Tips for winterizing your car wash

Keep it warm and cozy

In winter, customers skip the self-serve bays and head straight for heated tunnels or automatic washes. They want to make sure their car is completely dry before it faces the cold. If you’ve got floor heating, now’s the time to check that it’s working perfectly. Once the freeze kicks in, you’ll want that heat on 24/7. No floor heating? No worries—you can still install electric heaters or space heaters to keep the chill at bay.

Give your underbody wash some love

Winter roads are brutal—salt, slush, and grime build up fast under your customers’ cars. That means your underbody wash will get more use than any other time of year. Make sure it’s in top shape, check for wear, and keep it working smoothly. Don’t forget to inspect all your wash materials too. Winter’s rough on cars and equipment, so swap out anything looking worn.

And since more customers will be using the high-pressure sprayers to blast away that winter gunk, check those systems too. No one wants a busted sprayer when the line’s backed up!

Dial in the dryer

A good drying job is crucial in winter—any leftover water can turn into ice the second they hit the cold. The best way to test your dryer? Drive your own car through. If you spot any lingering drops, get your system adjusted by a technician before the winter rush.

Fuel management—don't get caught empty

Heating during the winter is going to eat up more fuel—whether you use oil or gas. To avoid any interruptions, install sensors on your fuel tanks to alert you when levels get low. This way, you won’t be caught off guard by an empty tank and a cold wash bay.

Keep the water flowing

The last thing you want is frozen pipes shutting down your wash. Check your water tanks and filters for any buildup and clear them out before the freeze. If the filters are dirty, replace them. Keeping the water moving will prevent any ice from forming and causing major problems.

Test for frost

When temps dip below freezing, make it a habit to check your doors and bay mechanisms first thing in the morning. Frost can mess with the door functions, and you don’t want to find out something’s stuck when customers are already lining up.

The right chemicals

Winter brings salt, sand, and road grime, all of which can damage vehicles if not properly cleaned. Using stronger presoaks with high pH levels can help break down tough residues from road salt, while low pH washes can neutralize the alkaline chemicals used to melt ice. Additionally, drying agents that work well in colder temperatures are crucial.

Winter weather can be rough, but a little prep goes a long way in keeping your car wash running smoothly. Focus on the areas that will get hit the hardest—like your underbody wash and dryers—and make sure your wash stays warm. By staying proactive, you’ll keep your operation smooth, efficient, and ice-free.