Naples Dry Cleaners
Improving Solvent Use for Dry Cleaners
Being able to get a few extra pounds of cleaning done with the same amount of solvent is something we all want in our dry cleaning operations. More profit for the same cost is almost too good to be true, especially in a difficult market.
By taking a few common-sense steps in your everyday operations, you can easily squeeze a few more pounds of cleaning out of the solvent you use. Every dry cleaner should read and follow the following tips. They are borne out of years of experience and an uncanny ability to save money wherever possible.
Dry cleaners should always inspect the machines regularly. Checking the button trap a couple of times a day and cleaning it out is the simplest of checks. As is checking the perforations aren’t blocked. Ensuring your operators know what they are doing is also useful. Button pushers aren’t really that effective, so each outlet should have at least one staff member that knows what they are doing.
Check the dust bag and clean any lint screens at least twice a day and always after loads that are prone to heavy linting. If you can, it’s always a good idea to regularly use a vacuum to clean the lint screens and recovery head.
While you’re there, remove and wash the foam pads on the lint screens. The edges of the pad should form a seal with the recovery head. Replace worn pads as soon as practicable and check the wire gauze for partial blockages and remove any dirt with a steam gun.
Keeping the machines free of blockages is the easiest of these checks, but they make a lot of difference to the efficiency of the machines. They can also prevent strain on the motors, lowering those expensive maintenance calls. A regular inspection by an engineer is essential in keeping everything running, but avoiding call-outs by keeping machines clean is a great way to work efficiently.
It’s also a good idea to regularly check the condition of the cage door seal, button trap seal, still door seal and lint screen door seal. See that the adjustable pressures are correct and doors close firmly to form a good seal. Keeping on top of the soft parts of your dry cleaning machines is basic preventive maintenance, but also aids in the proper circulation of the solvent, making it go that little bit further.
Make up full loads where possible unless you’re cleaning delicates, but don’t overload the machine. Keep to its rated capacity to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Never dry clean thick quilted items such as eiderdowns, duvets or puffa jackets as these will drink solvent for a not very good result.
Lint and debris that collects between the machine’s inner and outer cages will absorb solvent and affect drying. Use the backplate cleaning function if available, to keep interiors clean.
Finally, investigate solvent smells and machine malfunctions promptly. Any leaks will increase the amount of solvent you use and undo any improvements you see by using these tips. Dry cleaning is an art, but so is saving money. With the proper investment in time, the two can work together quite nicely.
