Truck Washer: What You Need To Know?

A truck washer is a person or a machine that is used to clean and wash trucks. Learn more with LazrTek experts in this article.

Truck Washer Overview

Truck washers are often found in truck stops, commercial vehicle wash facilities, or mobile washing companies that offer truck washing services.

A truck washer machine typically uses high-pressure water and specialized cleaning agents to remove dirt, grime, and other debris from the exterior of a truck. Some machines are also equipped with brushes, scrubbers, and other tools to provide a more thorough cleaning.

In some cases, a truck washer may refer to a person who manually washes and cleans trucks. These individuals may use similar tools and cleaning agents as the machine, but they rely on physical labor to complete the task.

Keeping a truck clean is important for both aesthetic and practical reasons. A clean truck not only looks better but also helps prevent corrosion and damage to the vehicle’s exterior. Additionally, many businesses that rely on trucks for transportation or delivery may be required to maintain a certain level of cleanliness to comply with industry regulations.

There are several reasons why it is important to keep an 18-wheeler tractor-trailer clean:

1. Compliance with regulations: Many trucking companies are required to maintain a certain level of cleanliness for their vehicles to comply with industry regulations. This is because a clean truck is considered safer and more efficient on the road, and it helps prevent the spread of disease and pests.
2. Image and reputation: A clean truck is a reflection of the company and its brand. Customers and clients are more likely to trust and do business with a company that takes care of its equipment and presents a professional image. A dirty and poorly maintained truck can give the impression of neglect and lack of attention to detail.
3. Maintenance and longevity: Regular washing and cleaning of an 18-wheel tractor-trailer can help prevent corrosion and damage to the vehicle’s exterior. Dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate on the truck, which can lead to rust and other forms of damage over time. Keeping the truck clean can help extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs.
4. Driver satisfaction: A clean truck can make a big difference in the morale and satisfaction of drivers. Driving a dirty and unkempt truck can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, while a clean and well-maintained truck can boost morale and provide a better working environment.

What Is the Typical Cost of an 18-Wheeler Tractor-Trailer Truck Washer?

The cost of an 18-wheeler tractor-trailer truck washer can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, type of wash, and size of the vehicle. Generally, a basic exterior wash can cost around $80 to $100, while a more detailed wash that includes the interior and undercarriage can cost upwards of $125 or more.

Some truck washer facilities offer different levels of washes, such as basic, standard, and premium, with different prices depending on the level of service. The cost can also vary depending on the type of wash, such as a hand wash or automated wash.

In addition to these factors, some truck washer facilities may charge extra fees for additional services, such as waxing, polishing, or special cleaning treatments for specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials.

It’s important to note that the cost of a truck wash can vary significantly depending on the location and market conditions. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices at different truck washer facilities to find the best deal.

What Is an Automated 18-Wheeler Tractor-Trailer Truck Washer?

An automated 18-wheeler tractor-trailer truck washer is a type of truck washer that uses an automated system to clean the exterior of an 18-wheeler tractor-trailer. The automated system typically consists of a series of high-pressure nozzles and brushes that move around the vehicle to remove dirt, grime, and other debris.

The truck is typically driven into a washing bay or tunnel, and the automated system uses sensors to detect the size and shape of the vehicle and adjust the wash accordingly. The nozzles and brushes are programmed to move in a specific pattern, ensuring that the entire exterior of the vehicle is cleaned thoroughly.

Automated truck washes are often faster and more efficient than manual washing methods, as they can clean the vehicle in a matter of minutes. They also tend to use less water and cleaning agents, making them more environmentally friendly.

While automated truck washes can be a convenient and cost-effective option, they may not be suitable for all types of vehicles or cleaning needs. For example, certain types of cargo, such as hazardous materials, may require specialized cleaning treatments that cannot be provided by an automated washer.

Additionally, some trucking companies prefer manual washing methods to ensure a more thorough cleaning. However, with improved modern automated wash systems and new state-of-the-art chemicals and detergents, the difference in cleaning capability between automated washes and hand washing will be negligible in 2023.

Which Is Better? An Automated Truck Washer or a Hand Wash?

Both automated and hand washing methods have their pros and cons, and the best option for an 18-wheeler tractor trailer depends on various factors, such as the level of cleaning required, the type of cargo, the location, and the time available. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of both methods:

Automated Truck Washer:

• Advantages:

• Faster and more efficient, typically takes less time than hand washing
• Consistent and thorough cleaning, with no missed spots or areas
• Uses less water and cleaning agents, making it more environmentally friendly
• Convenient, as the driver doesn’t need to get out of the truck
• Disadvantages:

• May not be suitable for all types of cargo or cleaning needs
• May not be quite as thorough as hand washing, particularly for heavily soiled or dirty vehicles that have not been washed for some time
• May miss hard-to-reach areas, such as the undercarriage, back of cab or wheels

Hand Washing:

• Advantages:

• Possibly a more thorough cleaning, particularly for heavily soiled or dirty vehicles but very dependent on competency of wash employees
• Can reach hard-to-reach areas, such as the undercarriage, behind the cab or on wheels
• Can provide customized cleaning treatments for specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials
• Can identify and report any damage or issues with the vehicle
• Disadvantages:

• Takes longer and requires more labor and resources than automated washer
• May not be consistent, with the possibility of missed spots or areas
• Can use more water and cleaning agents, making it less environmentally friendly
• May be less convenient for the driver, as they need to get out of the truck and wait for the washing to finish

In summary, both automated and hand-washing methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for an 18-wheeler tractor-trailer depends on various factors. It’s important to consider the specific cleaning needs, location, and time available to determine the best option.

Which Is a Better Truck Washer? Brush Gantry or Touchless?

Both brush gantry and touchless systems can provide a good 18-wheeler tractor-trailer truck wash, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some key factors to consider:

Brush Gantry:

• Advantages:

• Provides a thorough cleaning, particularly for heavily soiled vehicles
• Can provide a customized cleaning treatment for specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials
• Can remove stubborn debris, such as dried-on mud or tar

• Disadvantages:

• Frequently cause damage to certain parts of the vehicle, such as antennas or mirrors
• May not be suitable for vehicles with delicate paintwork or decals
• Can leave scratches or swirl marks on the paint if the brushes are not properly maintained
• Can use more water and cleaning agents, making it less environmentally friendly and more costly to operate
• Brush Gantry washes are frequently broken due to the massive number of parts and mechanical movements require constant maintenance and continuing  service calls to keep the gantry running.
• Brush Gantry reliability to operate continuously is questionable.
• May leave behind spots or streaks if the water and cleaning agents are not properly calibrated

Touchless:

• Advantages:

• Gentle on the vehicle’s exterior, as there are no brushes or physical contact
• Can be faster than a brush gantry system
• Can be safer for the vehicle, as there is less risk of damage
• Uses less water and cleaning agents, making it more environmentally friendly
• More reliable than a brush gantry with fewer moving parts resulting in minimum down time
• More suitable for vehicles with delicate paintwork and/or decals
• More economical to operate and more reliable than a brush gantry wash
• Disadvantages:

• May not be as effective at removing heavily soiled or stubborn debris
• May not be able to reach hard-to-reach areas, such as the undercarriage or wheels
• May leave behind spots or streaks if the water and cleaning agents are not properly calibrated
• Utilizing an RO rinse eliminates any possible spots or streaks

In summary, both brush gantry and touchless systems can be good 18-wheeler tractor-trailer truck washers. However, each truck washer has its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider the specific cleaning needs, the condition of the vehicle, and any special requirements before choosing a truck washer system.

If you would like a free consultation with a truck washing expert, contact LazrTek today or call us at (469) 536-8478.