Pressure washing companies typically do not bring their own water to a job site, as using the customer’s water supply is more practical, cost-effective, and efficient. However, there are specific scenarios where companies may need to bring their own water. This comprehensive guide will delve into the technical details and industry standards surrounding the water usage practices of pressure washing companies.
Why Pressure Washing Companies Prefer to Use the Customer’s Water Supply
Safety and Efficiency
Transporting large quantities of water can be hazardous and inefficient. A typical 200-gallon water tank can weigh over 1,600 pounds when full, adding significant weight to the vehicle and trailer. This increased weight leads to higher fuel consumption, increased wear and tear on the vehicle, and ultimately, higher costs for the customer.
Cost-Effectiveness
Using the customer’s water supply eliminates the need for the company to transport water, reducing fuel costs and labor expenses. This cost-saving measure allows pressure washing companies to offer more competitive pricing to their clients.
Practicality
For most residential jobs, the amount of water required is relatively small, typically ranging from 4 to 8 gallons per minute (GPM) for a standard pressure washer. The customer’s water supply is usually sufficient to meet the demands of these projects, making it a practical and convenient option for the pressure washing company.
Industry Standard
It is an industry standard for pressure washing companies to use the customer’s water supply, especially for residential jobs. This practice is widely accepted and expected by customers, as it aligns with their expectations of a hassle-free and cost-effective service.
Scenarios Where Pressure Washing Companies Bring Their Own Water
While the majority of pressure washing companies prefer to use the customer’s water supply, there are specific situations where they may need to bring their own water:
Commercial Jobs
For commercial jobs or projects with limited water supplies, pressure washing companies may need to bring their own water to ensure they have enough to complete the task. Commercial properties, such as large buildings or industrial facilities, may not have sufficient water access or pressure to meet the demands of the pressure washing equipment.
Specific Regulations
In some areas, there may be specific water use regulations or restrictions that require pressure washing companies to bring their own water. This is particularly common in regions with water scarcity or drought conditions, where the use of the customer’s water supply may be limited or prohibited.
Large-Scale Projects
For larger projects that require high-flow pressure washing machines, the customer’s water supply may not be able to keep up with the water demand. In these cases, pressure washing companies may need to supplement the customer’s water with their own water tanks to maintain the necessary flow rate and pressure.
Technical Specifications
Water Flow Rate
A typical pressure washer used by pressure washing companies has a water flow rate of around 4-8 gallons per minute (GPM). However, larger machines or specialized equipment may require higher flow rates, ranging from 8 to 12 GPM or more.
Water Tank Capacity
Pressure washing companies may have water tanks ranging from 200 gallons to several hundred gallons, depending on the size of the machine and the job requirements. Larger water tanks allow companies to handle larger projects or work in areas with limited water access.
Fuel Costs
Transporting water can significantly increase fuel costs due to the added weight of the water. For example, a 200-gallon water tank filled with water can weigh over 1,600 pounds, which can significantly impact the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and operating costs.
Conclusion
In summary, while pressure washing companies may bring their own water in specific scenarios, the majority of them prefer to use the customer’s water supply due to safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness considerations. Understanding the industry standards and technical specifications surrounding water usage can help customers better appreciate the practices and decision-making processes of pressure washing companies.
References:
- Window Cleaner Community Forum. (2012, March 5). When pressure washing do you carry your own water or use customers? Retrieved from https://community.windowcleaner.com/t/when-pressure-washing-do-you-carry-your-own-water-or-use-customers/17135
- Reddit. (2022, November 20). Water. Use your own tank or customer’s water source? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/pressurewashing/comments/z0bb77/water_use_your_own_tank_or_customers_water_source/
- JD Powerwashing. Do Powerwashing Companies Use Your Water? Retrieved from https://jdpowerwashing.com/do-powerwashing-companies-use-your-water/
- Enhance Power Washing. (2021, January 18). Do Pressure Washing Companies Use Their Water? Retrieved from https://enhancepowerwashing.com/blog/f/do-pressure-washing-companies-use-their-water
- Dr. Powerwash. Do Power Washing Companies Bring Their Own Water to a Job? Retrieved from https://www.drpowerwashcharlottesville.com/pressure-washing-tips/do-power-washing-companies-bring-their-own-water-to-a-job