A Key Part of Machine Maintenance: Heavy Equipment Washing

A Key Part of Machine Maintenance: Heavy Equipment Washing

Regular heavy equipment cleaning helps minimize wear, boost efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your machines. However, washing heavy machinery isn't always as straightforward as cleaning a personal vehicle. To make it easier for you, we've put together some guidelines and best practices for effective heavy equipment washing.

Maintain a regular cleaning schedule 

The frequency of heavy equipment washing depends on usage and working conditions. For particularly muddy or dirty jobsites, you might need to clean every few days or at least weekly. Allowing dirt, grease, and debris to accumulate makes removal more challenging and can hinder operational safety and efficiency.

Designate a washing area 

Heavy equipment cleaning may be subject to environmental regulations in your area. Many localities have rules preventing contaminated water containing fuel residue, grease, and other pollutants from entering water sources. With a designated wash bay or station you can clean your machinery while complying with local regulations by containing these contaminants.

Options include building a permanent wash bay at your facility or equipment storage area, or investing in a portable wash pad that can be transported to almost any location. Whether permanent or portable, they both work by capturing the polluted water in a catch basin below the wash pad and then moving it through a water treatment recycling system that removes harmful substances.

Use a pressure washer 

For effective heavy equipment cleaning, we recommend using a pressure washer. It's far more efficient at removing stubborn residue like hardened mud, grease, and debris than standard hoses, which often lack the necessary pressure to completely dislodge grime. Consider a hot water pressure washer for particularly tough buildup, as it will break down and dissolve grime, grease, and oil more quickly and easily than cold water, helping you save time and water.

Wear protective equipment 

During heavy equipment washing, it's vital to use appropriate protective gear. Your crew should wear full length clothing or coveralls, non-slip footwear, eye and face protection, and gloves. Proper attire reduces the risk of exposure to hot water, chemicals, or contaminants during the cleaning process.

Utilize appropriate cleaning agents 

For machinery covered in a mix of organic substances (like grease and fuel residue) and inorganic materials (such as dust and gravel), specific detergents can enhance your heavy equipment washing efforts. Some effective cleaning agents include:

• Acidic pre-soaks and/or aluminum brighteners for oxidation and mineral residue
• High pH detergent to neutralize your low pH presoak & clean normal buildup
• Friction detergent for brush washing that will reduce drying & surface abrasions
• Degreaser for a heavy buildup of grease, fuel spills, and oils
• Concrete and cement cleaner for removing paving materials, lime, fly ash, rust, and water scale

Remove all attachments 

When completing heavy equipment cleaning, it’s crucial to take off any attachments and wash them on their own. That way, you can reach grime more easily and the entire cleaning process will be simpler and more effective.

For any questions regarding heavy equipment washing or general machine maintenance,  contact our team today!