Questions for experienced operators

[864real]

I'm just a little under 2 years in and like to learn from those that have been thru things in SS and try to duplicate success and avoid failures. I'm someone that when I do something, I kind of go all in. Got 2 washes now and trying to buy as many as i can and looking to learn from experience. Here's some questions. Thanks all for those that reply!


What I wished I had done earlier or more of?

What I wished I had done later or less of?

What I didn't know or wasn't prepared for?

What Changes in the industry have you seen? (Specifically SS, not looking for changes like Tunnel washes came to market. More like advancements, tech, etc that improved or hurt things)

If there is any other wisdom, please feel free to share! Thanks again.

 

[AquaAce]

I’m 3 years in with one site. 4 self serve and 2 IBA’s.

I wish I would have added a 5th ss bay instead of area for dog wash (I didn’t put a dog wash in yet because I can’t get excited about it. )

I wish I would have switch chemical supplier sooner. (First one would never come to site and didn’t have any techs. New company is top notch coming once a month to do checks and tests)

I learned that owning a car wash isn’t a “side gig” like I thought it was going to be. I quit my job and am all in now.

I’m in the same boat as you looking for another site. Love the car wash business!

 

[864real]

I’m 3 years in with one site. 4 self serve and 2 IBA’s.

I wish I would have added a 5th ss bay instead of area for dog wash (I didn’t put a dog wash in yet because I can’t get excited about it. )

I wish I would have switch chemical supplier sooner. (First one would never come to site and didn’t have any techs. New company is top notch coming once a month to do checks and tests)

I learned that owning a car wash isn’t a “side gig” like I thought it was going to be. I quit my job and am all in now.

I’m in the same boat as you looking for another site. Love the car wash business!

Appreciate the feedback. What chemicals you switch to? Recently switched both sites to quest a different happy with the products so far

 

[AquaAce]

Appreciate the feedback. What chemicals you switch to? Recently switched both sites to quest a different happy with the products so far

We are in Ontario and went with Transchem and use some of their aqualux product as well as the turtle wax pro finishing products.

For me it’s more about the service I receive from them.

 

[Earl Weiss]

Sooner - Kleen Rite Products but No Pre Soap Or HP soap - Instead used their low PH Soap for both - Had Gelling issues with their PS and HP Products. Credit Cards with count up all bays and Vacs. Hand Held dryers in All Bays. Bill Accepters - All Bays.