Is winter safe for water blasting? We’re here to explain.
On the whole, water blasting is one of the most effective ways to maintain equipment and structures on all levels, from residential to industrial. Pressure washing is mainly for residential applications, but water blasting or water jet blasting has commercial and industrial uses. At some point, large-scale equipment and surfaces need cleaning. Is water blasting in winter doable?
Water Blasting in Winter
Warming the Water Blasting Machine in Use and in Storage
One strategy contractors use to keep water in water blasting from freezing in cold weather is to warm the water blasting machine. When the water blasting unit is in use, the energy it produces could be enough to keep it and the water above freezing. If there is any doubt, the operator can let the unit run idle for a few minutes before using it to warm it up.
Contractors can also keep the units above freezing at all times by storing them in insulated or temperature-controlled storage units.
Using Anti-Freeze
Anti-freeze is another popular method to prevent freezing when water blasting in winter. Contractors can run anti-freeze through the system and drain it completely afterward. Anti-freeze is a sure way to prevent water from turning into ice at any point, especially in the Mid-Atlantic area, where temperatures rarely go below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using Hot Water
Some water blasting machines are designed to use hot water, specifically for water blasting in winter. Hot water does just as well at cleaning surfaces and can be even more effective at melting grease and oil off. It can also help kill bacteria. When water blasting with hot water, operators must use the correct PPE to avoid burns.
Hydrovac Use in Winter
Hydrovacs combine water blasting and industrial vacuuming into one unit. They can be used for industrial and commercial cleaning as well as hydroexcavation. Using hot water is best for hydrovac use in winter.
Work with a Water Blasting Professional
You don’t have to figure it out yourself. Jet Blast Inc. has the professional knowledge and capabilities to help you clean your industrial or commercial equipment and surfaces in the best way possible, no matter the time of year.
Contact Jet Blast Inc. Today!
Jet Blast® Industrial Services strives every day in an effort to provide our customers with the best service and equipment possible. Providing a safe and stable workplace has allowed us to keep a team of quality people, with most having a tenure of 15 – 25 years with Jet Blast®. With all that experience under one roof, we have been able to provide reliable 24-hour service since 1979. I believe this helps to set us apart from the competition.
Compare us! Let us make your job easier. If you’re located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Northern Virginia, or Washington, D.C., contact us by email at [email protected], call us at 410-636-0730, or fax us at 410-789-3907, and don’t forget to keep in touch with us on Facebook!