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The process of self service car wash maintenance
should begin I believe with the equipment distributor/ supplier helping
the new operator gain a thorough knowledge of the facility and equipment
as a whole. This instruction time, in the future, will prove to be time
well spent. Take time to ask specific questions on not just what a component
is but also how it works. A basic understanding of water quality, various
pumping methods, and electrical systems will help you better understand
the importance of regular maintenance.
The high and low pressure pumping systems, water softeners,
spot free, rinse systems, vacuums, venders and changers are for the
most part the same regardless of the manufacturer. The program we offer
here is simply a general overview and you may want to discuss any particular
items not covered with you supplier.
The order in which these tasks are performed is up
to you and often dictated by the activity at the wash.
SECURITY
The car wash should be as "people proof" as possible and
reflect the presence of security
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Equipment room should be fitted with an audible
entry alarm system where applicable.
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Equipment room door(s) should have an automatic
lock knob that can be set to open with a key only.
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Collect money during off-hours, typically 8-10
AM. Alternate times of day for pick up. We us a 5 gallon bucket
with rag over the coins to give the appearance of picking up trash.
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Empty no more than two bays at a time and deposit
money in equipment room. Do not invite trouble by showing large
amounts of cash.
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Do not hesitate to call 911 if any suspicious
activity occurs
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Post phone numbers of local police and fire departments along
with key manufactures service numbers in an easily accessible
location in the equipment room.
DAILY MAINTANANCE
IN BAY
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Walk through all bays and observe; look for any
broken or missing items. Repair or replace if required
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Observe weep system for proper flow (winter)
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Clean hoses and wands of any grease, oil or dirt.
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Insert coins in each meter and test all functions
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Wash down bay walls and floors
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Check lighting fixtures for proper operation
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Empty and rinse trash cans in bays and vacuum
areas
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Check all overhead doors and door rollers for
proper smooth operation and lubricate if required
LOT MAINTENANCE
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Clean and sweep car wash lot if needed
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Check each vacuum for coin operation and condition
of hoses, tools and suction.
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Clean vacuum filters and empty debris from canister.
The use of protective gloves is recommended
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Check, fill, and test shampoo and fragrance machine
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Clean all surface areas on vacuums and venders
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Fill venders and empty coins. Check coin vs.
product count
EQUIPMENT ROOM
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Check salt level in brine tank
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Check water softness and temperature
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Check TDS of Spot Free Water
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Check pH of all detergents
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Check for any water or air leaks. Repair immediately
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Drain air compressor tank and filter
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Check all belts for proper tension ( shut off
power to motors before this procedure)
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Check parts inventory and reorder as required
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Check pressures on all pumping systems while
systems operate (high and low pressure and Spot free)
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Fill bill changers and empty of bills. Check
bills received against coin count.
WEEKLY
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Check all fluid levels in pumps and compressor
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Check prefilters and strainers. Clean or replace
as required
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Change pump and compressor fluids as required
by manufacturer
In colder weather climates check your freeze prevention
system long before the temperature drops. The thermostat, solenoids
and check valves should all be in top operating condition. A failure
of any of these components could cause your entire wash to shut down
until repairs are made. Floor deicing system, while seldom a problem,
should be run and fluid levels and pressures checked long before cold
weather hits.
There are a number of reasons to practice good maintenance
on your wash that are sometimes overlooked. A wash that appears secure,
is well lit and has good visibility is inviting to customers. With 50-60%
of the self service clientele being female this atmosphere is a must
to assure you keep that business. Many operators retain an employee
on the premises during peak hours to assist customers, promote sales
and keep a smooth traffic flow throughout the wash.
The majority of the damage, cut hoses, broken wands
and brushes is not malicious but rather a response by someone who attempted
to use a vacuum or bay equipment that was not operating properly. All
of us have expressed this in one way or another when we have been robbed
by the corner pop or candy machine. Take time to talk to your customers
and get their feelings on your wash. Many times we don’t see the
obvious that the customers do see.
Advertise! This is just as important to the growth
of your business as any other maintenance aspect and will help maintain
a healthy sense of community awareness. Local newspaper and yellow page
ads in addition to promotional items like token sales and charity washes
will add greatly to the overall success of your business.
Self service car wash maintenance is no different than
maintaining any other business. It’s repetitive, sometimes boring
work, but it has its’ rewards. An attractive, well lit, clean facility
invites business, whether you’re selling hot dogs or car washes.
The amount of time you spend each day lends itself to preventing those
costly equipment failures that can close the doors and cost you money.
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