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Smart Systems: Working Hand Sprayers, Backpacks Are Key to Better Business in the Long Run
1 Feb, 2008 By: Andrew Greess Pest Management ProfessionalMost pest management professionals (PMPs) use hand sprayers and/or backpack sprayers. Are you doing everything possible to ensure you are getting maximum results and value from your sprayer investments? Here are some suggestions:
Andrew Greess
START WITH THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
For a hand sprayer, use a quality stainless steel model. For a backpack, select a quality product that can stand up to long hours, harsh chemicals and rough treatment. Pay particular attention to the pump mechanism and spray wand. Ensure replacement parts are available.
TRAIN YOUR TECHNICIANS
Check it out: Technicians should do quick equipment checks before starting their routes. Perform visual inspections, then pressurize the units and spray to ensure proper operation.
Take it easy: Do not overpressurize sprayers. Overpressurizing will cause parts to fail. If your backpacks aren't spraying, don't pump them up more. You will break them, and a $3 O-ring replacement becomes an expensive repair.
Take the pressure off: Leaving sprayers under pressure for extended periods will reduce the life of components such as hoses, gaskets, O-rings and other parts. Release pressure after each stop. Backpack sprayers in particular can achieve much longer lives by practicing this simple action.
They're spray wands, not crowbars: Our repair shop sees spray wands and tips that are damaged from opening cabinet doors, being dragged on the ground and other inappropriate uses.
Follow manufacturer directions for cleaning tips: This usually includes using soft-bristle brushes and mild cleaners. Wire brushes, pocketknives and other ad-hoc cleaning techniques can destroy tips.
Do not expose your sprayers to freezing temperatures. Enough said.
Check those filters: Make sure technicians are inspecting and cleaning filters to prevent clogged tips and debris that can damage sprayers.
Keep 'em clean: Chemical and debris build up in sprayers. Eventually this debris will cause problems. Rinse sprayers out with clean water. Run clean water through hoses, wands and tips.
Report it: Make sure technicians report problems. We often see techs working with equipment that needs service. Instead of asking for help, they push the equipment past the breaking point, turning a small repair into a major rebuild.
Hand sprayers and backpacks are critical to your company's success. Invest the time to train employees and properly maintain equipment. Follow up to ensure it gets done. This will keep employees productive and on schedule, your customers happy and your repair expenses to a minimum.
You can reach Greess, president of Quality Equipment & Spray, at andrew@qspray.com.
Please send any technical comments or questions to our webmaster.