Introduction
If you’ve looked into professional window cleaning for your business recently, you may have come across the term “waterfed pole system” and wondered whether it’s better or worse than the traditional squeegee-and-ladder method your previous cleaner used.
In this article, we explain how both methods work, the advantages and limitations of each, and why the right choice for most Manchester commercial properties is the modern waterfed approach.
How Traditional Window Cleaning Works
The traditional method involves a window cleaner applying a soapy solution to the glass using a washer mop, then removing it with a squeegee typically while standing on a ladder, a platform or a cherry picker for higher windows.
This approach has been used for over a century and, in the right circumstances, it works well. However, it comes with some significant limitations for commercial properties, particularly around safety, access and residue.
How Waterfed Pole Systems Work
Waterfed pole (WFP) systems use telescopic poles sometimes extending to 60 feet or more through which pure water is fed under pressure. The water passes through a series of filtration stages (typically reverse osmosis and deionisation) to remove all dissolved minerals.
This purified water is applied to the glass with a brush head at the top of the pole. Because there are no minerals in the water, it evaporates without leaving any residue meaning no streaks, no spots and no smears. No ladders are required in most cases, and the cleaner stays safely on the ground throughout.
Key Advantages of Waterfed Pole Systems for Commercial Properties
Safety First
Working at height is one of the leading causes of workplace accidents in the UK. By keeping operatives on the ground, waterfed pole systems dramatically reduce the risk of falls both for the window cleaner and for anyone passing below. This is particularly important on busy Manchester streets and in car parks.
Better Results on Glass
Purified water is genuinely better for glass than soapy water. Traditional detergent-based cleaning leaves a thin film on the glass that attracts dust and pollution. Purified water leaves nothing behind, which means your windows actually stay cleaner for longer between cleans.
Access to Difficult Areas
Many commercial buildings have windows in awkward positions set back behind signage, above canopies, or positioned in light wells. A skilled operator with a waterfed pole can often reach these without any special access equipment that would otherwise require scaffolding or a cherry picker.
Less Disruption to Your Business
Because the operative works from the ground without needing to move ladders around, set up barriers or close off areas, the cleaning process is faster and causes far less disruption. This matters for businesses that can’t afford to close sections of their premises.
Are There Situations Where Traditional Methods Are Still Appropriate?
Yes and a good commercial window cleaning company will know when to use each approach. Traditional methods may still be preferred for:
- Very heavily soiled windows that need agitation with a mop first
- Certain types of specialist glazing where brushes could scratch the surface
- Interior windows and glass partitions where purified water can’t be used
- Ground-floor windows where close-up detail work is required
For the vast majority of external commercial windows in Manchester, however, the waterfed pole system is the safer, cleaner and more effective choice.
What About Multi-Storey Buildings?
Modern waterfed pole equipment can reach four to five storeys on most systems. For buildings higher than this, additional access solutions such as rope access, a cherry picker or abseiling may be required. Any reputable commercial cleaning company will carry out a site assessment before quoting, to confirm exactly what equipment is needed for your property.
How to Tell If Your Current Cleaner Is Using Purified Water
If your windows are consistently streaky or spotted after cleaning, there’s a good chance your current provider is using mains water rather than properly purified water. Purified water should leave the glass completely clear once it has dried. If you’re seeing white spots or tide marks, ask your cleaner about their filtration process.
Find Out More
We use modern reach and wash systems on all of our commercial contracts. If you’d like to know more about how we can keep your windows spotless, take a look at our page on commercial window cleaning in Manchester and get in touch for a free quote.
