October 2012
5-31
Operation, Maintenance, and User Education
For optimal vehicle wash system efficiency, consider the following:
••
Conduct routine inspections for leaks and train appropriate custodial and clean-
ing personnel and users to identify and report leaks.
••
Ensure that the main shut-off valve is in proper working order.
••
If possible, use a friction washing component in all cycles, especially if water is
not reused.
••
Sweep all driveways and impervious surfaces instead of washing.
••
Minimize pump head pressures based on manufacturer recommendations.
Consider participating in the International Carwash Association™ (ICA) WaterSavers®
recognition program, which requires participants to meet certain water usage and
quality standards. For more information on the program, refer to the WaterSavers
website.
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For further vehicle washing efficiency, follow the operating and maintenance tips
specific to each type of vehicle wash system described below.
Conveyor Systems
For optimal conveyor system efficiency, consider the following:
••
Make sure conveyors are properly calibrated by timing spray nozzles to activate
only as the vehicle reaches the spray arch.
••
Align spray nozzles properly; they should be oriented parallel to the spray arch.
••
If using a water reclamation system, orient blowers so that water is sent back to
the water reclamation pit for reuse. Create a dwell time after the final rinse to al-
low for water to flow back into the reclamation pit.
••
Maximize conveyor speed based on manufacturer recommendations.
In-Bay Systems
For optimal in-bay system efficiency, consider the following:
••
Align spray nozzles properly; they should be oriented parallel to the spray arch.
••
If using sensors that detect when a vehicle is present, make sure they are prop-
erly calibrated. Sensors should activate the spray nozzles only as the vehicle
reaches the spray arch.
5.5
Vehicle Washing
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WaterSavers.®
