How to clean windows with a water-fed pole system
|Mohammed Sohag
To clean windows with a water-fed pole system, you must use a multi-stage filtration unit like the Rhodi 0 Flow to produce 0-TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) water. The process involves scrubbing the glass with a specialized brush to agitate dirt, followed by a top-to-bottom rinse to evacuate debris. For professional results, ensure a consistent 0.5 GPM flow rate and monitor your water purity; while DI-only systems are limited to soft water, a 4-stage RODI system allows you to maintain a spot-free finish (under 10 ppm) even in hard water areas.
The Pure Water Principle
In traditional window cleaning, you use soap and a squeegee to remove dirt. With a water-fed pole (WFP) system, the water is the cleaning agent. The Rhodi 0 Flow removes 98% of minerals through its RO membrane, and the remaining minerals are polished with resin, making the water "hungry." It physically attracts and absorbs dirt, then dries perfectly clear without the need for manual drying.
The Step-by-Step Professional Technique
1. The Pre-Flight Check (TDS Audit)
Before you lift the pole, check your water.
- Connect your Rhodi 0 Flow to the tap.
- Use a handheld meter to ensure you are hitting the 10 ppm rule. If your output is under 10 ppm, you are guaranteed a spot-free finish.
- Ensure your flow is at the professional 0.5 GPM standard to provide enough lubrication for the brush.
2. Scrubbing: Agitation is Key
Start at the top of the window.
- Use the brush bristles to agitate the dirt on the glass, frames, and sills.
- The Frame Rule: Always scrub the top frame first. If you don't, dirty water trapped in the seal will "bleed" down onto your clean glass later.
3. The Rinse: Top to Bottom
Once the dirt is loose, pull the brush 2–4 inches away from the glass.
- Starting at the top, let the pure water flow over the pane in a "curtain" motion.
- Work your way down slowly, ensuring the water carries all the suspended debris off the bottom sill.
Because the Rhodi 0 Flow is a 49-inch tall, high-output system, you’ll have the pressure needed to maintain a strong rinse even at 3 or 4 stories.
Logistics for Commercial Efficiency
Using a water fed pole is about speed and safety. You can maintain your footing while the Rhodi 0 Flow performs the task.
- Managing the Hose: Keep your hose line straight to avoid kinks that drop your flow rate.
- Angle of Attack: Don't work directly under the window. Stand back so the pole has a slight angle; this makes the brush more effective and saves your neck from strain.
- The 50 lb Advantage: The Rhodi 0 Flow is heavy enough to remain stable while you work but portable enough to move around a large commercial site as you progress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Moving Too Fast: If you don't rinse thoroughly, "ghosting" or spots will appear. Trust the 0.5 GPM flow to do its job.
- Neglecting Maintenance: Check your sediment and carbon filters every 2–4 months. A clogged filter means lower pressure at the pole, which leads to poor rinsing.
Using Dirty Brushes: Store your brush in a clean bag or a bucket. If the bristles pick up sand from the van floor, you risk scratching the glass.
The Verdict: Better, Faster, Safer
Switching to a water fed pole system powered by the Rhodi 0 Flow isn't just an equipment upgrade—it’s a business strategy. It allows you to bid on larger jobs, finish them in half the time, and maintain a lifetime warranty on your primary asset.
Ready to reach higher?