WashdownEquipment

It depends on your existing water supply and how much pressure you need at the gun. Mains pressure is fine for general yard washdown, but if you're drawing from a stored tank or need higher pressure for dairy parlours or vehicle washing, you'll need a pressure or booster pump matched to your hose reel and nozzle flow rate. We can advise on pump sizing based on your pipe run and required bar pressure.

Yes, and it's a common setup for agricultural yards, vehicle washing and non-food-contact cleaning where drinking-quality water isn't required. You'll need a suitable pump to draw from the storage tank and deliver adequate pressure to the reel or gun. Just make sure any harvested-water pipework is clearly separated and labelled from your potable supply to satisfy WRAS backflow requirements.

Measure the furthest point you'll need to reach from the reel's fixed position, then add a few metres for manoeuvring around obstacles. Most trade hose reels are available from around 15 metres up to 40 metres or more for larger yards and dairy units. Oversizing slightly is generally better than running short, as extension hoses reduce pressure at the nozzle.

Purpose-built washdown guns, reels and hoses are widely used in dairy parlours, milking sheds and livestock housing where regular high-volume cleaning is essential. Look for equipment with food-grade or WRAS-approved fittings where the water may contact areas near milk production, and corrosion-resistant components to cope with frequent chemical washdown. Check manufacturer guidance if you're using disinfectants alongside washdown, as some chemicals affect hose and seal materials.

Wall-mounted reels suit fixed washdown points such as a single yard, parlour or wash bay, and free up floor space while keeping the hose tidy. Mobile trolley-mounted units are better where you need to move between multiple locations, such as a farm with several sheds or a workshop with several vehicle bays. Consider your water and power supply points before deciding, as mobile units still need a connection at each location.

Check hoses regularly for splits or wear where they run over rough ground or edges, and keep reel mechanisms free of grit and manure that can jam the retraction spring. Flush the system through after using any chemicals to avoid residue building up in the gun or nozzle. It's also worth checking pump seals and pressure settings periodically, particularly if the equipment sees daily heavy use.