Welcome back to the Lean and Mean Academy! Today, we’re tackling a popular question: Should you use a van for your pressure washing rig? Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, this is a critical decision that can impact your efficiency, safety, and profitability.
A Question from the Community
A viewer, DonValley243, asked:
"What work vans should I stay away from? Any recommendations on brands and models for building a pressure washing van?"
It’s a great question, and my answer is rooted in personal experience—and some hard-earned lessons.
My Journey with a Ford Transit Van
In 2017, I purchased a Ford Transit Connect van, envisioning it as a compact, secure setup for my soft-wash rig. Inspired by UK window cleaning vans, I thought it would be ideal for carrying my 12V system and a 40-gallon tank of bleach. The idea seemed perfect—until reality hit.
The Problems I Faced
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Bleach Fumes = Constant Headaches
- Even with a sealed tank, bleach fumes escaped.
- I had to drive with the windows down—yes, even in freezing weather.
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Equipment Breakdowns = Catastrophe
- My accumulator exploded during a job, unleashing a Niagara Falls of bleach inside the van.
- This biohazard spill damaged my customer's lawn and reinforced how equipment failures always happen on-site, never at home.
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Rust and Reduced Van Value
- Over time, bleach fumes corrode the interior, slashing the van’s resale value.
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Confined Spaces Make Repairs Difficult
- Working inside a cramped van with bulky equipment was frustrating and inefficient.
Why I Don’t Recommend Vans for Pressure Washing
While vans have their advantages (like security and compact storage), the downsides far outweigh the benefits for pressure washing setups:
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Ventilation Issues: Prolonged exposure to bleach fumes isn’t just unpleasant—it’s hazardous.
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Space Constraints: Performing maintenance or repairs inside a van is challenging.
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High Risk of Damage: Leaks and spills are inevitable, and when they happen inside a van, they can be catastrophic.
What About Window Cleaning Vans?
In the UK, vans are a staple for window cleaning due to the high frequency of service needs and the climate. However, window cleaning rigs typically handle pure water systems rather than corrosive chemicals like bleach.
For U.S.-based pressure washing or soft-wash rigs, the risks of using vans make them less practical for most business models.
Alternative Recommendations
If you’re considering vehicle options for your pressure washing business, here’s what I suggest:
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Open Trailers or Flatbeds
- Easier to maintain and repair equipment.
- No risk of fumes accumulating in an enclosed space.
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Pickup Trucks with Utility Beds
- Provides some security for your equipment.
- Better ventilation compared to vans.
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Dedicated Service Vehicles (Box Trucks)
- Ideal for larger operations, but ensure proper ventilation and spill-proof setups.
Build Your Knowledge: SESW Softwash 101 Class
Before you invest in any setup, equip yourself with the right skills and knowledge by taking the SESW Softwash 101 class. This hands-on course is designed to teach essential techniques, best practices, and safety protocols for soft washing, making it an invaluable resource for anyone in the industry.
Learn More: Build Your Dream Rig
Whether you’re starting out or scaling your business, the right training can save you time and money. Check out these resources:
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Book: Start a Pressure Washing Business Volume 1: Tough Love (Available on Amazon).
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Course: Local Domination: Zero to 7K—Learn marketing, lead generation, and SEO strategies to take your business to the next level.
Final Thoughts
Vans might seem convenient for pressure washing setups, but my personal experience taught me otherwise. From equipment failures to long-term damage, the risks and frustrations can outweigh the benefits.
Have a van setup that works for you? Share your experiences in the comments—whether you love it or hate it. And if you’re serious about growing your business, don’t miss out on WashCon Live, the top pressure washing event on Earth.
Equip yourself with knowledge, choose the right setup, and remember—the SESW Softwash 101 class is the perfect place to start for mastering soft-wash techniques.
See you in the next video!
