FAQ

Why Buy When I Can Rent?

Rent or Buy will always be a personal decision based on your business needs. However, there are a few things to consider.

Do you want a machine that you own at the end of the day?

<p>Obviously you will need to purchase if that is the case, although from time to time PartWashers may sell a rental machine to a customer upon conclusion of their contract.</p> <p>One reason to consider purchasing the machine outright is that it provides you with flexibility in how you use the machine. They typically have quite a long service life provided that they have been properly maintained with examples still in service well over 10 years with minimal repairs.</p> <p>Some small businesses may be able to benefit from <a class="costvsbehref" href="https://www.business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/30000-Instant-Asset-WriteOff" (subject to change) which permit eligible businesses to write the asset off against income during the first year that it was commissioned into service. Please obtain your own financial advice to confirm whether this is applicable for your business.</p> <p>Rental provides an opportunity to keep the asset off the balance sheet by managing it as a straight operating lease and thus the business can expense the cost as it is incurred. Again, please seek your own independent financial advice as this may not apply to your particular circumstances. </p> <p>The rental option will also assist with business cash flow as your costs will be spread out via a consistent monthly charge.</p> <p>Probably the greatest advantage of a rental agreement though, is that it relieves you of all the management issues that normally accompany operating any machine. PartWashers will do all the dirty work of making sure that the Washer is ready to work when you are, that the machine is being properly maintained and serviced, that chemicals are being used in the correct proportions and that all waste is being responsibly managed. It is by far the most hassle-free, low risk option regardless of your business type or size.</p> <p>It is also worth noting that although an outright purchase comes with a full 2 year OEM warranty, after that period expires the risk of repair transfers to you as the owner of the machine. With rental equipment however, the risk remains with PartWashers and provided that your business continues to operate the equipment in accordance with manufacturers instructions, you get to enjoy hassle free use of the washer with all chemicals, waste removal and maintenance being taken care of by PartWashers.</p> <p>For some businesses, it can be cost effective to rent a washer where the business spends as little as 1 hour per day manually washing parts. That of course ignores the multitude of other benefits that come from machine rental which would make the decision even more compelling. I have yet to meet a customer that has regretted the decision to invest in an automated washer. A very basic break-even analysis tool using Microsoft Excel has been included on the <a class="costvsbehref" href="documentation">Documentation Web Page</a> if you would like to play with your own numbers. Additional information regarding cost-benefit can be viewed <a class="costvsbehref" href="cost-vs-benefits" >here.</a></p>

Other FAQ's

Does the rental include all chemicals?

Yes. The Washer is provided with TurboWash Powder as standard issue and unless your business has specific requirements, there is no further charge. In addition, all servicing and fair wear & tear repairs are included in your rental.

Do parts require rinsing after cleaning?

Typically, no. Provided that you have not added additional chemical after the technician has serviced the machine and parts are removed from the washer and allowed to dry in a well ventilated area, residue is typically not a problem. If service cycles have been extended too long for your particular application or excessive chemical has been used, it is possible to get a light white powdery residue left on parts as they dry, however this is easily rinsed away. If you are getting any residue, please advise PartWashers so that we may investigate the cause and help correct it.

It's water based. Won't my parts rust?

The detergent used is infused with rust inhibitor which serves two purposes. It helps condition the inside of the washer which is mild steel and it also helps prevent surface rust on your parts. For it to work, it is imperative that parts are removed from the washer whilst they are still warm so that the latent heat aids in the 'flash' drying of the parts. Where parts are left to cool inside the washer, condensation will occur and may result in surface rust on your parts. If managed properly, rust is seldom an issue, the fact that there are mild steel washers that are nearly 20 years old still in service is testimony to the fact that the rust inhibitor works.

What Can I Wash?

Almost anything that fits inside the machine provided that it is compatible with the detergent being used and can withstand 80C temperatures. As an example, mechanics will often use the washer to clean their own tools at the end of the working week. Given the high pressure spray that is used, small parts should however be placed inside a basket to prevent them being washed into the sump.

Do I need to turn it off at night?

No. The SW1100 model and above all have a 24/7 timer which is set by the factory to start at 0530hrs and switch off at 1430hrs Mon-Fri. If required, it can also be adjusted to operate on weekends or it can simply be overridden for one off requirements. Once the set time next triggers, the washer will switch on or off as per the original setting with no further input required by an operator.

How long will a washer last?

That obviously depends on factors such as whether it has been properly serviced, the chemicals used and what has been washed in the machine (with resulting residue). There are plenty of examples where machines are still working effectively with well over ten (10) years of service and minimal repairs. Typically at around 10 years, you may consider a mid-life upgrade or overhaul.

How long do the chemicals last?

This answer also depends. However, for a machine operated on a single shift basis, 5 days per week, typical service periods are 4 weeks. This can sometimes by extended by adding additional chemicals mid maintenance cycle, but will depend upon saturation levels and the types of parts being washed. Extending wash cycles too far can result in equipment damage and can prove to be a false economy and thus cost you more whilst delivering an inferior clean.

Can I service the machine myself?

Provided that you own the machine, ABSOLUTELY! However you need to be aware that there are stringent requirements set by the EPA with respect to how you deal with the waste wash-water which should never be simply flushed down the drain. Intentionally (or unintentionally) polluting our environment is managed via the Waste Environmental Act 1970 and may result in severe penalties if you are found to be in breach of the Act. There are also other maintenance checks completed on the machine to ensure that the elements and pump are operating in accordance with set parameters, interlocks, RCD and that the drive gear is all operating safely. That said, these can all be carried out by a trained and competent person.

What is the cost?

There are obviously a number of variables that will affect price, however rotary washers start with a RRP of $15,830 (as at 1 Jul 22) with a service for a customer owned machine starting from $350. We can also provide rentals which includes the machine rental plus a full service schedule. This works out as a very cost effective option for most customers. There may be nuances related to your business that could influence those prices up or down, so the best option is to obtain an obligation free quote. If still unsure, we may be able to either wash a couple of typical parts for you or possibly place a machine at your site as part of a trial (subject to availability).

Why should I not use a cold washer?

Cold washers will typically use a variant of kerosene which is sprayed onto your parts. Do they work, yes. However, kerosene has a strong odour, will stick to you and waft throughout your work shop and it has a flash point of between 38C to 75C depending upon the product you use, so it is also very flammable. Add to those facts that many SDS state that it is a known carcinogen and you should be asking yourself whether it is worth the risk posed to your employees. Kerosene will be absorbed into the body via inhalation of the vapour that you will have created by washing your components, as the washer is very effective at atomising the kerosene being used. The product can also be absorbed through the skin via touch. Aspiration into the lungs is known to cause pneumonitis. There is a reason why smart workshop managers no longer use hydrocarbons for cleaning components within their site.

Better yet, see us in person!

We are a mobile business operating throughout Melbourne. We would be delighted to pop by when in your area. Feel free to send a text or use the above portal to arrange an appointment.

Why choose PartWashers?

We only use the latest machines, built to comply with all relevant Australian Standards. We will not be beaten on price or quality of service. Give us a call today to find out more about our range of equipment:

PartWashers

Hours

Mon : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm

Tue : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm

Wed : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm

Thu : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm

Fri : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm

Sat : Closed

Sun : Closed

Enquire Now