Car Wash News & Articles

Security is important to all business owners. However, car washes, by design, have their own set of security challenges. As crime rates continue to increase, owners must look at all aspects of security at their places of business.

If you have attended a trade show this year or had a visit from your equipment distributor, then you know: friction is making resurgence. Thirty years ago, most in-bay friction machines (rollovers) used some sort of brush or bristle to clean a vehicle. Today, new and more sophisticated friction washing materials have emerged, giving operators and customers a new and improved wash experience.

Using the experience and know-how of industry veterans makes sense in launching any business, especially for an investor with other business ventures to manage. Jeff Cawley, co-owner with partner Craig Brogden, understood that when he started up Creedmoor Commons Car Wash in Creedmoor, NC.

While many carwash investors/operators endeavor to have multiple locations, management can be a challenge. First, it is important to develop an operations plan that directs you and your employees on the day-to-day operations of your washes. This is critical as you are sharing your time among multiple locations instead of concentrating on one.

In Part I of this two-part article (see Auto Laundry News, June 2006), we limited our discussion to the bay equipment and the auto cashier. This month, we wander a little further afield — into the equipment room, as your in-bay automatic probably has ancillary equipment that also needs to be checked.

Most often, creating a maintenance schedule for you or your staff to follow can prevent the downtime. In addition, becoming more familiar with your equipment and understanding how to make repairs yourself will save you money and keep downtime to a minimum. The first step is to read the equipment manual that came with your automatic.