Getting Your Fleet Ready for Winter Weather
Cold weather means icy roads and hazardous conditions for truck drivers. This results in the spread of de-icing materials, salt, and sand to better driving conditions – but these materials can have a negative impact on the condition of your fleet.
While worrying about getting a fleet wash may seem pointless in the winter (since your trucks are going to get dirty again as soon as they hit the road), seeking a professional fleet wash service is important in preventing rust and corrosion.
Once rust and corrosion set in, the repairs can be costly.
In order to keep your trucks in excellent condition during the winter months, here are some reasons you should consider getting a fleet wash when the temperatures drop:
Rust and Corrosion
The presence of rust and corrosion can compromise the entire undercarriage of your truck fleet, including components such as:
- Wheels
- Body panels
- Frames
- Electrical components
- Exhaust system
- Air-lines
- Brake lines
- Braking systems
- Fuel lines
As soon as rust and corrosion damage begins, it becomes increasingly difficult to reverse.
In addition to undercarriage damage, operating a dirty truck fleet can be dangerous. When the headlights, mirrors, and windshield are covered in grime, visibility is reduced – especially on dark winter days. This can prove deadly as reduced visibility can lead to fatal accidents.
These are the reasons why a commercial fleet wash program is an important way you can protect your trucks during the wintertime.
Fleet Wash Options in the Wintertime
When it comes to having your trucks washed during the wintertime, you need to find a solution that is efficient and does not interfere with your drivers’ schedules. Here are some options you can consider:
Drive-In Truck Wash Bays
Using a drive-in truck wash bay with power nozzles may eat up your drivers’ hours of service but it’s an efficient way to remove winter grime and ensure your drivers and trucks are working and operating safely.
Mechanics and Porters
It’s also possible to have mechanics and porters wash the fleet but their schedules may not accommodate the extra time it takes for a fleet wash.
Wash the Fleet In-House
You can have your fleet washed in-house or at a local truck washing facility. If you do, it’s important to remember the following recommendations:
- Avoid high-pressure washers – these can spray water into door locks and freeze them during cold weather.
- Avoid washing when temperatures drop below 25°F. Wash when the temperatures are between 30°F and 40°F and the weather is sunny.
- Look at the immediate weather forecast to ensure there are no sudden temperature drops.
- Use warm or heated water if possible.
Hire a Professional Fleet Washing Service
Commercial fleet washing services are performed on location and according to your schedule. An example of one in the Greater Toronto Area is https://www.canadianmobilewash.com/. With this service, your trucks are properly cleaned and you don’t have to worry about overspending on water, labor, and cleaning supplies.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Fleet Washing Service
Not only is hiring expert cleaning solutions convenient for your business but it will save you time and money on washing. Professional fleet washing services include the cost of water, materials, time, labor, and cleanup!
You can count on having clean trucks without breaking the bank or toiling away in the cold temperatures doing it yourself. Fleet washing professionals are efficient, experienced, and know how to use their specialized equipment such as pressure hoses, pressure vacuums, and fleet wash products.
Plus, their fleet wash products are usually biodegradable and won’t harm the environment. The service also handles the proper disposal of water while minimizing the overall use of water to reduce waste (and reduce your bill as well!).
In the end, whether you have one truck or one hundred, proper upkeep and routine maintenance will extend the life of your fleet – this includes keeping your trucks clean in the wintertime. As we mentioned, doing so will prevent the buildup of rust and corrosion that can cause irreparable damage to your trucks’ undercarriages.
Protect Your Drivers and Your Fleet in the Wintertime
Every fleet manager knows that there are always maintenance costs that come with taking care of fleets of all sizes. Between maintaining brake systems, replacing worn parts, and keeping up with wear and tear, there is always a dollar amount involved.
However, these important measures are crucial in protecting your drivers and your trucks and ensuring both are safe and can extend the lifespan of your service.
Having your fleet routinely washed in the wintertime is one way you can ensure this level of safety. Simple things like increasing wash intervals in snowy areas and pressure washing under the chassis every 1-2 weeks will do wonders for preserving your trucks.
