Crystal Pure Systems

WATER FED POLE SYSTEMS


Frequently Asked Questions


What is the WFP system and how does it work?


Essentially, the WFP system involves pumping highly purified water from a tank up a pole to a brush. The brush washes and rinses the glass clean; the window is then left to dry naturally.


Why does pure water clean so effectively?


The main attribute of pure water is its desire to return to its impure state, and in doing so, to absorb large amounts of dirt from whatever it comes into contact with, making it an extremely efficient cleaning agent without the need for detergents.


Why do you recommend this system above traditional window cleaning methods?


First and foremost, quite simply, it gives better cleaning results. Additionally, the absence of sticky soap residue on your windows means that dirt will find it harder to adhere to the glass, and so the windows stay cleaner for longer.


Why should I change, I'm quite happy to continue as before? 


With the HSE introducing legislation that ladders should only be used for low-risk, short duration work, the use of ladders is becoming increasingly outmoded. Pure water pole systems are set to become a industry standard, and offer a viable alternative to the use of ladders. Even if the property or place of business doesn't merit the use of ladders for window cleaning, we feel sure that you will be more than impressed with the superior results that the water fed pole system produces.


Can the water fed pole system be used for other tasks?


Yes!  you can use this equipment to clean all aspects of a property or business. Signs, Shop Fronts, Frames, all UPVC panelling, canopies, guttering, fascias, garage doors etc. Not only this, but you can also access areas of a  property that might have been too difficult or even impossible to reach from a ladder. Top floor windows, conservatory roofs, windows above conservatories, in fact, anywhere that a pole can reach and wash, can be cleaned.


Is a pure water system suitable for domestic work?


A common myth is that pure water systems maybe no good for domestic work. The reasoning behind this may vary, perhaps a window cleaner may worry as to whether the general household customer would accept this new window cleaning method.


These reservations maybe valid to a certain extent. If you turn up one day with a water fed pole and give no explanation as to how it works or the reason for the change, then the chances are, some customers will object; they may be confused as to why the windows have been left dripping wet for example.


However, by taking the time to introduce your customers to the concept of pure water window cleaning these objections can be easily dispelled, not only can you offer your customers cleaner windows, but also cleaner frames at no extra expense to them or extra time or expense to you.


Do I need a van?


Van mounted osmosis systems are a popular choice, but not the only option, a trolley systems which is small enough to fit in the back of most cars can be a viable alternative. Pure water for the trolley is stored in barrels, and the trolley topped up as and when need. Our 35 ltr trolleys can typically last over an hour with a medium flow rate setting. So if you don’t fancy going all out on a van mounted RO system, a trolley system could be a good starter system.



  

 

The health and safety executive recognizes that it is unrealistic to expect every window cleaner to adopt new working practices overnight and also accepts that the industry accident record is low and is anticipating a period of transition to allow the industry to settle into the adoption of any new working methods needed to comply with the new regulations.


During this period the HSE will expect all window cleaners to consider the safety benefits of using alternatives to ladders and plan to change their work practices where possible.


The following examples illustrate situations where, provided a proper risk assessment has been done and equipment is properly used, ladder use may be appropriate during the transitional period.


Situations where ladders may be suitable:


On ground floor windows both internally and externally using ‘A’ frame ladders.


Internal of high windows in schools, shopping malls, atriums etc.


Up to and including 1st floor using ladders no more than 6 meters on domestic and small commercial properties.

  1. Removal of heavily impacted soilage. Eg. Builders Cleans.


  3. To access windows above flat roofs;

Where the number of windows to be cleaned at height is very small relative to the total, making use of more expensive access or cleaning methods unreasonable (eg. Less than 6 1st floor) on an isolated property.


On city centre red routes and in other areas where you can’t get the water fed pole van near to the building to be cleaned and trailing hoses would cause a hazard.


On properties where the use of a trolley system is not suitable because of site conditions (i.e steps or other physical obstructions)


On isolated domestic and small commercial premises. (i.e in rural locations where you may have, say only one two houses on a street/housing estate.


On domestic and small commercial premises where ladders are required to access above a flat roof and there is a limited number of 1st floor windows which are not above a roof.


In line with these regulations, water fed poles or even traditional extension poles are obvious alternative methods which could often be used to avoid the risk of working at height.


The key message of the HSE is that ladders should only be used for low-risk, short duration work.


New health & safety legislation (WAHR) - How the window cleaner can comply with the WAHR. 
Ian Greenwood - Health & Safety Executive.