Clean It Up

UK Window Cleaning Forum => Window Cleaning Forum => Topic started by: Village Gleam on March 21, 2008, 08:43:51 pm

Title: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 21, 2008, 08:43:51 pm
I've been using my newly installed electic reel for over a week now and I can report that it is a fantastic advance in our working method. I will never willingly wind in manually again.

The hardest part of our job for me is the physical bit. It's the hardest biggest brake on my earnings and after about five hours i'm very much the worse for wear.At six hours i'm clock watching and want to stop.I'm probably programmed this way because I can only work six hours most days because I have commitments to another business. I do a hour and a half of the other thing either side of the window cleaning, but window cleaning is by the far the hardest job I have ever done.The hour and a half after window cleaning which involves some van driving and loading is very much a welcome rest.

So right from the start I have targeted anything that makes life easier for me. I got a van mount when I had hardly any customers for this very reason figuring that the money would follow and from the start my reel was fixed over the tank feeding out of either side door. Next came the hot system which not only mean't that I could work faster with less scrubbing but I had the confidence to work faster because of the perfect every time results and zero complaints.

Even so I would still lay awake some nights the mucsles in my back killing and my biceps like pop eyes cutting the blood off in my arms. I worked it out that some days I was winding in 800m of hose (half a mile).

Anyway now I've got an electic reel that winds in in seconds. I can run as much hose out as I want (i pinched Ian Giles idea of throwing a harness over my head attached to the hose for the outward leg), and the winding in is a matter of moments with no effort involved at all.

So the benefits are;
1. I am less tired
2. I can do more
3. Planning hose outage is less of an issue
4. It's faster and saves time
5. I dread that 'just one extra job before I go home' a little bit less (helps motivation)
6. I earn more money (despite what you all think it isn't money that drives me)
7. It's so obvious, it's so simple, and it works so well, that there is a satisfaction every time i use it.

Surely I must have best system on the forum now? Don't I?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: NWH on March 21, 2008, 08:47:30 pm
Mr sol what hot system do you have,and have you built the reel yourself.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jeff Brimble on March 21, 2008, 08:49:30 pm
Yeh ok were all jealous  :o
First one I have heard of !
Do you also carry a manual hose - just in case ?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 21, 2008, 08:54:08 pm
what happens when the hose snags on a pot ? also what happens when the hose twists up, not knocking you just would like to know as this is a well annoying thing that happens to me.

Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 21, 2008, 09:02:14 pm
I hope your using superlight poles too to save all that effort and will of course be ordering the SL-X from Alex? :)
Winding a reel in is hardly hard work for me (stood at the back of the van with the reel bolted just inside). Holding thirty feet of pole over a conservatory roof though is hard work.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Moderator David@stives on March 21, 2008, 09:03:42 pm
Have you got pictures
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: NWH on March 21, 2008, 09:14:16 pm
I must admit reeling the hose in is harder work than cleaning windows,i`ve looked into this myself and am trying to source a company that will do a reel that will take 100mtrs of minibore,electric reel and hot water should save another hour a day at least lol. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 21, 2008, 09:18:07 pm
I reckon my seven year old daughter could wind my reel in.  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: d s windowcleaning on March 21, 2008, 09:21:15 pm
great stuff but im with windowashers (ian) on this with summer coming up and people putting patio & garden stuff out what would happen when you are 100 mtrs away and you catch on something you dont see .
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: NWH on March 21, 2008, 09:27:13 pm
It would still save loads of time if insured that the hose wouldn`t get caught up first before you start reeling in with electric.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 21, 2008, 09:31:01 pm
I can't see an electric reel being faster and still remain safe. Easier maybe.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 21, 2008, 09:42:58 pm
NWH
I've told you before an LPG on demand  hot system which I believe is unbeatable  because of its very low cost, perfect energy efficiency, and over all simplicity. I know you are excited about the system you are getting so I wont try to talk you of it.

The reel is the one we all use (I have the one with wheels, but the other sort(fixed) would work just as well and probably look better).

Jeff i still have the winder arm to the reel on the van if that's what you mean but i'm so over engineered it's never likely to be needed.

DJW
Yes going over cons roofs with my 17' xtel is hard work (I think 30' is bit of an exageration) and when I mention aching muscles this is probably the next biggest cause.
Dave
This works. Your staff would be less tired, especially on domestic work and work faster. Maybe they wouldn't pass the benefit onto you in terms of more jobs, but if their life is easier and pleasanter and the job therefore more manageable long term maybe they'll stick with it longer. no pics but it's very easy to do.

Daveshaw
You walk back to the van with the pole and hose just the same as you probably do now. You do have to make some effort not to get into tangles just as you do at the moment. You have to walk back the van anyway right? as I have the hose attached to me by a harness the hose comes too.

I've been using it every day all the time for over a week and it's fantastic. Do you think I'm making this up? Why?

DJW (Again)
Yes safety is an issue but just because you can't see something doesn't mean it can't be done. A week in and no mishaps for me so far.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 21, 2008, 09:49:54 pm
Staff? oh come now.
I'm not doubting you have one it's just that i really wizz my reel in by hand, if electric was to go that fast i would imagine all sorts of problems. Can you control the speed?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 21, 2008, 09:59:44 pm
Yes you can control the speed. Trust me even turbo terry's arm couldn't live with this, i'm driving away while you're still doing your funky arm piston.
 
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: d s windowcleaning on March 21, 2008, 10:02:42 pm
[.

Daveshaw
You walk back to the van with the pole and hose just the same as you probably do now. You do have to make some effort not to get into tangles just as you do at the moment. You have to walk back the van anyway right? as I have the hose attached to me by a harness the hose comes too.

I've been using it every day all the time for over a week and it's fantastic. Do you think I'm making this up? Why?


Quote
no i dont think you are making this up . its great stuff that it works  :)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Nathanael Jones on March 21, 2008, 10:16:29 pm
I want one,... how did you make it Mr Sol??!!
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: chris@c.m.s on March 21, 2008, 10:53:36 pm
I can just imagine a pensioner being dragged along the pavement with their foot caught in a loop of hose  ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Nathanael Jones on March 21, 2008, 11:00:38 pm
I can just imagine a pensioner being dragged along the pavement with their foot caught in a loop of hose  ;D

LMAO,... that shouldn't make me want one more,... but it does!!!

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 21, 2008, 11:21:59 pm
my scudo has "manual" windows
my s60 has electric windows
both work
one will be much easier and cheaper to fix when it breaks
if you like gadgets then fine  :)
is winding the hose in REALLY that much like hard work ???
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 21, 2008, 11:26:59 pm
my scudo has "manual" windows
my s60 has electric windows
both work
one will be much easier and cheaper to fix when it breaks
if you like gadgets then fine  :)
is winding the hose in REALLY that much like hard work ???
it's the hardest part of the work some times  ::)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 21, 2008, 11:40:31 pm
i only have 75 mtrs on reel (use a trolley) i would say it takes less than 30 secs to reel that in most times ,lets say 1 minute for 100 mtrs just to be on safe side.On wednesday i worked from 9 til half 5(long day for me but wanted thurs and bank hols off) and in total i wound the hose back in 7 times
phew  ::)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: [GQC] Tim on March 21, 2008, 11:43:56 pm
C'mon Mr Solubility, you've been mentioning this for the last 2 weeks or so, spill the beans so we can enjoy it too. If not, you shouldn't post how great it is in my opinion.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 21, 2008, 11:49:19 pm
ian please tell me that was ironic
my scudo has "manual" windows
my s60 has electric windows
both work
one will be much easier and cheaper to fix when it breaks
if you like gadgets then fine  :)
is winding the hose in REALLY that much like hard work ???
it's the hardest part of the work some times ::)
;) ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 21, 2008, 11:51:12 pm
ian please tell me that was ironic
my scudo has "manual" windows
my s60 has electric windows
both work
one will be much easier and cheaper to fix when it breaks
if you like gadgets then fine  :)
is winding the hose in REALLY that much like hard work ???
it's the hardest part of the work some times ::)
;) ;D
;)  :P
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Captain Scarlet on March 21, 2008, 11:55:29 pm
Mr Solubility, as Im only young I dont encounter any fatigue problems and can wind in the hose very quickly. But my dad feels it much more than me, he occassionaly works with me so could you tell me how you made it. Ive seen ones you can buy on other sites

http://www.jracenstein.com/store/Itemdesc.asp?ic=68%2D102&eq=&Tp=

but dont fancy forking out that much money!!! Luke
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 21, 2008, 11:58:26 pm
 IAN ww cheers mate

anyone waiting for pics or any practical help will have to wait until nat j has worked it out and built his own(probly this time next week then ;D) imo not worth the hassle for the type of hose we use,maybe on fire engines or oil rigs ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 22, 2008, 12:27:18 am
i think you should give the guy a break,

it does not matter what he posts on here, you all have a go and knock him down, i find it very unfair,

you all seem to follow on one after the other...

have you tried reading all these posts one after another?

I never ever get involved in posts which are derogotary to another person, as we all have opinions and  our own solutions to how our job should be made easier,

if any one is trying to pursue a method to make thing better for all of us... and takes the time out to share it,

then all credit goes to that person.

I personally, would find it offensive ,most of the comments which reply to the original post,

and im sure most would.  if the tables were reversed.

Is it not good that someone is showing a determination and drive to make our life easier,?....

wether or not the concept is practical for any given individual is for that person to decide.

if its not for you, then fair enough, but i really do feel, after reading each post from Mr Solubility,

the majority simply jump on his case for the sake of it...

and its not fair.

Gary.

Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 22, 2008, 12:30:37 am
I am only even honest with my posts, I asked a valid question with no reply, I am not knocking the guy at all I think it is a good idea he has, if it makes his life easier fair play to him.

Thing with a forum you cant please everyone, and everyone has there own opinion like it or not that is there right.

reading back the posts I cant see any that have been offensive
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 22, 2008, 12:39:10 am
not offensive, i would say .. mick taking and generally putting anything he says... DOWN!....

I Have read all his posts , and it is the same in each one, i am suprised he is still posting to be honest.. i know i certainly would not be.

opinions are one thing, and forums are made for that, but the guy is obviously a business minded person who has very good ideas and shows enthusiasm which he is willing to share on this forum,

which is a shame, as he may just as well be in a classroom, to be frank.

take a look at all Mr Solubiltys  posts... the replies are all the same.

i am not one for getting involved , but its a shame to read.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 22, 2008, 12:46:36 am
not offensive, i would say .. mick taking and generally putting anything he says... DOWN!....

I Have read all his posts , and it is the same in each one, i am suprised he is still posting to be honest.. i know i certainly would not be.

opinions are one thing, and forums are made for that, but the guy is obviously a business minded person who has very good ideas and shows enthusiasm which he is willing to share on this forum,

which is a shame, as he may just as well be in a classroom, to be frank.

take a look at all Mr Solubiltys  posts... the replies are all the same.

i am not one for getting involved , but its a shame to read.
Mr Sol can handle it, he can also give it aswell.

I agree he is business minded as are alot on here, his enthusiasm will not be knocked it will make him more determind to succeed.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Alex Gardiner on March 22, 2008, 09:09:06 am
Mr Solubility.

This is how I would produce a portable electric hose reel that could wind in 100m of micorbore (all of the current electric ones on the market are too small).

I would take a high quality variable speed electric screwdriver/drill and fit a socket attachment to then end of it that would fit onto the nut shaped spindle end on the standard hose reel, having taken the handle off.

This would give you ability to have full control over wind up with variable speed and instant stop.

My grandfather used to use this 20 years ago to wind his caravan supports up and down.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 22, 2008, 09:19:52 am
Like it Alex, then you have a built in clutch which could be set to whatever level you want - snag the hose and the extra tension would bring the clutch into play. Good safety point. Slide the socket back to allow release ot the reel for the walk out, then engage it again for the rewind. Variable speed too. Would need to be a good drill though, and probably need an inverter?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 22, 2008, 09:29:31 am
Cas-man don't worry about Mr Sol, wait till you get on the recieving end of his posts! Sure there's a bit of micky take but that's only because of his overconfident approach. He may well have come up with something here that's going to change the way we work who knows? Waiting for more details. :)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 22, 2008, 09:49:49 am
Like it Alex, then you have a built in clutch which could be set to whatever level you want - snag the hose and the extra tension would bring the clutch into play. Good safety point. Variable speed too. Would need to be a good drill though, and probably need an inverter?
you can get quite good cordless ones now, I may well give that a try as thats a great idea Alex, snagging would not be as dodgy either.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Captain Scarlet on March 22, 2008, 11:17:14 am
Quote
This is how I would produce a portable electric hose reel that could wind in 100m of micorbore (all of the current electric ones on the market are too small).

I would take a high quality variable speed electric screwdriver/drill and fit a socket attachment to then end of it that would fit onto the nut shaped spindle end on the standard hose reel, having taken the handle off.

This would give you ability to have full control over wind up with variable speed and instant stop.

My grandfather used to use this 20 years ago to wind his caravan supports up and down.

You would want something more permanent really, otherwise you waste time reaching for the screwdiver and placing it over the nut. Thats the only reason I havent gone for this idea, Luke
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 22, 2008, 11:53:28 am
Cas-man don't worry about Mr Sol, wait till you get on the recieving end of his posts! Sure there's a bit of micky take but that's only because of his overconfident approach. He may well have come up with something here that's going to change the way we work who knows? Waiting for more details. :)
gotta agree with that ;)
i think the screwdriver idea is simple and workable,but as luke points out thats probably gonna ta ke almost as long to attatch as it will to wind in half the hose.Maybe when i get a tank in the van later this year it might be worth thinking about this sort of set up as i want a reel that will carry 150m+ of micro bore
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: stevekennedy on March 22, 2008, 12:47:33 pm
there is a massive issue with any reel bolted to your van. The hose is so high when it crosses the pavement that it is a serious trip hazard. It is not enough to put out a sign. You must provide a safe means of access for pedestrians. If you use a portable reel you can have the hose flat to the deck when it crosses the pavement.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jon-scwindows on March 22, 2008, 01:05:52 pm
i have a good idea how to make them pretty good, with clutch safety, remote operation, with metal hose guides to make it safe and low to the ground, and so the hose doesnt run off the reel when reeling in, just need some time to make it, using the standard metal floor mounted hose reel, il put some picts up when im done, might even be selling them.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jon-scwindows on March 22, 2008, 01:08:18 pm
mr solubility, also be careful especially if using hot water that when your reeling in the hose it should not still be pressurized from the pump, as the motor winds it on tight and could expand enough to mess up the reel.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: stevekennedy on March 22, 2008, 02:08:39 pm
Hose guidess would maybe be a good solution. Where would you get suitable ones?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: dai on March 22, 2008, 02:57:46 pm
Instead of using an electric screw driver/drill, it could be run off an electric window or wiper. motor  12 volts off your van battery.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: [GQC] Tim on March 22, 2008, 03:11:28 pm
Instead of using an electric screw driver/drill, it could be run off an electric window or wiper. motor  12 volts off your van battery.

I doubt that would have enough torque.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: dai on March 22, 2008, 03:27:25 pm


I doubt that would have enough torque.
Quote
A small motor cycle starter motor then.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jon-scwindows on March 22, 2008, 03:54:02 pm
im not sure where you can get decent metal hose guides, but i was going to make some with bearings and aluminium tube, and steel plates so you can mount it flush with the floor and maybe another underneath if there are exhaust issues, then it will pull out close to the floor. I will be using a trailer though.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 22, 2008, 05:49:55 pm
im not sure where you can get decent metal hose guides, but i was going to make some with bearings and aluminium tube, and steel plates so you can mount it flush with the floor and maybe another underneath if there are exhaust issues, then it will pull out close to the floor. I will be using a trailer though.
I am surprised they dont already make hosereels for microbore/minibore with guides as that part is so annoying when the hose comes of the side and stops you pulling hose out (some will know what I mean there if not everyone)

Ian
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Wayne Thomas on March 22, 2008, 07:38:04 pm
im not sure where you can get decent metal hose guides, but i was going to make some with bearings and aluminium tube, and steel plates so you can mount it flush with the floor and maybe another underneath if there are exhaust issues, then it will pull out close to the floor. I will be using a trailer though.
I am surprised they dont already make hosereels for microbore/minibore with guides as that part is so annoying when the hose comes of the side and stops you pulling hose out (some will know what I mean there if not everyone)

Ian

They do make hose reel guide rollers on brackets to be fixed at convenient location points if you care to surf the net.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 22, 2008, 08:54:16 pm
im not sure where you can get decent metal hose guides, but i was going to make some with bearings and aluminium tube, and steel plates so you can mount it flush with the floor and maybe another underneath if there are exhaust issues, then it will pull out close to the floor. I will be using a trailer though.
I am surprised they dont already make hosereels for microbore/minibore with guides as that part is so annoying when the hose comes of the side and stops you pulling hose out (some will know what I mean there if not everyone)

Ian

They do make hose reel guide rollers on brackets to be fixed at convenient location points if you care to surf the net.
even if you take your hose out of the van ?

Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jon-scwindows on March 22, 2008, 09:01:37 pm
i know what your saying ian, i hate that especially when your winding in you have to grab the dirty hose and i usually use a cloth to clean it as i real it in but its annoying when you turn up at the next job and its all tangled up and stuck in the sides.
I will probably make mine with this, but as a seperate part, you could weld it onto the reel, like the off the shelf ones have, but im going to have one a bit shorter than the width of the reel centered so it can wind on completely and mounted flush with the floor.

You could cheaply use a decent electric drill, take a couple batteries along for it, and the right fitting in the end so you can simply push it on and off to reel in. Im going to have the motor mounted near the bottom with a chain drive.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Wayne Thomas on March 22, 2008, 10:12:16 pm
im not sure where you can get decent metal hose guides, but i was going to make some with bearings and aluminium tube, and steel plates so you can mount it flush with the floor and maybe another underneath if there are exhaust issues, then it will pull out close to the floor. I will be using a trailer though.
I am surprised they dont already make hosereels for microbore/minibore with guides as that part is so annoying when the hose comes of the side and stops you pulling hose out (some will know what I mean there if not everyone)

Ian

They do make hose reel guide rollers on brackets to be fixed at convenient location points if you care to surf the net.
even if you take your hose out of the van ?



Yes Ian, I can't find the website link, I appologise I can't let you have the link, it must be on my other computer.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jon-scwindows on March 22, 2008, 11:26:12 pm
redashe
not very friendly prices though, probably ott

http://www.redashe.com/Hose_Reels/Accessories/Roller_Guides.html
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Davo on March 22, 2008, 11:44:41 pm
Do you want to talk about marketing your electric hose so I can join in the conversation???????????????????????





Mark
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 22, 2008, 11:52:08 pm
jon what about the motors on caravan shifters,hi torq,remote units readily available(progressive too)  how about motor mounted outside van on sprung bracket,reel mounts on tow bar,rubber tyre /wheel on reel .Mount reel on towing ball(adapt a bike carrier)snap motor into place,wind in with remote
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 22, 2008, 11:55:22 pm
thats a very simple summary of some ideas i had a while back,easy to type it harder to imagine probly ::)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 22, 2008, 11:58:05 pm
Do you want to talk about marketing your electric hose so I can join in the conversation???????????????????????

Hi Davo,

Im really curious as to what exactly you do for a living, .. seriously, i am ... and i thought i would ask you before the rest of the guys reply.

Please dont think me ignorant if you have previously explained this , i have not read it.

Cheers.

Gary.






Mark
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Davo on March 23, 2008, 01:33:13 am
Do you want to talk about marketing your electric hose so I can join in the conversation???????????????????????

Hi Davo,

Im really curious as to what exactly you do for a living, .. seriously, i am ... and i thought i would ask you before the rest of the guys reply.

Please dont think me ignorant if you have previously explained this , i have not read it.

Cheers.

Gary.






Mark

Hello cas man, my comment was a flippant one on this thread.

What do I do for a living? Im a sales manager for a national direct sales company. But I have done other things.



Mark
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 23, 2008, 01:49:12 am
I realise it was a flippant , tongue in cheek comment,

I Simply wanted to find out for myself , before the other posts came in,

Can i ask you the most basic rule  in business .?....regardless of Promotions and Marketting.

Regards.

Gary.

Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: windowwashers on March 23, 2008, 02:09:13 am
I realise it was a flippant , tongue in cheek comment,

I Simply wanted to find out for myself , before the other posts came in,

Can i ask you the most basic rule  in business .?....regardless of Promotions and Marketting.

Regards.

Gary.


Trust no one
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 23, 2008, 07:14:28 am
Good question, good answer WW. Alan Sugar says it's sell for more than you bought it for.


On the conservatories so much was missed because of personal comments. The problem was that people putting out 20k of fliers a month were being talked down to by people who didn't put out any but knew better.

Price wise i'm closer to DJW than Mick, but my enquires are high (because I learned the leaflet lesson), and I have a trick(as you might expect) for speed.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Davo on March 23, 2008, 08:26:47 am
I realise it was a flippant , tongue in cheek comment,

I Simply wanted to find out for myself , before the other posts came in,

Can i ask you the most basic rule  in business .?....regardless of Promotions and Marketting.

Regards.

Gary.



Profit, turnover is vanity profit is sanity.



Mark
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 23, 2008, 08:47:11 am
There isn't a one size fits all.

What about all those internet start ups search engines communtities friends reunited etc that never ever made a profit, weren't expected to for years, but were and are valued at many millions and made the founders extremely rich without ever showing a profit?

The only template is to find a way of adding value to a product or service and then tell people about it.Applying this to window cleaning Is why I developed my signature hot system and electric reel because even an untrained operator can work very fast using them and get no complaints. Add this to a completly new way of marketing window cleaning (sic) and I think I might be  onto something.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 23, 2008, 09:17:45 am
Having been in this trade for a while, i can't see it myself. I can see a reasonable living being made from it but that's all. You can make more money by expanding and taking on more staff (with all the extra pressure) but your highly unlikely to become an overnight sensation to compete with those internet companies. It has to be just about the simplest form of business you can start up - you offer a service and use your body to manually apply it. Which is the biggest drawback to earning millions - there's a limit to what you can physically achieve in a day. (hot water and electric reel or not).
 Surely the easiest way to make money is to canvass and sell the round for three times the value and move on? Very little physical effort involved.
 I can't see Davo's involvment in it at all and can't understand MR Sols enthusiasm of how to get rich quick. His "signature hot water system is nothing new, just cheaper and barely above diy level, the electric reel - great but it won't earn you much more money and you can't market that to a customer unless your selling to fellow cleaners.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 23, 2008, 10:11:41 am
You are getting confused, gary asked what was the basic rule of business? We all had a stab at answering, and both the question and the answer were theoretical,as were the larger than life examples given.
You have a dreadful habit of putting your words opinions and thoughts into other peoples mouths.

Half of the fun of this forum is asking what if? And seeing where it leads you. This may seem fanciful, or more like showing off and boasting to some,to others it's a springboard to their own ideas.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Davo on March 23, 2008, 01:07:14 pm
Having been in this trade for a while, i can't see it myself. I can see a reasonable living being made from it but that's all. You can make more money by expanding and taking on more staff (with all the extra pressure) but your highly unlikely to become an overnight sensation to compete with those internet companies. It has to be just about the simplest form of business you can start up - you offer a service and use your body to manually apply it. Which is the biggest drawback to earning millions - there's a limit to what you can physically achieve in a day. (hot water and electric reel or not).
 Surely the easiest way to make money is to canvass and sell the round for three times the value and move on? Very little physical effort involved.
 I can't see Davo's involvment in it at all and can't understand MR Sols enthusiasm of how to get rich quick. His "signature hot water system is nothing new, just cheaper and barely above diy level, the electric reel - great but it won't earn you much more money and you can't market that to a customer unless your selling to fellow cleaners.


DJW a post well in keeping with the usual stuff you come out with, from replies you make to posts on this forum you seem to find great difficulty in compreheding what is being said.

If you cant understand something then it cant be so. You come accross on here as a bitter and resentful man. Being a window cleaner for many years seems, in your case, to be of no benefit whatsoever.

Yes its tough out there, yes customers are price sensative, yes most want value for their money. Yes you can give into that and charge less, wheres that going to take you?

The answer in the majority of businesses out there at this moment in time is profit.

Narrow margins rely on higher turnover, but the volume isnt there like it was only 12 months ago so where do you think lower margins higher overhead and static turnover will take you?


Mark

Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: frames to panes on March 23, 2008, 01:25:06 pm
Ah the gruesome twosome return for another go. I'm entitled to say what i like, same as you. If i don't understand something i'm quite free to say so and so i do. I NEVER say i'm right i merely question some of the ideas that are batted about on here. It's my opinion nothing more, if people can't take critisism then don't post in the first place.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Davo on March 23, 2008, 01:43:31 pm
Ah the gruesome twosome return for another go. I'm entitled to say what i like, same as you. If i don't understand something i'm quite free to say so and so i do. I NEVER say i'm right i merely question some of the ideas that are batted about on here. It's my opinion nothing more, if people can't take critisism then don't post in the first place.

Of course you can say what you like, but give yourself a chance and talk some sense.


Mark
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: edd on March 23, 2008, 03:54:39 pm
leave the bitchin out guys and MR > S plz post some pics of your gear asap EDD
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 23, 2008, 05:02:55 pm
Your right of course Edd. I was very surprised at the low level of interest in this but i can assure it does work and I am confident it will become the norm. To me it opens up all sorts of possibilities.
The simplest way is as described by Alex's grandad earlier in the thread. For this you need a deep 22m socket, and a socket driver. Both are sold by screw fix.

I'm going to lock the thread as it has all turned a bit sour. Here is a pic of these bits.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Jeff Brimble on March 31, 2008, 07:36:52 pm
Been thinking bout you today General. As a completely different angle on your problem, maybe experiment with  a light Algarde silicon type  hose uprgrade. Supple, cheap, no weight and reels in seconds.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 31, 2008, 08:09:46 pm
Hi,

i was reeling my hose in today... all of it....

and as it came in , it started catching on the van tyres...( i know about the things you can buy for corners.....but you can go on forever)......... then it caught on the bottom of a gate.......


so i moved it all onto the footpath , so i could  reel it in smoothly....

but on this occasion, because i had moved it, it started to kink a little and get itself in a tangle as i reeled it in..

still , not a big problem as i i used my left hand to sort it out as it came in.....


My question really is.... will the electric one make that much difference?

it wont stop the above problems,

can you turn away and leave it to reel the hose in?

not sure you can... so really is it just saving your right arm from working?..

Sorry for sounding negative on this subject Mr Sol.

But is that the only benefit it brings ? when i find reeling in very easy (apart from that particular example).....and quite good exercise. lol.


was simply thinking about your idea today.

Gary.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: joe.b on March 31, 2008, 08:14:15 pm
its just another tool to make things easier and maybe a little faster, i know i hate reeling it in, but some may not, just like people like a trigger on a pole and some people dont.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 31, 2008, 08:17:55 pm
I'm glad you're thinking Jeff- or if I can stimulate some thought. I have been using the electric reel as shown on here and finding it really good. A far more advanced method is in development

I must admitt though Jeff that I had hoped someone, anyone, would come on here and say I've tried this and it works, thanks Mr Sol.

I realise from comments made that what I have suggested is so simple that it is laughable, but the fact is it works extremly well. The more sophisticated method will be ready very soon, I'll email you a photo.

Gazzasp8
yes it makes a difference, I don't get those problems, walk back the van with hose tap, make sure nothing will snag. If you used it you would know.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 31, 2008, 08:57:31 pm
this is a break down of one working day last week(tues 25th march)
sad as it sounds i actually timed myself reeling in  ::)
i did it for the whole day at every job,timing is for the time spent turning the reel
time does not include walking the tap back to the van and laying the hose out ( i do this anyway and so would anyone using an electric reel,it is the best method imo of making reeling in easier and no one wants their tap/shrader bouncing along the ground)
all times are rounded UP to nearest 5 seconds
on most jobs only about 75mtrs or so were off the reel
job 1; 25 secs
job 2; 25 secs
job 3; 35 secs
job 4; 55 secs
job 5; 30 secs
job 6; 20 secs
job 7; 20 secs
jobs 8 + 9 ; 1 min 10 secs
job 10 ; 25 secs
job 11 ; 35 secs
job 12 ; 15 secs
thats it,nothing really scientific just timed off the sweep hand on my watch
not looking to prove anything it was just something to help pass the day :)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: NWH on March 31, 2008, 09:00:43 pm
That`s not that long really is it but it feels a lot more than that after lunchtime.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: L.J.Thorpe on March 31, 2008, 09:13:27 pm
5 mins 35 secs total
average 28 secs approx.
but that is only one day mind
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: d s windowcleaning on March 31, 2008, 09:25:50 pm
Been thinking bout you today General. As a completely different angle on your problem, maybe experiment with a light Algarde silicon type hose uprgrade. Supple, cheap, no weight and reels in seconds.
so true jeff i will second that  ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 31, 2008, 10:02:18 pm


Jeff always has good ideas, but he is thinking about a trolley system, this is a van mount and we have already had the disscusion about varistreams and bore.

I know that in a few years time the majority will have a powered reel because the machine does all the work.Is it really that hard to figure out?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 31, 2008, 10:24:44 pm
i dont think reeling in the hose is hard at all,

its an easy part of the job, as L.j said , it takes seconds and not a hard, daunting task,...

mind you it would be a brilliant idea for letting the dog out on the lead for a walk in the park while you read the paper in the van.....

then when you are ready to go... simply " reel " the dog back in... ;D


Now there is an idea Mr Sol.  :)
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: Village Gleam on March 31, 2008, 10:32:04 pm
In as much as no one is backing me up I think that you gazz and Mr Thorpe have won this argument. But that does not mean that you are right.

I work under constant pressure and at speed. I get tired, a machine doesn't.
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: geefree on March 31, 2008, 10:39:21 pm
,...

mind you it would be a brilliant idea for letting the dog out on the lead for a walk in the park while you read the paper in the van.....

then when you are ready to go... simply " reel " the dog back in... ;D


i was not taking the mick mr sol.... i just dont find it hard reeliing it in.... it is a good idea... i just find what i do ok...


dont you like the dog in the park bit though .


Now there is an idea Mr Sol.  :)
Quote
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: joe.b on March 31, 2008, 10:40:00 pm
i think its a great idea, i was going to have a bash at doing one from scratch myself but if youve got a few pics of yours then maybe can just copy yours   ;D ;D
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: d s windowcleaning on March 31, 2008, 11:16:03 pm
In as much as no one is backing me up I think that you gazz and Mr Thorpe have won this argument. But that does not mean that you are right.

I work under constant pressure and at speed. I get tired, a machine doesn't.
pressure you are only cleaning windows so how are you under pressure?
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: matt on March 31, 2008, 11:27:46 pm
In as much as no one is backing me up I think that you gazz and Mr Thorpe have won this argument. But that does not mean that you are right.

I work under constant pressure and at speed. I get tired, a machine doesn't.
pressure you are only cleaning windows so how are you under pressure?

one exerts pressure on one's self to acheive greatness
Title: Re: Benefits of an Electic Reel
Post by: paul D long on April 01, 2008, 05:55:51 am
Sounds good to me though my biggest wind up is the wife. ;D