by Dean Dean

SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK

SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK

Check out this SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK video post.  Or you may also have a van or a trailer.  But I wanted to provide some basic spare parts that you need to have while you’re on the job site.  I’ll start with a QUICK CONNECT SET.  It comes with an option of male pipe thread or female pipe thread.  You never know when these quick connect fittings are going to fail.  So I recommend having 3-6 sets.  Remember that there are also two different size options which include 3/8 inch and 1/4 inch.  It’s also important to have packages of the o rings for these fittings.  And you will need a dental pick set for repairs.  Let your SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK check list begin with these important items.

 

SURFACE CLEANER NOZZLES

Surface Cleaner Nozzles are also vital to SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK.  These nozzles clog up very easily because they are so small.  I recommend replacing the nozzles while on the job, rather than taking the time to attempt repair.  Get a welder’s tip tool to remove grit and unclog surface cleaner nozzles.  Of course, whatever high pressure nozzles you use regularly, you will want to have spares for those as well.  We use and have spares for the entire JROD nozzle kit.  At the 9:00 time stamp, you’ll notice quite a bit of detail about all the nozzle SPARE PARTS FOR PRESSURE WASHING TRUCK.

OTHER ITEMS

Here are other items you’ll want to make sure you have.  Teflon tape and loxeal is important to have on hand for replacing and repairing any and all fittings.  Electrical tape will be needed for wiring repairs.  Hose clamps always come in handy, and a pressure gauge to test your machine.  If you are a big time downstreamer like myself, a few items are worth mentioning.  Our black plastic chemical strainer, spare downstream injectors and check valves will help prevent down time.  This is something that’s very important in our business.  Preventing down time saves you money and keeps you moving toward the next job!  Believe it or not, there are a few more important pieces so be sure and watch the entire video.  For those of you located in the southeast US, we’re bringing some incredible training opportunities to COCOA, FLORIDA!  We hope to see you there!

by Dean Dean

The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Your Pressure Washer

The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Your Pressure Washer

The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Your Pressure Washer is crucial to ensure it remains in good working condition during the winter months and beyond. Proper winterization helps protect the machine from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures and extended periods of inactivity. Here are some tips on how to winterize your pressure washer.

  1. Draining the Tank: Begin by draining the water from the buffer tank. This step is essential to prevent freezing, which can cause serious damage to the pump and other components.
  2. Blowing Out Plumbing and Hose Lines: Use compressed air, from an air compressor, you can blow out any remaining water from the plumbing, pump, and hose lines. This will help ensure that no water is left to freeze and potentially cause damage.
  3. Using Antifreeze: I prefer to run a solution of antifreeze through the system to provide protection against freezing. I prefer using a fully concentrated Anti Freeze. Some guys will use RV/Marine Anti Freeze or Non Concentrated Anti Freeze. But there are reports of machines still freezing using this. Be sure to run the anti freeze through the bypass hose as well. So you’ll need to turn your ball valve off, so that it goes into bypass. Once done, leave you ball valve in the open position.
  4. Cleaning Filters and Nozzles: This is also a good time to remove and clean the filters and nozzles to prevent any debris or mineral buildup that could affect the pressure washer’s performance when you get back to work.

MORE STEPS TO TAKE

  1. Protecting from Rodent Damage: If you have an open trailer or truck rig, inspect the pressure washer for any potential entry points for rodents and take measures to protect the machine from nesting or damage.
  2. Disconnecting the Battery: If your pressure washer is equipped with a battery, disconnect it to prevent drainage and potential damage during storage.
  3. Fuel tanks: For gas-powered pressure washers, it’s important to follow additional steps such as stabilizing the fuel. If you have a machine with a fuel shut off, I recommend while running the machine, with water coming out of your ball valve, turn the fuel supply off. This will drain the Carburetor of gas. Any excess gas in the tank should be treated with a fuel stabilizer.
  4. Cleaning Exposed Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the exterior of the pressure washer to remove any dirt, grime, or chemical residue that may have accumulated during use.
  5. Storing in a Dry Location: Find a dry and secure location to store your rig during the winter months, such as a garage or shed, to protect it from the elements.
  6. Following Manufacturer Recommendations: Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific winterization procedures and recommendations tailored to your pressure washer model.

By following The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Your Pressure Washer, you can help prolong its life.  In addition, you will ensure it’s ready for use when the warmer weather returns. Remember that proper maintenance and care are essential for keeping your pressure washer in optimal condition, especially during periods of extended storage.

In conclusion, winterizing your pressure washer is a proactive measure that can prevent costly repairs and downtime in the future. Whether you have a gas-powered or electric pressure washer, taking the time to properly winterize it will pay off in the long run by preserving its performance and functionality.  We hope The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Your Pressure Washer is helpful to your business.  For a video on this subject, click here.  For more training opportunities, check out The Pressure Washing School.

by Dean Dean

WATER FED POLE TDS

Water Fed Pole TDS

When using a water fed pole for window cleaning, it is important to know what the TDS is.  By this we mean the TDS of the water going into your Water Fed Pole.  Once the supply water from the house or building has gone through your filtration unit, you can then get another TDS reading. I call this reading the Water Fed Pole TDS.   If the supply water going into your filtration unit is real high, this will affect how long the resin in your filtration system will last.  How long the resin lasts determines how frequent you will need to change the resin. Once the TDS on your resin filter system reaches 9-10, you need to change the resin in it. This is when you will start noticing spotting of the windows.

What is TDS?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. This is basically all the stuff in the water that can affect the cleaning of windows using a water fed pole, as well as the taste, smell, and appearance of the supply water.  These dissolved solids come from a variety of places.  Old piping, fertilizers, salt run off from roads, and many other places will have an adverse affect on the TDS of the water supply.

How do I test the TDS?

There are a couple easy ways to test for TDS.  Most water fed pole systems will come with either a built in TDS meter, or a meter that is separate and can be added inline to your water fed pole hose, or use to test independently.  These are battery operated so you need to always make sure you have good strong battery in it to prevent misreadings of the TDS. There is also a site you can use to the TEST TDS of any area by zip code.  If the zip code does not come up with a reading, you can test yourself using a TDS meter and enter into your system.  It is important to note that the information on this site is only as good as the information it has been supplied with.  So, being able to test with your own meter on site is the best way.  At DougRuckerStore we sell a TDS METER if you need one.

How do I prevent frequent resin changes?

The best way is to know what the TDS of the water is coming out of the supply.  If its very high, you may need to consider using the old fashioned squeegee cleaning method.  There are other filtration systems you may want to consider to, dual stage filtration, RO filtration, and others.  Don’t waste water when cleaning.  Have a method to shut water off coming out of the brush when moving from window to window or anytime the brush is not touching the glass.

Are you starting a pressure washing business? Check out my Online Pressure Washing School that will help you drastically cut your learning curve. You can also get some great pressure washing tips and tricks at my YouTube Channel. As always, if you have any questions I can help you with, please use our CONTACT FORM.

by Dean Dean

Pressure Washing Wand Tips

Pressure Washing Wand Tips

When you purchase a pressure washing machine, it usually also comes with a gun.  The gun is usually hard attached to a wand or grip of some sort.  Sometimes you will find a need to remove the wand or lance and use something else like jrod nozzles.  This video provides clear instructions of the fittings you will need and the step by step installation instructions.  There is so much in this business that boils down to personal preference.  My preference has always been to use our pressure washing gun assembly.  This is simply because I like having that wand or lance for gripping and for other reasons.  The great thing about this pressure washing wand tips video is it shows you how to switch back and forth between the two.

ALUMINUM PIPE WANDS

At 8:00 into the video, I talk about the possibility of also using aluminum pipe wands.  These are very light weight and have their own fittings called “wand saver plug.”  You do need to be a little more careful with these because they do break easily.  These wands are available in various lengths from 24 to 59 inches.  This longer reach will help you reach higher places like gutters and things like that.  You could actually connect two of these wands for even longer distances.  Hopefully this pressure washing wand tips video will clear up some confusion and help save time on the job.  Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions about this video.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING

Be sure and stay up to date on all the training opportunities we provide both in person and online.  There are monthly training schools here in Houston for those looking to start a pressure washing business.  And we also have an online video school that is more self paced and on demand.

by Dean Dean

Pressure Wash Downstream

Pressure Wash Downstream

What is the difference between plug in/socket out versus plug out/socket in?  While I have several videos on Pressure Wash Down Stream basics, I did receive an email with questions about pressure washer configurations.  Some of the products on the store website provide a configuration option for you to choose from.  You can select either plug in/socket out or plug out/socket in.  This can be somewhat confusing, especially if you are new to the pressure washing service business.  So this Pressure Wash Downstream video will help clarify some things and answers questions you may have.

FLOW DIRECTION

This entire issue boils down to the direction that the water flows from your pressure washer machine.  On the water outlet from the machine, you will have either a socket fitting or a plug flitting.  Sometimes the socket is also called a coupler.  The way all of my machines are set up is “plug out.”  But most machines arrive from manufacturers with a “socket out” configuration.  We provide custom builds and this means you can choose your own personal preference for this option.  At the 2:50 time stamp, I provide an example of one of our store products on the website with this option.  At 4:30, you’ll see a very important but small arrow which indicates the flow direction of the water.  So understanding pressure wash downstream configuration really boils down to the direction the water flows.

PRESSURE WASH GUN

Then I also explain how this configuration option applies to a pressure washing gun.  At this point, I explain once again that his is all simply a matter of personal preference.  One of the main reasons I prefer the “plug out” option is I get as much better flow and spray pattern.  That is the case when I use a ball valve to downstream or rinse.  Another way to explain this is that whatever your water is coming “out” of, that is your outlet fitting.  Please don’t hesitate to put any questions you may have about this in the comments section.  And be sure and take advantage of all our training opportunities coming up in the near future.

by Dean Dean

DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO

DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO

This DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO focus is on how to go from bleach to water when you want to rinse.  Here are direct link to the downstream injector kit that is part of this video.  In addition, I talk about the various nozzle sizes and options and how they affect downstream flow.  One of the great features of this DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO is actual demonstration footage of various nozzles and their different spray patterns.  Understanding the two reasons why we call it downstream injector is vital.  First, it’s on the down side of the pump so no chemical is going through the pump.  Second, the injector puts chemical into the line and sends it down for spraying.  Be sure watch this entire video to get all the details.

SMALL ARROW

At the 2:00 time stamp in this DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO, take note of the arrow.  It’s a small arrow but it’s vitally important because it’s pointing in the direction the chemical will flow.  After applying the bleach, the next step is to rinse the surface.  In the old days, we would use the various color nozzle tips depending on application versus rinse.  We would use the black tip to apply the bleach, then use the red, yellow, or white tip to rinse.  The question I get often is how to rinse without having to change nozzles.  There are a couple of ways to do this which I explain at the 4:00 time stamp.

JRODS

But then a new nozzle option came along.  So the question now is how do I stop the flow of the bleach with JROD nozzles?  Two of the nozzles have larger holes like the black nozzle which lowers the PSI of the machine.  This is what allows the bleach to be injected into the flow of the water.  You can rinse with these two nozzles by switching the injection syphon tube from the bleach bucket to a water bucket.  Or you can rinse by using the other to JROD nozzles which lower the PSI of the machine.  If this video is helpful, please check out my online video school.  This is a great way to get the training you need to start and grow a successful pressure washing business.  Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment with any questions you might have about this DOWNSTREAM INJECTOR VIDEO.

by Dean Dean

PRESSURE WASHER TRUCK SKID

PRESSURE WASHER TRUCK SKID

This PRESSURE WASHER TRUCK SKID video post features two skids for sale.  Both skids are for long bed trucks.  A customer of ours sold his business and kept his trucks but not the equipment.  He is moving out of the area here locally and asked for my help in selling these two rigs.  They are both identical 8 foot skids.  There are two 4 GPM pressure washers.  This will provide the option for a two man crew.  As an example, one person can be cleaning a house while the other person is cleaning concrete.  Another option is to siamese connect these two units for a combined 8 GPM.  Be sure and watch the entire video for all the details on this PRESSURE WASHER TRUCK SKID.

SOFT WASH SYSTEM

There is also an enclosed battery bank for a 12 volt soft wash system with automatic charger.  Also there are two tanks with one being for 100 gallons and the other holding 200 gallons.  There are two hose reels.  One is for soft washing and the other is a pressure hose.  The 12 volt soft wash system has three valves.  One for water, one for bleach, and one for soap.  It has a 5 gpm Remco pump.  The skids are not able to be fork lifted.  But they are staged presently so that trucks can slide right in and load them up.

LADDER RACK

Both skids also have a ladder rack which was designed and fabricated so that ladders do not need to be tied down.  These are really great, functional and well designed skids that are ready to go!  The owner’s asking price is around $15,000 per skid.  You can contact us and we will put you in touch with the owner.  Email Info@DougRuckerStore.com or call or text 281-612-1223 for this pressure washer truck skid combo package.  Everything is in great condition because they are fairly new and not used much at all.  They are strong skids that will last a long time with storage compartments.

by Dean Dean

PRESSURE WASHING SCHOOL

 

PRESSURE WASHING SCHOOL

Doug Rucker’s Pressure Washing School provides a variety of opportunities for professional training.  His passion is helping new power wash startups learn the basics of how to provide exceptional exterior cleaning services.  Every month near Houston, Doug provides hands on training with his equipment as well as classroom training.  The remaining schedule for these monthly hands on training events in 2023 looks like this:  October 9-10, November 6-7, and December 4-5.  Check out this video to get a feel for what these monthly hands on trainings are like.  Once you have attended a monthly training event, you will have access to Doug for additional support.  You can look to him as a mentor or personal consultant whenever you need help.  He has well over 10 years of experience training others to succeed, grow, and expand their services and their business.

ONLINE VIDEO SCHOOL

For those unable to make the trip to Houston, consider Doug’s online video school.  With over 270 videos, you can be self paced with lifetime access to all videos.  It includes tests and a forum to connect and communicate with others in the business.  You’ll enjoy access to Doug for ongoing support and additional coaching.  And you will be able to drastically cut your learning curve and establish the confidence and ability to safely clean residential properties.  Plus, we will provide a digital listing of your business in our directory.  Doug Rucker’s Pressure Washing School is here to assist you in any and every way we possible can!

GET THE P.O.I.N.T.

The P.O.I.N.T. stands for PERSONAL ON-THE-JOB INDIVIDUAL NEXT-LEVEL TRAINING!  This means you could schedule a time for one on one training with Doug with a couple of options for you to choose from.  He can meet you on your job site and training you with your equipment.  Or, he could bring his equipment.  If you do not have a job site in mind, he will find an ideal spot for the P.O.I.N.T.

This is a great way for Doug to further refine your cleaning skills, and help you get better in weak areas.  His overall approach is to help you save time and energy while maintaining and preserving your equipment and supplies.  This will result in much higher profit margins for your business.  That’s what Doug Rucker’s PRESSURE WASHING SCHOOL is all about!  Check out the DOUG RUCKER STORE for all your equipment and cleaning supplies.

by Dean Dean

DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE

DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE

The next DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE in Humble, Texas is coming up November 2-3,2023.  The conference is for those who own and operate a small business in the home service sector.  We especially invite those who have been in business for 3 years or less.  But any and all are welcome to be part of this dynamic, motivational experience.  In those conference, we focus on best practices for those who own and operate a small business.  In addition to Doug Rucker, we welcome back once again guest speakers Jeffery Blackman and Von Cross.  In addition, Kelsey Elliot will speak about financial matters, and Nick Terry will speak from the perspective of a commercial property manager.

SPEAKER TOPICS

Here are some of the topics you can expect to hear about from our DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE speakers.

Commercial Sales – Working with and gaining new commercial clients.  What is it that commercial and HOA property managers are looking for when choosing vendors?

High End Residential Sales –  Lessons on getting and keeping large residential clients.

Money Matters- (with guest CPA speaker Kelsey Elliott) Taxes, Budgeting, Profit and Loss, Balance Statements, and much more

Pricing- A comprehensive session on how to price your services so you never have to ask “How do I price this?”

Building a Residual Based Income Business – Every business should be built on clients that have a need to continue using your services.  We will discuss and show you ways to build a residual based business.

Creating & Building Relationships with Clients –  The success of your small business will be based on your ability to build relationships with your clients.  Learn from our years of experience in working both residential and commercial clients on how to create and build relationships.

DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE LOCATION

The conference will be held at the Country Inn and Suites located in Humble TX with room rates at $79.00 per night.  For reservations call 281-446-4977 and ask for the Doug Rucker School rate.  The hotel also offers a shuttle to pick you up at the Bush Intercontinental (IAH) airport and bring you to the hotel, as well as transportation to local, (within a 5 mile radius), places around the hotel.  There are plenty of restaurants and even a mall very close to the hotel.

WIVES ATTEND FREE OF CHARGE

We encourage you to bring your wives as in most cases, they play a critical role in small business owner’s success.  You’ll hear a special speaker also address the role of wives. Wives can attend free but you need to register them as an additional attendee.

To register for the DIFFERENCE MAKERS CONFERENCE, please click here.

 

by Dean Dean

POWER WASH EDUCATION

POWER WASH EDUCATION

In this POWER WASH EDUCATION video post, you’ll from a student from SPAIN.  He flew 12 hours to learn and grow with our August 2023 hands on training event in Houston.  This is a monthly training opportunity that offers not only hands on training with equipment on the job site.  It also includes a day of classroom learning with QnA.  This is a different way of providing direct insight and information about what it’s like to be a part of my school.  Peter Harding first began his journey learning about this business through Doug Rucker’s YouTube channel.

 

EDUCATION ATTRACTION

There was one big attraction to Doug Rucker’s Pressure Washing School that attracting to him.  It was the idea that you could receive both training and equipment all under one roof through his school and his store.  The videos are easy to understand, and very clear.  It’s great because all of the training is directed toward those who are brand new to the industry.  Peter also enjoyed meeting and getting to know the group of guys that were also part of the August 2023 Power Wash Education school.

EQUIPMENT EDUCATION

The first day is all hands on equipment training and demonstrations.  Peter makes it clear this is invaluable because he has never even held this type of professional grade pressure washing business equipment.  He describes much of what taught as “nuggets of gold.”  The day went really quick, and for Peter, any more would have been too much to absorb.  He calls it “complete, full, and enjoyable.”  Soft washing and downstreaming with a dedicated pump is a big focus of this first day of hands on power wash education.

CLASSROOM EDUCATION

Day two takes place in the training center classroom.  The training modules include house washing, roof cleaning, concrete cleaning and property protection.  All of the training is also available to students through video access for continued reviewing and learning.  Doug will continue to be there for Peter once he is back in Spain to help him with continuing education.  Along with Peter, all of Doug’s students are encouraged to reach back out to him any time they have questions and might need additional assistance.  At 7:30 into the video, Peter also talks about how we work together to get the equipment he needs to start his business.  We are actually shipping his equipment to Spain!  Be sure and check out all the training opportunities you can take advantage of.  And remember for those who cannot make it out to Texas, we do have an online video school as well.