SRECO Flexible

by Jon Gotchis

How often have you heard the words diversify, diversify, diversify. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Well, this advice holds true whether it’s investing in the stock market or investing in your own business.

You’re massaging your chin and giving this some real thought. You pick up a trade magazine and attend some trade shows and notice the marketplace has plenty of equipment choices out there, but what is right for you and your company?

Here are a couple of tips and things to consider when heading towards the point of purchase.

A  popular method in today’s world of sewer line cleaning is the use of water jetting equipment. Jetters are very popular because with the right tool on the end of the hose they are great at relieving blockages, removing heavy debris and controlling grease and roots. They come in a variety of truck and trailer mounted units with various water pressure and gallons per minute of delivery for the water used.

Let’s address the gallons per minute (GPM) and water pressure pounds per square inch (PSI) issue since this is of primary importance to determining what size machine you might intend to purchase.  The size of lines that you will be able to efficiently work with is going to be determined by the water pump rating.

Remember that flow (GPM) relates to the cleaning power and water pressure (PSI) relates to thrust or the delivery speeds of the water thus determining the scrubbing power efficiency.  Keeping in mind that thrust dissipates quickly after exiting the nozzle.

Simply put, a 40 gpm jetter at 2000 psi will have the same thrust as a 65 gpm at 2000 psi jetter but significantly less cleaning power. Remember, the larger the line the more gpm will be needed. In most cases Jetters usually max out in their efficiency to clean pipe that is larger than 26” in diameter due to the limits of gpm. Be sure to match the water pump to the size lines you will be working with.

Tow ability in a trailer jetter is important. Find out the full tank towing weight and look for trailers with a sturdy frame designed with low profile characteristics. Driving a stable vehicle while transporting to a jobsite feels a lot better.

The more services you can offer, the more you can expand your business opportunities in a competitive and at times, a tumultuous marketplace.  To your success in choosing the right jetter for your business.