Eco-Friendly Car Washing Starts Here: Reclaim Systems Made Simple
Water reclaim systems are a smart investment for any car wash looking to save money and operate more sustainably. In some areas today, municipalities require it, or highly encourage the use of one. These systems collect and treat used wash water so it can be reused throughout the wash process. Instead of sending water straight to the sewer, reclaim systems allow you to recycle up to 90% of it—helping reduce your water bill, stay compliant with environmental regulations, and position your business as eco-friendly.
How Reclaim Systems Work
A typical reclaim setup collects used water from your wash bay and runs it through a series of settling tanks and filters. These systems remove dirt, oil, and debris from the water before it’s stored for reuse. Higher-end systems might also include disinfection steps like ozone or UV treatment to kill bacteria and control odors. This recycled water is then used in early wash stages like undercarriage rinses or wheel cleaning, while fresh water is reserved for the final rinse.
Benefits by Wash Type
Whether you operate a tunnel wash, in-bay automatic, or self-serve bay, reclaim systems can be customized to fit your operation. Tunnel washes often use dual reclaim systems—one for washing and one for rinsing—while in-bay automatics typically reuse water for everything except the final rinse. Even self-serve bays can benefit from reclaim, though more care must be taken due to unpredictable contaminants like oil and dumping of foreign chemicals.
Why Chemistry Matters
Not all car wash chemicals are designed for reclaim systems. In fact, some traditional soaps and waxes can interfere with reclaim water quality, causing odors, slimy buildup, or even clogged filters. That’s why it’s critical to use reclaim-compatible chemistry—products that are specifically formulated to perform well in recycled water.
What Makes a Chemical “Reclaim-Compatible”?
Reclaim-friendly products are low in harsh solvents, phosphate-free, and pH balanced (usually between 5 and 7). They avoid surfactant combinations that cause thick sludge or “black slime” in tanks. Advanced chemistry—like non-corrosive polymers—helps keep your reclaim water clear, reduces odors, and minimizes maintenance on pumps and filters. Today, many of our leading products are engineered with this compatibility in mind.
Avoiding Odors and Sludge
Odor is one of the biggest complaints in reclaim systems—and usually it’s caused by bacteria feeding on leftover soap and wax in stagnant water. Using the right chemistry helps control this by maintaining a neutral pH and avoiding ingredients that feed bacteria. Regular maintenance, proper aeration, and using the right mix of cleaners and protectants also go a long way in keeping your system fresh and clean.
Smarter Choices = Long-Term Savings
While a reclaim system requires some upfront investment, the long-term savings in water and sewer costs can be substantial. Plus, many municipalities reward car washes that reduce water usage, and customers appreciate knowing you’re doing your part to conserve resources. When paired with the right chemistry, a reclaim system doesn’t just save money—it delivers better results with less environmental impact.
Our Recommendation
If you’re considering a reclaim system—or already have one—we recommend using chemistry designed to work with it. From pH-balanced soaps to polymer-based protectants, our products are built to “play nice” in reclaim environments. That means no haze, no slimy tanks, and no odor issues. Just clean, shiny cars and smoother operations.