814jeffw

No, go with quick couplers,...apparently the person who you talked with has never done work in this field because there aren't any issues with quick couplers that would make screwing them together a better option. Jeff

I don't even know what a twist connector is? Unless you mean threaded, ha,ha. Quick connects hold up very well, and are the standard. What type of hose are you referring to? Jeff

I need some advice on downstreaming decks. I have never downstreamed before and would like to add this to my application methods. I don't like using the same tanks for different chemicals. I am out of room for another tank for deck cleaner (sodium percarbonate). I would appreciate some assistance in setting my machine up for downstreaming. I have a 4.6 GPM pump 3000 PSI. I am also using a dual lance that has a soap tip on it already. Running 200' hose. Injector recommendation and mix ratio would be so helpful. Jeff

Just wondering, has anyone ever tried putting a three way hose barb in the downstream line. The third barb would be exposed to air, and would maybe make a foamy spray because of the air induction? I noticed that when you remove the line from the bucket, it will spray foamier solution for a second or two after the chemical line is cleared of product,...figured it's the air. Jeff

I can't argue,...but I was under the impression that if a pump is rated at a certain GPM, it's rated, at maximum output. It would be a selling point if nothing else,...to be able to proclaim more flow. Try using a bucket and a watch. Maybe someone who knows will straighten it out for us. Jeff

The larger tips will not create more flow. If you have a 2.5 GPM machine,...that's all you're gonna get. Large tips only reduce the pressure. But, with that being said, if you're happy with what you're using,....just keep doing it!! Jeff

Although the more GPM the better, you will find a lot of guys using 4 GPM. But I would say 4 GPM is the bare minimum,... but is still enough. Surface cleaners also work better with more flow, especially the larger ones.(20 in. or bigger) GPM is more important than pressure, but nice to have a good blend. Jeff

Never heard of the ZS. The price for that Honda is a steal. I think they retail between $700-$800. Even with shipping considered it's a bargain. Hondas are great engines. I guess you mean putting the saved $200.00 TOWARDS the new quality 6 GPM pump. Because I doubt you're gonna get it at $200.00 alone. I'm not sure 13 hp. is enough to run 6 GPM. Jeff

Yea, lots of variables, 2 steps or 1,000 steps, distance, inside, outside, surroundings, what you're to remove, the possibility of future work and etc... Figure what it's worth for you to do it. Then you'll know more the next time. Everyones pricing can be different depending on what they need to make a profit and/or living. Someone may have better pricing strategy for YOU. So take the info here and do what fits you and your circumstances best. Jeff

Sodium Hypochlorite I assume. Using proper chemicals at proper ratios will give you superior results over high pressure cleaning. Sh is a very versatile product, and is in most house wash recipes. But it has limitations on wood, and I suggest not using it if you're not familiar with it on wood. Sodium Percarbonate is probably the safest bet on wood, especially if you're not accustomed to the various other cleaners. Use the search feature, lots of info here. Jeff

Ok, I was thinking these were typical high pressure nozzles that would be used,...which is why I was confused. But the suggestion of using an air chuck put it into perspective for me. I thought the numbers 0040 meant: 0 degree at 4 GPM. Thanks, Jeff

I see alot of people talking about downstreaming with 0030-0040 nozzles for distance. I'm not a downstreamer, but I am looking at adding this to my application methods, so excuse my ignorance when asking questions pertaining to downstreaming. I thought 0030-0040 nozzles were high pressure nozzles,.. if used on a 3-4 GPM machine? My understanding of downstreaming is it works off of low pressure,...so how are you guys making these particular nozzles work for applying soap? Thanks, Jeff

Don't under bid it. Lot of preparation in taking care of the surroundings from that distance in the air. Jeff

I've been in this discussion on another board,..and I whole heartily agree with the sentiment here so far. You can only guarantee it will be clean when you leave,...to many variables in the wide open spaces of Earth to promise or "warrant" anything more. Guaranteeing it won't get dirty,..what constitutes "dirty" and who decides it,...and how many times would a warranted cleaner go back for the road dust or something similar. Not to mention, lights, proximity to the street, what is under the siding promoting mildew problems. As I said on the other board, guys who offer warranty work are counting on the customer having a real world sense, and they just want a good job, and have no intention in calling you back in a few months to clean of spider crap from under the porch light. It's a selling phrase, which is fine,...just not for me!! Jeff

Always good to hear from those who've done it, whether good or bad experiences. Jeff

May be tough in something porous. But oxalic is a good choice. Jeff

For 200' downstreaming would it be advisable to get the next size down injector, as Mike points out? Is the long distance why you do this Mike? Thanks, Jeff

Thanks for all the replies. I will get something figured out. Jeff

Thanks Rick, but that is what I was considering. I didn't know if I could downstream it at correct ratio or not,...sounds like maybe not. Jeff

Yea, I could imagine the problems that would bring on, especially anything strong. But I don't strip decks,...I turn those away. I'm talking about using percarbonate and water for maintenance cleaning and removing simple graying. Jeff

Isn't whitewash just lime? (calcium carbonate) water and a little pressure should be able to feather it out fairly easy. Jeff

Actually, were probably a step or two below lawn care guys. There isn't as many variables in lawn care, and most anybody with half a brain can mow a lawn. But our services aren't easy and simple to perform, yet it's very easy to start up and start the destruction of unwary homeowners' property. This is why we as a whole often look bad. Jeff

Overall, I don't think so. Maybe legitimate as lawn care guys. But, I feel over the last several years I have turned my service into being seen as legitimate by the "locals". I don't have any competition to speak of in my work zone, I think in part because I set a standard here that is tough to refuse if you're the customer and you have to pick between my service or the guys who pop up every now and then. My services are more detailed than any of the guys that have started in my area. It's simple as this: They're in it for fast money, and customers have come to recognize these guys. As a whole though,.. I doubt it will ever be taken seriously, as long as there are readily available cheap machines. Jeff

Air tools like the one shown consume alot of air because they are usually being run for a long period of time. Just make sure your compressor will keep up. Very hard on an undersized compressor (Not to mention frustrating waiting for air). I only mentioned this because your used the term small. Jeff

They actually make an insulated pair, not sure about dry ice though. But anyhow I used to get the Atlas 370 locally but the place stopped selling them. I just ordered 6 pairs from a place on ebay. 6 pairs for $25.00 and free shipping. Jeff