5-32
October 2012
••
If using a reclaim system, create a five-second dwell time before the vehicle exits
the bay to allow for water runoff to be collected.
••
Maximize wash and rinse cycle speeds based on manufacturer recommendations.
Self-Service Car Washes
For optimal self-service car wash efficiency, educate customers on how to efficiently
wash their vehicles using less water.
Retrofit Options
Water reclamation systems that treat wash and rinse water from previous wash cycles
for use during the next vehicle wash offer the greatest potential water savings for
vehicle wash systems (see Figure 5-4 for an example of a vehicle wash with a water
reclamation system). The degree of water treatment needed depends upon which
vehicle washing steps use the reclaimed water. At a minimum, water reclaim systems
should separate grit, oil, and grease from wash water. This level of water treatment is
enough to use reclaimed water during the rocker/undercarriage wash stage. Addi-
tional treatment, such as oxidation, filtration, membrane filtration, and deionization,
might be necessary for use of reclaimed water during additional vehicle-washing
steps. Table 5-4 outlines the recommended level of water treatment for reclaimed
water use during each phase.
82
Figure 5-4. VehicleWashWater Reclamation System
5.5
Vehicle Washing
82
Created from analyzing data in: Brown, Chris,
op. cit.
,
Page 29.
Filtration
ReuseWater Supply for Select Stages
WashWater
ReclaimedWater
Freshwater Supply
Sediment Filters
