environmental protection.  They have BMPs or Best Management Practice guidelines exterior cleaning contractors should comply with.

RECLAMATION PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

For any pressure washing water reclamation strategy, pre cleaning is vital.  Make sure the entire area is well swept to eliminate as much debris as possible before you start cleaning.  This keeps the BatGuard Pro T system operating a maximum potential.  This system consists of a flexible 10 foot long boom which allows for various configuration set ups.  It is specifically designed to filter out heavy metals, suspended solids, odors and more.  Plus, it is extremely cost effective as it allows up to 200 cleanings before replacing.  It comes with test strips and a sliver reflective marker to enhance visibility at night.  And we always place a large cone in the middle of the drain grate for protection and greater visibility.

RINSING and STORAGE

Properly rinsing and storing the BatGuard Pro T pressure washing water reclamation system helps to increase longevity.  Store it dry in the bucket it comes in, and it’ll be ready to use again on the next job site.  If you have any questions about this product, please don’t hesitate to reach out.  You can email info@DougRuckerStore.com or call or text 281-612-1223.  You can also learn more about it on the product page of the Doug Rucker Store website.  For additional training opportunities, keep an eye on my Pressure Washing School EVENTS.

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ELECTRIC SOFT WASH

ELECTRIC SOFT WASH

The new ELECTRIC SOFT WASH system is much like the Kingslinger.  It the response to many requests for something like a Kingslinger but with a 12 volt power supply rather than gasoline compressor.  This unit is light weight, portable and easy to move around.  It doesn’t take up much room, and allows them to clean a roof or house as needed.  So we are glad to introduce what we are calling THE SOFT E.  This stands for The Soft Electric.  This electric soft wash system comes with a Remco 7 GPM 100 PSI 12 volt pump.  With the Kingslinger and the Soft E, you have two system for two rigs.  But you can easily take both systems to one job as necessary.

EASY HOOK UPS

This ELECTRIC SOFT WASH system is easy to hook up to tanks.  I discuss this in detail with pictures at the 3:30 time stamp in this video.  You can batch mix, or you can plumb it to tanks with uniseals.  It is an extremely flexible system which can be portable or mounted permanently, depending on your needs and desires.  Just make sure you make provision to vent any bleach fumes in hoses.  Another great feature is that it can easily be stored when not in use such as during winter time.  It’s also great for spraying our proprietary cleaning solutions such as RAP, Dougie Fresh, or Kings Kling.  You can even use it to transfer bleach from one tank to another.  You will find a separate follow up video for installing and plumbing instructions.

OTHER TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

I just want to remind everyone of all the training opportunities available through my online education portal at my PRESSURE WASHING SCHOOL website.  You will find my online video school, as well as various training events.  In fact, I hold a monthly school in Kingwood, Texas with hands on training and classroom instruction.

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PRESSURE WASHER MAINTENANCE

PRESSURE WASHER MAINTENANCE

This PRESSURE WASHER MAINTENANCE video post deals with water inlet issues.  If you ever experience a pulsating hose or not enough water coming through, the water inlet should be the first thing to check.  There could be a clog or an air leak there.  The water inlet usually has six check valves which require a breaker bar and the right size socket.  Be very careful because these valves are made of brass, and as soft and therefore easy to strip.  I do not recommend using any sort of impact power tool for this.  At 3:55 of this PRESSURE WASHER MAINTENANCE video, you’ll see the open valve and o-ring.

CHECK VALVE

Using needle nose pliers, I am able to gently remove the check valve.  There is also another o-ring deep down below where the check valve sits.  You can usually look closely down through there with a flashlight. (see time stamp 9:45)  But generally, the issues are never with the o-rings but with the check valves.  I do provide instructions for replacing the o-rings if that is something you would prefer to do.  You will need a dental pick set for this part of pressure washer maintenance repairs.  But the main issue is checking out the small spring inside the check valve.  You want to make sure the spring is completely free of any dust, dirt, or debris and that the spring is not broken.  Again, there are six check valves so it’s important to examine all six check valves carefully.  Of course, always check and replace all fittings  regularly.  It’s important to keep all fittings clean and well maintained.

OTHER PROBLEM AREAS

There may be other problem areas to check when dealing with pressure washer maintenance issues.  There are various tanks to check in addition to checking the filter at the water inlet.  Check the oil of course, and make sure it’s not milky or that water is getting in.  And we always recommend using HIGH PERFORMANCE LUBRICANTS for our trucks and all equipment. If you are new to the industry, I invite you to check out my online video school for extensive training that will drastically cut your learning curve.

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REMOVING OXIDATION

REMOVING OXIDATION

Recently, several people sent emails and text messages asking questions about REMOVING OXIDATION.  Oxidation occurs on various surfaces where the paint or coating has failed due to time as well as UV rays from the sun.  Paint quality is another contributing factor.  In order to text for oxidation, rub your finger lightly along the surface and see if your finger picks up color.  There will be a light, chalky substance on your finger.  Avoid applying a lot of pressure when you test for oxidation so that a large, deep smudge is not left behind.  This is an important first step in removing oxidation, which I demonstrate on a painted, metal surface.

CUSTOMER COMMUNICATIONS

If the test confirms oxidation, you will need to set customer expectations.  You should let your customer know both in writing and verbally that oxidation is present on the surface.  Let them know that while you can remove organic and biological stains, it may end up looking inconsistent or have splotches.  Make sure they know the cause of this is not your cleaning process or products, but the presence of oxidation.  This is common on vinyl siding, metal garage doors, painted stucco and other surfaces.

NO PRESSURE REMOVING OXIDATION

If your answer to REMOVING OXIDATION is pressure washing, you’re going to end up making it look worse.  At 2:19 in this video, you’ll see an example of this “striping” result.”  In this case, some of the oxidation has been removed while some of it has been left behind.  So make sure to never use pressure when the job calls for removing oxidation.  We use a soft washing approach as well as our RAP DEGREASER cleaner surfactant.

CLEANING DEMONSTRATION

At 3:30 in the video, I provide a cleaning demonstration for REMOVING OXIDATION using RAP.  There is nothing harmful in this product and we use a very light brushing stroke to get an even penetration to the surface.  Here is the BRUSH WE USE.  I am using a spray bottle for demonstrating a small section.  But for the larger wall, I would normally use our KINGSLINGER SOFT WASH SYSTEM to apply the mix.  Depending on the area of space you are cleaning, a pump up sprayer may also be a very good option for you to use.  For our removing oxidation services, we also provide a free estimate and charge more specifically for this service because of the increase in time it takes to accomplish this successfully.  It’s important to communicate this clearly to customers and answer any questions they may have about removing oxidation.

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LISTENING TO CUSTOMERS

LISTENTING TO CUSTOMERS

Listening to Customers is one of the most important skills a small business owner must master, and continually build upon.  This is something that I am very passionate about have worked very hard at throughout my life.  And whether its in your personal relationships or professional relationships, the greatest way to add values to others is through good listening skills.  Being a good listener very simply and bluntly means there are times when you just need to shut up and listen.  I heard an old saying a long time again that has stuck with me through the years.  “The person who listens the most wins!”  Conversely, the person who talks the most loses.

 

CUSTOMER LISTENING SKILLS

Listening to customers means making sure you establish consistent eye contact.  While we have a tendency to look down or off in different directions when customers are speaking, this is a turn off to them.  It’s important to train your eyes to remain locked with theirs as they communicate their needs and express their concerns and issues.  It’s always great to briefly repeat back and summarize what they have shared with you.  Show them that you understand whatever it is or was that frustrates them, and then understand precisely what they expect in terms of desired outcomes.

THE BIBLE AND LISTENING

I’m not a Bible scholar or anything, but I do read it and practice it as best as I can.  And the Bible is filled with many verses about the importance of being a good listener.  One of those verses is Philippians 2:4 which says this.  “Look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”  Listening to customers effectively and successfully means you are literally looking our for their interests, not just yours.  Remember that we are in the service business which means we are here to “serve” our customers.  Always strive to listen more, speak less, ask questions and avoid assumptions.  As you continue to build and grow your pressure washing business, let us know if you need website services.

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PRESSURE WASHING WEBSITE VIDEO

PRESSURE WASHING WEBSITE VIDEO

How is your PRESSURE WASHING WEBSITE VIDEO performing?  If you own a pressure washing business, you know how important is to have an effective website.  At Doug Rucker Store, we have been offering website services for years and enjoy working with fellow contractors on this.  We build new websites from scratch, but we can also provide a complete overhaul and upgrade to existing websites that are not producing the kind of results you need.  In addition, we also provide website service for painting services, apartment complexes and other small businesses.  We build and host websites and would welcome the opportunity to help your business grow and succeed in this crucial area.

WEBSITE FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Our PRESSURE WASHING WEBSITE service begins with helping every person we work with clearly understand how the process works.  That’s what this video is all about.  All of our website builds are responsive design, which means your website will adapt to look great and operate efficiently on any device.  The process begins with a step by step walk through of how you can purchase your domain.  We do not want to own your website, and you really don’t want anyone else to own your website.  You’re the owner of your business, and you’ll own your pressure washing website.  We also offer hosting service, and all of these details can be found in this video or on our website description product page.

WEBSITE COLLABORATION

Your input, ideas, and overall direction is very important as we build your pressure washing website.  So we use BASECAMP to manage the entire project start to finish for effective and clear communication.  You will be in direct communication online and through emails with my staff.  This includes myself, our website builder or backend manager, and the content writer.  This ensures prompt communication and keeps the entire staff on one page as the website takes shape.  In addition, we will provide brief training on how you can add content to your own pressure washing website.  It’s important to blog on a regular basis in order to increase traffic and maximize your S.E.O. results.  We will help you learn and develop this critical skill.  Be sure to watch the entire video for all the details concerning our website services.

Feel free to call or text me at 281-883-3630 or use our Contact Form if you need more info.

 

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