
As a car wash owner, you know that providing a top-quality wash for your customers is essential to your business. But did you know that the type of water you use can significantly affect the quality of the wash? You can unlock the secret to a spotless car wash by utilizing deionized water in your car wash operations.
Deionized water has become increasingly popular among car wash owners due to its numerous advantages. We’ll explore five of those advantages in this article. First, though, let’s take a closer look at what deionized water is and how it differs from other forms of purified water, such as distilled water, which only have most impurities removed.
What Is Deionized Water vs. Regular Water?
Deionized water is a form of water that has been purified on a molecular level. This means that a team of interns has painstakingly gone through the water and picked out all the ions. Not! The process of deionization involves passing water through ion exchange resins to remove mineral ions, such as the following:
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Chloride
- Sulfate
The resins then exchange the ions for hydrogen and hydroxyl ions, leaving the water in its purest form.
The wonders of science!
On the other hand, regular water – also called tap water – contains various minerals, substances and dissolved solids that can affect its quality and performance in a car wash.
Some common elements found in regular water include calcium, magnesium and various trace minerals. These minerals can form scales or deposits on surfaces, negatively impacting the appearance and function of certain surfaces.
Deionized water provides a level of purity essential for a spotless, residue-free finish. So as a car wash owner, you should consider using it to deliver a high-quality wash experience that impresses and satisfies your customers.
How can you select the right deionized water system for a car wash? Make sure it has the following features:
- The ability to handle the cold water supply to your car wash
- A high-quality deionized water filter for a car wash
- Water softeners to reduce the water’s acidic level
You may also want to add towel drying to your wash service, to further enhance the spot-free finish.
Why Should You Use Deionized Water for Your Car Wash?
Using deionized water for your car wash system offers numerous benefits that can significantly improve your customers’ overall car wash experience. Let’s explore five of those advantages.
Doesn’t Leave Unsightly Water Spots
During a car wash, water spots appear on cars due to the minerals and dissolved solids in regular water. These substances can leave an unsightly residue on the vehicle’s surface.
Water spots can lead to customer complaints and decreased repeat visits.
So how can you combat those negative effects? Consider incorporating a spot-free rinse system into your car wash.
A spot-free rinse system effectively deionizes the source water to provide a high-quality finish and prevent water spotting on vehicles. The system then uses that water in the final rinse stage of the car wash, right before the drying stage.
Your customers will be left with a pristine, streak-free finish that will keep them coming back for more.
Reduces Cleaning Time
Depending on the selected wash package, an automatic car wash typically takes 3-5 minutes per vehicle. Longer cleaning times can lead to customer frustration and decreased output, ultimately affecting your bottom line.
Deionized water helps reduce cleaning time by removing minerals that can cause stubborn stains and water spots. This allows for faster and more efficient cleaning. You’ll have happier customers and increased revenue for your car wash.
Cuts Down on Your Water Usage
Water is used in many parts of a car wash, from the cleaning mixture in the foam cannons to the rinsing stage. The average automatic car wash uses between 15 to 85 gallons per vehicle (without water recycling), depending on the equipment and wash package. Unnecessary water usage can lead to increased costs and environmental concerns.
Using deionized water can reduce water usage by making the cleaning process more efficient.
How does reduced water usage benefit your business? Some ways include the following:
- Lower operating costs
- Improved environmental sustainability
- Better compliance with local water regulations
- Enhanced public image for your car wash
Doesn’t Leave Strong Chemical Scents
Strong chemical scents are common issues when using tap or distilled water, as the water may contain bacteria or chemicals. This can cause customer dissatisfaction, resulting in negative reviews, complaints and reduced repeat business.
Think about your Mother in Law and how sensitive she is to any smells. Strong chemical scents may deter customers who are sensitive to odors or have allergies.
Since deionized water is free of impurities, it can reduce the risk of leaving strong chemical scents. So using a car wash deionized water system can lead to:
- Enhanced customer satisfaction
- Fewer complaints and damage claims
- Higher customer retention rates
- Improved reputation for your car wash
Easily Preps Car for Waxing
Waxing helps protect a vehicle’s paint and enhances its appearance. When you don’t prep the car for waxing, it can cause uneven coverage or streaks.
A botched waxing job can lead to customer dissatisfaction, complaints, a damaged reputation and liability issues.
Properly preparing cars for the wax stage is crucial to make sure the wax adheres effectively and delivers the desired results.
Deionized water can easily prepare a car for waxing by removing minerals and impurities that could interfere with the wax application. Other benefits include the following:
- Improved wax performance and longevity
- Enhanced vehicle shine and appearance
- Increased customer satisfaction
- Higher revenue from premium wash packages
Find the Best Products for a Spotless Car Wash System
Using deionized water in your car wash system can significantly improve the quality of your washes, reduce cleaning times, minimize water usage and enhance the overall customer experience. Investing in a deionized water system for a car wash can set you apart from the competition and contribute to long-term business success.
If you’re looking for the best products for a spotless car wash system, consider partnering with National Carwash Solutions. As the largest end-to-end provider of everything you need for a car wash, we have the expertise and resources to help you implement a deionized water system and elevate your car wash business. Contact us today to take the first step toward a cleaner, more efficient car wash operation.