The Purchasing Process: When to Upgrade the "Toolbox"
Cleaning and Restoration Magazine
By Rick Stonell
Purchasing new equipment for a business is a daunting task, but an obvious necessity to keep a competitive edge. Likewise, in the cleaning and restoration industry, certain technological advances have required restoration owners to "upgrade" their toolboxes and purchase new equipment.
While new technology has upgraded the industry, it's important to note that the "standard toolbox" for cleaning and restoration professionals has not changed significantly in the past quarter century. Dehumidifiers, air movers, moisture reading meters and extraction units remain the essentials for any cleaning and restoration professional. However, in the past seven years, new technology has certainly evolved these tools, shortening drying time and streamlining the process.
The single largest advancement of the restoration industry came seven years ago, when a new method of drying called Applied Structural Drying (ASD) hit the mainstream and revolutionized traditional methods.
With the invention of several new extraction tools, including the Water Claw, Flood Pro and Hydro X, new techniques were developed that allowed professionals, under the right conditions, to dry water damaged structures while keeping every item in its original place. These new extraction tools are able to extract 70 to 90 percent of the water content from wet carpets. Unlike previous methods, an entire structure could be dried and restored without removing any carpet, furniture or drywall.
Additionally, insurance companies have witnessed a reduction in the cost of claims as a result of the new techniques and technologies used to dry saturated structures without having to remove and replace them.
Tool Upgrades
Moisture reading meters are able to detect the water content in carpeting, hardwood floors, walls, ceilings and many other surfaces; however, the meter is only able to produce an accurate reading for the immediate surface to which it is applied. This means that a water restoration technician would have to place the meter in several areas along a damaged wall to get an accurate reading of the entire surface. When drying an entire home, this process can take several hours.
A new piece of technology - thermal imaging infrared cameras - can give a real-time view of an entire building in minutes, providing the user with a detailed image of all wet and dry areas on an entire surface. These cameras, introduced to the water damage restoration market about two years ago, have significantly aided technicians in the drying process by allowing them to more efficiently monitor the progress taking place and readjust equipment to enhance the drying process.
Dehumidifiers have also improved. In the past few years, low-grade refrigerant (LGR) units have become the industry's tool of choice, replacing the standard dehumidifier. LGRs are able to collect water more efficiently from the saturated structure than their predecessors, which can greatly reduce drying times.
As new technologies are added to the supplies list and old tools receive overhauls, businesses are faced with the decision to upgrade now, or wait until after a tool has been on the market for awhile.
Before the Purchase of New Equipment
While it is impossible to ensure that a new piece of equipment will work as promised, there are several issues to consider. Due diligence remains the single most important step to take before making a large purchase.
Reading trade magazines is a crucial part of researching new tools and a great resource for learning what role the tool will play in enhancing the drying process. Trade publications also indicate new trends in drying and restoration, and provide tips for keeping ahead of the curve.
All products are pre-tested by manufacturers before reaching the market. Using manufacturers' websites to research a product is important before choosing to add a new tool. Many times, a company will make information available regarding the equipment's results in the test lab.
Asking suppliers about the success of new equipment can be another great resource. It's important to build a strong relationship with suppliers, since these individuals are the "eyes and ears" of new equipment and can provide valuable information regarding its performance in the field.
Attending a trade show to see new product demonstrations is another means to better understand a tool's use. The ability to see a tool in action before the purchase will clarify unknowns about a tool's functionality.
Testing New Equipment
After new equipment is purchased, it's important to run a test trial, ensuring the new tool works according to specified standards.
There is no set time limit for this test trial, but an average-sized company should allow for several weeks of usage before ensuring a new piece of equipment is working properly. If at all possible, make a small purchase - only one or two pieces - of equipment and begin a test period. If the new tool meets expectations, start using the tool system wide.
Unfortunately, smaller businesses are at a disadvantage for testing equipment. While they often have to test new technology in the field, a larger business is able to develop an in-house test for performance before system wide implementation. In our company, we have the ability to test new equipment at our flood house, which is also home to our franchise headquarters and training. However, regardless of your company's size, you should perform tests and be critical of a tool's performance.
Implementing New Equipment
The research is done, the new tool has been purchased and it has passed the test period. Now, a business must properly implement the tool to maximize its effectiveness.
During the testing phase of new equipment, begin to educate employees about the technology and its ability to aid in drying saturated structures. The more employees know and understand the new technology, the easier it is to demonstrate how it works.
The next step is to develop a training program that answers all questions and provides enough hands-on training for employees to fully comprehend the new tool. Lastly, after a tool has been disbursed throughout a system, an "employee feedback" plan should be put into place that allows for better knowledge of new tools beyond the standard test trial.
Keep in mind that new technology is an investment - not just a purchase. It is important to do your homework and research a product before making a purchase. New technology can give you the competitive edge, as well as help improve the drying process - which is really the ultimate goal.
Rick Stonell is a 15-year veteran of the cleaning, drying and restoration industry. He founded 1-800-WATER DAMAGE in 1988 in response to the needs of customers of his former carpet cleaning business. 1-800-WATER DAMAGE is the nation's first franchise focused exclusively on water damage restoration services for homes and businesses.
SIDEBAR:
Ten Questions to Ask Before Purchasing New Equipment
Suppliers typically have firsthand knowledge of new equipment's early performance. It's important to have a good working relationship with all suppliers. Below are sample questions to ask a supplier before purchasing any new equipment:
How much amperage draw does the equipment require?
- Dehumidifiers - What is the amount of water the dehumidifier removes?
- Air mover - What is the CFM rating on the air mover?
- What is the purchase price of the equipment compared to the rental price you can charge on a job?
- Does this new equipment speed up the drying process when compared to other equipment?
- What is the weight and ease of transporting this piece of equipment from the truck to the job site (and vice versa)?
- Extraction units - What is the amount of mercury lift and CFM for extraction?
- How easy is this piece of equipment to use (i.e., user-friendly)?
- How long has the product been on the market?
- What is the average life expectancy of the new equipment?
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