The 2024 PowerClean trade show has officially wrapped up.
After the success of the 2023 event in Arizona, this year’s convention returned to Florida and didn’t disappoint. Hydro-Chem Systems was proud to be a sponsor and exhibitor at this year’s event.
HCS is distinctive in the sense that we are both a national manufacturer and supplier as well as a local Michigan-based distributor & service partner.
PowerClean presents an opportunity for us to educate ourselves as well as learn and connect with new and existing customers and distributors. From there, HCS seeks to strengthen its existing markets with detergents, pressure washers, automated wash systems, and service while simultaneously capturing feedback & responding to industry changes.
Our very own Chad Reiffer, who serves on the CETA Board of Directors, even hosted an educational training session for CETA members and contributed to the PWNA Fleet Washing Certification course.
If you weren’t able to attend in-person, don’t worry. This article will highlight some of the main topics we covered, new trends we learned, and other key takeaways from the event.
What is PowerClean?
PowerClean is the largest networking event for the cleaning industry, bringing together organizations from around the country to discuss industry challenges, ethics, best practices, and current environmental and political issues. The event also includes a variety of educational sessions, certification classes, a bustling trade show floor, and plenty of opportunities for in-person networking.
PowerClean is co-hosted by the Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) and the Power Washers of North America (PWNA). PWNA members count on CETA-certified companies for dependable equipment, service, training, and products. Every year, these two non-profit groups join forces at PowerClean, bringing more than 30 years of experience to improve industry standards and support their members’ success.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this event offers opportunities to grow and connect. If you’re considering attending, keep an eye out for updates on the 2025 convention.
Key Takeaways from PowerClean 2024
The pressure washing industry has experienced a host of challenges and opportunities in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Issues such as inflation, labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, environmental regulations, and political uncertainty have impacted businesses. However, the resilience and adaptability of industry members have been noteworthy.
Current State of the Industry
From our conversations with CETA and PWNA members, some strategies emerging in response to these challenges include:
- Diversification: Expanding into new services such as soft washing, fleet washing, parking garage cleaning, and even holiday light installation.
- Innovation: Developing cutting-edge technology to meet environmental standards and enhance efficiency.
- Pricing Models: Updating cost structures with better metrics for analysis.
- Training: Offering improved resources to streamline onboarding and enhance service quality.
- Safety Awareness: Increasing training to minimize risks and liabilities.
Emerging Trends in Cleaning Technology
Along with addressing some key challenges Several innovative trends stood out at PowerClean 2024:
- Ergonomic equipment designs for easier operation and maintenance.
- Battery-powered pressure washers for reduced emissions.
- Improved water conservation and filtration systems.
- Power washing drones for inaccessible or higher structures.
- Autonomous floor cleaning systems.
- Biodegradable, phosphate-free detergents aligned with California Proposition 65 standards.
Taking on Feedback
While PowerClean offers Hydro-Chem Systems a platform to stay informed on industry trends, connect with customers and distributors, and strengthen markets with our products and services — we also use this as an opportunity to gather feedback to adapt to industry changes. Here are five insights we plan on looking into deeper:
- Enhanced educational resources for detergents.
- Consistent quality control for improved product performance.
- Faster turnaround times and dependable delivery.
- Cost-effective chemical and freight solutions.
- A diverse product catalog to meet the demands of emerging markets.
Final Thoughts
PowerClean 2024 tackled some of the industry’s most pressing issues, but the overall state of the pressure washing industry remains strong. Despite economic and regulatory challenges, the demand for fleet washing, power washing, sanitizing and surface cleaning continues to grow.
A special thank you to the leadership teams at CETA and PWNA for organizing another outstanding event. Your efforts drive the growth and success of our industry.
If you’re considering attending next year’s event, please connect with us. We’d love to catch up in person.
